This bill aims to eliminate the burial fee for spouses and dependents of eligible veterans in state veterans cemeteries. It amends Minnesota Statutes by prohibiting the establishment of a fee schedule for the interment of these individuals, which previously allowed for fees to be set that would cover the costs of interment, excluding the plot value. Additionally, the bill removes provisions that allowed for the waiver or reduction of burial fees for indigent eligible persons, thereby ensuring that no fees will be charged for the burial of eligible spouses and dependents.

Furthermore, the bill includes an appropriation of funds from the general fund to the commissioner of veterans affairs to cover the uncompensated burial costs for these eligible dependents. The specific amounts for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 are to be determined. This legislative change reflects a commitment to supporting veterans' families by alleviating the financial burden associated with burial costs.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 190.19, 197.236