Us Congress Senate Bill SB1100

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/30/23
• Refer: 3/30/23

Caption

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain emblems on headstones and markers furnished for veterans by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Impact

If enacted, the provisions of SB1100 will lead to a more individualized and meaningful commemoration of veterans at their final resting places. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, is tasked with establishing a formal list of approved emblems for inclusion on headstones and markers. This list will not only include traditional emblems of belief but also unit insignias and other pertinent symbols earned by military members, reflecting their service and sacrifices. This change in policy underscores a shift towards more thoughtful acknowledgments of service personnel's contributions.

Summary

SB1100 aims to amend title 38, United States Code, by providing for the inclusion of specific emblems on headstones and burial markers furnished for veterans by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. This legislation seeks to honor the service and achievements of veterans by allowing them to have personalized representations on their headstones, such as military unit insignia and other emblems that signify their military accomplishments. The amendment particularly emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the diverse service represented by various units in the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.

Contention

While the bill appears largely supportive of veterans, there could be potential points of contention regarding the selection of emblems to be included. Questions might arise regarding which emblems are deemed appropriate and the criteria for their inclusion on the official list. Furthermore, ensuring that the implementation of this bill is sensitive to the wishes of families and respects their rights to memorialize their loved ones could present challenges. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the resources needed for the administration and execution of these new provisions by the Veterans Affairs department.