The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5406, aims to honor the wartime service of certain veterans and reserve members of the armed forces by establishing a ribbon and medal award. The bill modifies Section 27-73e of the general statutes, which is set to be repealed and replaced with new language effective October 1, 2026. The new provisions specify that the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, in collaboration with the Adjutant General, will award the ribbon and medal to veterans who were either residents of the state at the time of their active duty during wartime or are currently domiciled in the state. Additionally, former members of reserve components who were honorably discharged and meet similar residency or domicile criteria will also be eligible for the award.

The bill also includes a technical revision by replacing the word "who" with "and" in the eligibility criteria for former reserve members. Furthermore, it mandates the adoption of regulations to outline the design process for the ribbon and medal, identify eligible recipients, and establish distribution procedures. The costs associated with the awards will be covered by funds from the military assistance account within the Military Department, and posthumous awards may be granted to veterans who passed away on or after November 12, 1918. The act aims to ensure that the contributions of these service members are recognized and honored appropriately.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 27-73e