This bill aims to enhance support for veterans and their families in Minnesota by establishing a budget for the Department of Military Affairs and the Department of Veterans Affairs. It includes appropriations for various programs, such as the creation of a memorial plaque for Gold Star and Blue Star families at the State Capitol, the formation of a Veterans of Secret Guerilla Units and Irregular Forces in Laos Advisory Task Force, and a mandate for the commissioner of veterans affairs to develop a comprehensive suicide prevention plan for veterans. The bill also specifies funding allocations for state veterans cemeteries, veterans service organizations, honor guards, and the Minnesota GI Bill, among other initiatives.

Additionally, the bill amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes, including changes to the compensation structure for military personnel during state active service and increasing the bonding limit for the State Armory Building Commission from $15 million to $45 million. It introduces a new definition for "veteran of the secret war in Laos," allowing access to benefits for those who served in specific operations, and permits the commissioner of veterans affairs to access the MAXIS database to connect veterans with resources, contingent on informed consent. The bill also modifies eligibility criteria for burial fees and educational assistance, ensuring that surviving spouses retain their benefits regardless of remarriage. The advisory task force will be responsible for establishing criteria for veterans of secret guerilla units and will report its findings to the legislature by February 15, 2026.

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