Us Congress House Bill HB5197

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/11/23
• Refer: 8/11/23
• Refer: 9/1/23

Caption

To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish memorial headstones and markers for eligible spouses and dependent children of veterans whose remains are unavailable, and for other purposes.

Impact

The bill would expand the eligibility criteria for receiving memorial headstones and markers, thus promoting a comprehensive acknowledgment of the contributions of veterans and their families. This move aligns with existing policies designed to support veterans and recognizes the sacrifices made not only by the veterans themselves but also by their families. It reflects a growing awareness of the importance of familial support in the veteran community and aims to strengthen the ties between the Department of Veterans Affairs and veteran families.

Summary

House Bill 5197 aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code by requiring the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide memorial headstones and markers for the spouses and dependent children of veterans whose remains cannot be obtained. This legislative move is intended to honor the family members of veterans who have passed away under circumstances where their remains are unavailable, ensuring they are recognized with dignity through memorialization.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from various stakeholders, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation and funding of the bill. Some members of Congress might raise concerns regarding the allocation of resources for such memorials, especially in the context of budget constraints faced by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Furthermore, the criteria for determining eligibility and the logistics involved in providing these memorial items could be subjects of debate among lawmakers.