Senate Bill 983 aims to expand the definition of "veteran" under Wisconsin state law to include current and former members of the National Guard who have satisfactorily completed their initial term of obligated service and received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions. This change is intended to extend most state veterans benefits to these individuals, although it explicitly excludes benefits related to admission to state veterans homes and burial in veterans cemeteries, as these are governed by federal regulations.

The bill introduces new legal language by creating a definition for veterans in section 45.01 (12) (jm) and amends section 45.51 (2) (a) 1. to clarify that the term "veteran" now encompasses this expanded group, while also specifying that it does not include veterans described under the new definition. This legislative change reflects a commitment to recognizing the service of National Guard members and ensuring they have access to certain state benefits.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 45.51(2)(a)1, 45.51