House Bill No. 6442 is designed to enhance the recognition and support for veterans and military personnel in Connecticut. It establishes November as Veterans' Month, with the Governor tasked to proclaim this annually. The bill modifies the motor vehicle registration process for veterans and their families, allowing for special registration certificates and number plates that honor their service, including provisions for women veterans and members of the Hmong Laotian special guerilla units. Additionally, it mandates the issuance of commemorative number plates for the Puerto Rican members of the Sixty-Fifth Infantry Regiment, known as "The Borinqueneers," starting January 1, 2026, with a fee structure that supports bilingual services for veterans. The bill also includes provisions for waiving fees for motor vehicle operator's license renewals for veterans attending specific events and allows for reimbursement of membership charges for the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

Moreover, the bill introduces several amendments to improve educational support for military-connected students, ensuring they can transition smoothly into new schools and clarifying residency requirements. It also revises nursing home admission processes for veterans, allowing service-connected veterans to bypass waiting lists and ensuring that nursing homes do not discriminate against indigent applicants. The bill includes provisions for the establishment of awards for members of the armed forces and mandates the evaluation of dental services for veterans. Overall, HB 6442 aims to streamline processes and enhance the support and recognition of veterans and their families in Connecticut, with most provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 27-78
VA Joint Favorable: 27-78
File No. 55: 27-78
File No. 820: 14-20b, 14-19a, 14-11k, 27-20, 10-76d