The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 197.447, to expand the definition of "veteran" to include additional categories of individuals. Specifically, it now recognizes not only those who have served honorably in the armed forces after active duty but also individuals who were naturalized under the federal Hmong Veterans' Naturalization Act of 2000 and those who served honorably with special guerrilla units or irregular forces in Laos during the Vietnam War era. This expansion aims to ensure that more individuals who have contributed to the U.S. military efforts are recognized as veterans.

Additionally, the bill establishes an advisory task force, consisting of up to seven members knowledgeable about the Secret War in Laos. This task force will include veterans from secret guerrilla units, academics, and community members, and will provide guidance to the commissioner of veterans affairs on the criteria for determining veteran status under the newly expanded definition. This initiative seeks to enhance the recognition and support for veterans who may have previously been overlooked.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 197.447