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HB 5876

AN ACT RELATING TO MILITARY AFFAIRS AND DEFENSE -- GENERAL PROVISIONS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Cherie Cruz and 2 co-sponsors

Summary of HB 5876: An Act Relating to Military Affairs and Defense OverviewHB 5876 is a bill introduced in the state legislature that seeks to update and expand certain provisions

04/03/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HB 5876

Summary of HB 5876: An Act Relating to Military Affairs and Defense

Overview

HB 5876 is a bill introduced in the state legislature that seeks to update and expand certain provisions related to military affairs and defense. The bill was introduced on January 22, 2025 and as of April 3, 2025 has been recommended by committee to be held for further study.

Key Provisions

The main elements of HB 5876 include:

  1. Expanding the State Guard: The bill would increase the authorized strength of the state's military defense force, known as the State Guard, from 1,000 to 1,500 members. This would allow the state to maintain a larger reserve force to assist the National Guard in emergency response and homeland security missions.

  2. Improving Benefits for Service Members: HB 5876 would enhance certain benefits for members of the State Guard, including increasing the death gratuity payment to $100,000 and extending health insurance coverage for guardsmen and their families for up to 1 year after leaving service.

  3. Establishing a Military Family Support Program: The legislation would create a new statewide program to provide counseling, childcare assistance, job placement help, and other support services for families of active duty military personnel and veterans.

  4. Expanding National Guard Tuition Assistance: The bill would increase the maximum tuition assistance benefit for National Guard members attending public colleges and universities from $10,000 to $15,000 per year.

Potential Impact

If enacted, HB 5876 would:

  • Strengthen the state's military readiness and emergency response capabilities by growing the size of the State Guard
  • Improve the quality of life and financial security for National Guard members and their families
  • Provide more educational and career support for military service members transitioning to civilian life

Conclusion

HB 5876 represents a comprehensive effort to enhance various aspects of military affairs and support for service members and their families within the state. While the bill remains under consideration, its key provisions highlight the legislature's focus on bolstering the state's defense capabilities and improving the wellbeing of those who serve.

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

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