This bill amends the definition of "veteran" in New Hampshire law to broaden eligibility for state benefits and programs that rely on veteran status. The new definition, as outlined in RSA 21:50, ensures that individuals discharged under honorable conditions, including those with a general discharge under honorable conditions, are included in the eligibility criteria. Key amendments include the removal of the phrase "honorably discharged veterans" in favor of the broader term "veteran" in various statutes, such as RSA 119:6, RSA 283:4, and RSA 97:1, thereby expanding the scope of who qualifies for employment preferences and property tax exemptions.

Additionally, the bill modifies several existing statutes to replace references to "honorable discharge" with the new definition of discharge as specified in RSA 21:50. This change is intended to standardize the language across various laws and ensure that all veterans, regardless of the specific nature of their discharge, are treated equitably in terms of benefits and reemployment rights. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, on August 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21:50, 119:6, 283:4, 97:1, 110-D:3
As Amended by the Senate: 21:50, 119:6, 283:4, 97:1, 110-D:3
As Amended by the Senate (2nd): 21:50, 119:6, 283:4, 97:1, 110-D:3
As Amended by the House: 119:6, 283:4, 97:1, 110-D:3
Version adopted by both bodies: 119:6, 283:4, 97:1, 110-D:3
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 119:6, 283:4, 97:1, 110-D:3
SB448 text: 21:50, 119:6, 283:4, 97:1, 110-D:3