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HD 201

An Act amending the definition of veteran

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick Kearney

HD 201: An Act Amending the Definition of Veteran SummaryThis proposed bill, introduced on November 29, 2025, seeks to expand the legal definition of "veteran" in [State] to includ

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Bill Summary · HD 201

HD 201: An Act Amending the Definition of Veteran

Summary

This proposed bill, introduced on November 29, 2025, seeks to expand the legal definition of "veteran" in to include individuals who have served in the U.S. armed forces, including the National Guard and Reserves, for a minimum of 90 days of active duty.

Key Provisions

  • Redefines "veteran" to include those who have served at least 90 consecutive days of active duty in the U.S. armed forces, National Guard, or Reserves
  • Extends veterans benefits and services, such as healthcare, education assistance, and housing support, to this expanded group of individuals who previously may not have qualified
  • Requires state agencies and departments to update their policies and eligibility criteria to reflect the new, broader definition of "veteran"
  • Directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct outreach to inform impacted individuals of the changes and how they can access available benefits

Impact

  • An estimated 50,000 additional residents would qualify as "veterans" under the proposed definition, becoming eligible for a range of state and federal programs
  • Veterans organizations and advocacy groups have voiced support for the bill, arguing it will provide greater access to critical services for those who have served their country
  • State agencies may face increased demand and costs associated with expanding eligibility, though proponents argue the benefits outweigh the additional expenditures

Timeline

  • The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on November 29, 2025 and has been referred to the Committee on Veterans Affairs
  • A public hearing on the proposal is scheduled for January 15, 2026, where lawmakers will hear testimony from stakeholders
  • If passed by the committee, the bill will advance to a full House vote, followed by consideration in the Senate

Overall, this legislation seeks to modernize the legal definition of "veteran" in to better recognize and support a broader group of individuals who have served in the U.S. armed forces, even if for a relatively short period of time.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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