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.

Additionally, the bill amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes, including changes to military personnel compensation during state active service and increasing the bonding limit for the State Armory Building Commission from $15 million to $45 million. It introduces a pension offset stipend for service members and establishes grant programs to support veterans and their families, focusing on mental health services, educational assistance, and community outreach. The bill also creates a new definition for "veteran of the secret war in Laos," updates eligibility criteria for burial fees and educational assistance, and allows the commissioner of veterans affairs to access the MAXIS database to connect veterans with resources, ensuring informed consent is obtained.

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