This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to create burial equity for former members of the National Guard and military reserves in the state veterans' cemetery. It expands eligibility for interment to include these individuals, along with their spouses and dependent children, provided they meet specific criteria such as having served for at least four years, being a resident of the state for two consecutive years prior to death, and having a discharge other than dishonorable. The bill also states that these provisions will apply retroactively to decedents who passed away after March 15, 2022.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Burial Equity Grant Program, administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, which allows eligible families to apply for funding to cover burial costs up to $1,000. A special revenue fund, the Burial Equity Fund, will be created in the State Treasury to support this program, consisting of appropriated funds, federal contributions, and private donations. The fund will be used exclusively for the grants and will not revert to general revenue at the end of the fiscal year.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9A-3-1