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HB 2053

Relating to including the United States Space Force in the definition armed forces

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Scot Heckert and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 2053 includes the U.S. Space Force in the armed forces definition, granting its members military benefits and recognition similar to other branches.

Chapter 177, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
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Bill Summary · HB 2053

Summary of House Bill 2053

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2053
  • Title: Relating to including the United States Space Force in the definition of armed forces
  • Status: Chapter 177, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
  • Introduced: January 29, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Military and Veterans

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2053 aims to amend various sections of the Code of West Virginia to formally include the United States Space Force in the definition of "armed forces." This inclusion recognizes the Space Force as a legitimate branch of the military, thereby extending certain benefits and considerations to its members similar to those afforded to other branches of the armed forces.

Key Provisions

The bill amends the following sections of the West Virginia Code:
- §5-10-15 (Military service credit; qualified military service)
- §8-22A-2 (Definitions related to municipal retirement systems)
- §9A-3-1 (Definitions related to veterans)
- §11-21-12 (Tax exemptions for veterans)
- §15-2-28 (Definitions related to the National Guard)
- §15-2A-2 (Definitions related to military service)
- §18-7A-17a (Educational benefits for veterans)
- §18-10F-2 (Definitions related to educational programs for veterans)
- §30-29-6 (Licensing for veterans)
- §48-31-102 (Definitions related to military service in family law)
- §62-16-3 (Definitions related to military service in criminal law)

Specific Changes

  • The bill clarifies that members of the United States Space Force will be recognized as having served in the armed forces for purposes of military service credit and other benefits.
  • It allows for the inclusion of Space Force service in calculations for retirement benefits and other military-related considerations.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Members of the United States Space Force: They will gain recognition and benefits similar to those of other military branches.
  • Public Employees: Those eligible for retirement benefits will see their military service, including service in the Space Force, recognized for credit purposes.
  • Veterans and Military Families: The bill impacts various provisions related to veterans' benefits, educational opportunities, and legal considerations.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: January 29, 2025
  • Passed: March 13, 2025
  • Effective Date: June 11, 2025 (ninety days from passage)
  • The bill underwent several readings and committee reviews before being passed by both the House and Senate and subsequently signed into law by the Governor.

Conclusion

House Bill 2053 represents a significant step in recognizing the United States Space Force as an integral part of the armed forces, ensuring that its members receive appropriate benefits and recognition. This legislative change reflects the evolving nature of military service in the modern era and aims to support those who serve in this new branch of the military.

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

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