The bill amends the definition of "Veteran" in Section 161.001(a)(7) of the Natural Resources Code to expand eligibility for loans from the Veterans' Land Board. It retains the existing criteria for veterans who served in various branches of the military and introduces new provisions. Specifically, it adds a new category for individuals who served as members of a military force organized under state law, provided they have served for 184 days or more on a mission to secure the Texas-Mexico border, have not been dishonorably discharged, and are not members of the legislature.

Additionally, the bill removes the previous provision that allowed veterans who served in the armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam between February 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975, to qualify only if the board adopts a specific rule regarding these veterans. The changes aim to broaden access to loan benefits for a wider range of service members, particularly those involved in state-organized military efforts. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Natural Resources Code 161.001 (Natural Resources Code 161)