This bill aims to enhance support for veterans in Minnesota by establishing new standards for competitive and direct grants, modifying benefits for veterans of the Secret War in Laos, and creating the Commanders Task Force. Key provisions include the introduction of a veteran designation on driver's licenses and identification cards, which will now include designations for "Veteran 100% T&P" and "SGU Veteran." The bill modifies eligibility criteria for burial in state veterans cemeteries, allowing veterans of the Secret War in Laos and certain reserve component members to qualify. It also mandates the commissioner of veterans affairs to temporarily close veterans homes under specific circumstances and requires annual reporting on grant recipients.

Additionally, the legislation outlines requirements for organizations seeking grants, emphasizing that they must be Minnesota-based nonprofits with a minimum of five years of operation. It establishes a scoring system for grant applications based on the applicant's history of serving veterans and prioritizes those with service-connected disabilities when resources are limited. The bill also creates a new process for determining veterans' eligibility for specific benefits related to burial in a VA national cemetery, requiring an application process and assistance from county veteran service officers. The Commanders Task Force will advise on veterans' matters and will consist of elected leaders from various veteran service organizations in Minnesota. The bill includes appropriations for the commissioner of veterans affairs and the commissioner of public safety and repeals a specific subdivision related to pay and allowances for enlisted persons called into state active service.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 198.01
1st Engrossment: 198.01
2nd Engrossment: 171.07, 197.231, 198.01
1st Unofficial Engrossment: 171.07, 197.231, 198.01