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Bill

HR 6032

Headstones for Honor Act

119th Congress Introduced by Don Bacon and 1 co-sponsor

The Headstones for Honor Act allows the VA to provide memorials for enslaved individuals and others who served in military roles, recognizing their contributions to history.

Introduced in House
1
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Bill Summary · HR 6032

Summary of HR 6032 - Headstones for Honor Act

Purpose and Intent

The Headstones for Honor Act (HR 6032) aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide headstones, markers, and medallions for the graves of certain enslaved individuals and those who performed military functions despite being ineligible to serve in the Armed Forces. This legislation seeks to recognize and honor the contributions of these individuals, ensuring they receive the memorials they deserve.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to existing law:

  1. Eligibility for Headstones and Markers:

    • The bill expands eligibility to include:
      • Enslaved Individuals: Those who accompanied members of the Armed Forces or Civil War veterans during their service or served in lieu of another individual.
      • Individuals Performing Military Functions: Those who performed military roles while prohibited from serving due to Federal, State, or Tribal laws based on race, gender, sex, or ethnicity.

  2. Specific Requirements:

    • For enslaved individuals who served in the Confederate Army during the Civil War, headstones or markers must include language indicating that they were forced to support their own enslavement.
    • Requests for headstones or markers can only be made by direct descendants or individuals authorized by them.

  3. Regulatory Framework:

    • The Secretary of Veterans Affairs is required to establish regulations within one year of enactment, which will include:
      • Definitions of "military function."
      • Guidelines for evidence that can be used to determine eligibility, including various historical records.

  4. Implementation Timeline:

    • The amendments will take effect either when the Secretary issues the necessary regulations or one year after the bill's enactment, whichever comes first.
    • A report on the implementation of these amendments is required within 15 months of enactment.

Impact

The Headstones for Honor Act is expected to:
- Provide recognition and dignity to the graves of historically marginalized individuals who contributed to military efforts.
- Facilitate a more inclusive understanding of military history by acknowledging the roles played by enslaved individuals and others who were denied formal military service.
- Engage descendants and communities in the process of memorializing their ancestors, fostering a sense of heritage and recognition.

Legislative Status

  • Introduced: November 12, 2025
  • Current Status: The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs for further consideration.

This legislation represents a significant step towards honoring the contributions of all individuals who have played a role in the defense of the nation, regardless of their legal status at the time.

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

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