The bill, S.B. No. 2958, aims to amend the Texas Government Code by adding a new subchapter that recognizes individuals who were separated from military service solely based on their sexual orientation as honorably discharged veterans under state law. This new subchapter, titled "Benefits, Rights, Privileges, and Immunities of Certain Veterans," includes definitions for terms such as "active military service," "DD Form 214," and "military discharge record." It establishes criteria under which a person can be considered honorably discharged, specifically if they were dishonorably discharged or separated from service due to their sexual orientation, and would have otherwise received a more favorable discharge characterization.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that individuals recognized as honorably discharged under these provisions are entitled to all benefits, rights, privileges, and immunities afforded to honorably discharged veterans in Texas. It also mandates that state agencies accept specific copies of DD Form 214 as proof of discharge. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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