HF840

The bill presented, H. F. No., primarily focuses on the elimination of burial fees for the spouses and dependents of eligible veterans in Minnesota's state veteran cemeteries. It modifies current stipulations in two subdivisions of Minnesota Statutes 2024:

1. Section 190.19 subdivision 2a:

   • Expands the use of funds from the Minnesota Support Our Troops account. These funds may now be utilized for various purposes including:
     • Grants to veterans service organizations.
     • Outreach to underserved veterans.
     • Services and programs for veterans and their families.
     • Transfers for Gold Star license plates.
     • Grants up to $100,000 to organizations supporting veterans.
     • Coverage of some burial costs in veteran cemeteries for eligible dependents without fees or at a reduced fee.

2. Section 197.236 subdivision 9:

   • Directs the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs to establish and potentially adjust a fee schedule for the burial of eligible spouses and dependent children in state veterans cemeteries, ideally reflecting actual interment costs (excluding plot value).
   • Establishes provisions allowing the commissioner to waive or reduce burial fees for indigent eligible persons, with the development of eligibility standards and an application process.
   • Explicitly states that no plot or interment fees will be charged for service members who die on active duty or other defined eligible veterans.

Overall, this legislative bill aims to alleviate financial burdens associated with the interment of veterans' family members, ensuring dignified and respectful burials without the added stress of significant costs.