This bill outlines a budget for the Minnesota Department of Military Affairs and the Department of Veterans Affairs for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027, focusing on various veteran services and programs. It includes provisions for creating a memorial plaque for Gold Star and Blue Star families at the State Capitol, establishing an Advisory Task Force for veterans of secret guerilla units in Laos, and requiring the commissioner of veterans affairs to develop a comprehensive suicide prevention plan for veterans. The bill also specifies funding allocations for state veterans cemeteries, service organizations, honor guards, and the Minnesota GI Bill, among other initiatives aimed at enhancing support for veterans and their families.

Additionally, the bill amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes, including increasing the bonding limit for the State Armory Building Commission from $15 million to $45 million and introducing a stipend for service members in state active service to address pension inequities. It establishes a new definition for "veteran of the secret war in Laos," allowing access to benefits for those who served in specific operations. The bill also facilitates electronic access to the MAXIS database for the commissioner of veterans affairs to connect veterans with resources, updates eligibility criteria for burial fees and educational assistance, and ensures that surviving spouses of deceased veterans retain their benefits regardless of remarriage. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen the support system for veterans and their families in Minnesota through targeted funding and strategic initiatives.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 197.6091
1st Engrossment: 13.461, 192.49, 193.143, 197.065, 197.236, 197.75, 197.791