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A 408

Authorizes a veteran's close friend or family member who is reasonably familiar with such veteran's wishes to request that such veteran be buried in a state veterans' cemetery

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Burdick and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 408 allows a veteran's close friend or family member to request burial in a state veterans' cemetery, ensuring their final wishes are honored and respected.

REFERRED TO VETERANS' AFFAIRS
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Bill Summary · A 408

Summary of Bill A 408

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 408
  • Title: Authorizes a veteran's close friend or family member who is reasonably familiar with such veteran's wishes to request that such veteran be buried in a state veterans' cemetery
  • Status: Referred to Veterans' Affairs
  • Introduced: January 08, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 408 is to expand the eligibility for requesting burial in a state veterans' cemetery. Currently, only certain individuals may have the authority to make such requests. This bill seeks to allow a veteran's close friend or family member, who is familiar with the veteran's wishes, to initiate the burial request process. This change aims to honor the wishes of veterans and ensure that their final resting place aligns with their preferences.

Key Provisions

  • Eligibility to Request Burial: The bill permits a close friend or family member of a veteran, who is reasonably familiar with the veteran's wishes, to request burial in a state veterans' cemetery.
  • Definition of Close Friend or Family Member: While the bill does not specify the exact definition, it implies that the individual must have a significant relationship with the veteran to understand their burial preferences.
  • Process for Request: The bill outlines that the request must be made in accordance with existing procedures for burial in state veterans' cemeteries, ensuring that all necessary protocols are followed.

Impact

  • Veterans and Their Families: This bill directly impacts veterans and their families by providing them with more flexibility and options regarding burial arrangements. It acknowledges the importance of personal relationships in honoring a veteran's wishes.
  • State Veterans' Cemeteries: The bill may lead to an increase in requests for burial in state veterans' cemeteries, as it broadens the pool of individuals who can advocate for a veteran's burial preferences.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Action: As of January 8, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Veterans' Affairs Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Bills: This bill is related to several prior-session bills (A 7932, A 3083, A 9808, A 6302, A 1664) and has a companion bill (S 1009) in the Senate, indicating ongoing legislative interest in veterans' burial rights.

Conclusion

Bill A 408 represents a significant step towards honoring the wishes of veterans by allowing those who know them best to advocate for their burial preferences. By expanding the eligibility for making burial requests, the bill aims to ensure that veterans receive the respect and recognition they deserve in their final arrangements.

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

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