Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SSB3127

Introduced
1/30/24  
Introduced
1/30/24  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the qualifications of veterans.

Impact

The bill's amendments will influence various aspects of Iowa state law, particularly those affecting veterans' benefits and services. These include adjustments to tax exemptions related to property owned by veterans and their families, as well as eligibility criteria for state employment preferences and other advantages. By aligning the state definition of a veteran with federal guidelines, it aims to create a more standardized and inclusive approach to supporting individuals who have served in the military.

Summary

Senate Study Bill 3127 is a legislative proposal focused on redefining the qualifications required to be recognized as a veteran in the state of Iowa. The bill seeks to amend existing state laws, particularly in Code chapter 35, by establishing clearer criteria for veteran status. It extends the residency requirement to all categories of veterans, eliminating past references to specific military conflicts. The recognition of a veteran would be based on adherence to federal definitions, which include a discharge under conditions other than dishonorable.

Contention

Notable contention around this bill lies in the broadening of the definition of a veteran, which some stakeholders may argue dilutes the specific recognition traditionally afforded to those who have served in particular conflicts. There are concerns from lawmakers and advocacy groups about ensuring that benefits remain targeted and are not overly generalized. Additionally, as the bill alters tax exemption criteria, it may invoke debate regarding the fiscal implications for state revenue and how best to balance veteran support with the state's financial health.

Companion Bills

IA HSB521

Related A bill for an act relating to the qualifications of veterans.

Previously Filed As

IA HSB521

A bill for an act relating to the qualifications of veterans.

IA HSB103

A bill for an act relating to matters under the purview of the department of veterans affairs, including county commissions of veteran affairs and cemetery expenditures.(See HF 259.)

IA HF259

A bill for an act relating to matters under the purview of the department of veterans affairs, including county commissions of veteran affairs and cemetery expenditures. (Formerly HSB 103.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA SF444

A bill for an act relating to matters under the purview of the department of veterans affairs, including county commissions of veteran affairs and cemetery expenditures.(Formerly SF 236.)

IA SF236

A bill for an act relating to matters under the purview of the department of veterans affairs, including county commissions of veteran affairs and cemetery expenditures.(See SF 444.)

IA SF2399

A bill for an act relating to persons who qualify for the military service tax exemption, and including applicability provisions.

IA SF93

A bill for an act relating to qualifications to serve as a commissioner or an executive director for a county commission of veteran affairs.

IA HF912

A bill for an act relating to state services and benefits provided to veterans, including state grants, public assistance programs, business fee waivers, substance use disorder programs, mental health and disability services, undergraduate tuition and fees, disabled veteran tax credits, department of natural resources' licenses and fees, permit to carry weapons fees, vehicle registration fees, and driver's licenses, making penalties applicable, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HF 469.)

IA HF469

A bill for an act relating to state services and benefits provided to veterans, including state grants, public assistance programs, business fee waivers, substance use disorder programs, mental health and disability services, undergraduate tuition and fees, disabled veteran tax credits, department of natural resources' licenses and fees, civil litigation priority, permit to carry weapons fees, vehicle registration fees, and driver's licenses, making penalties applicable, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 912.)

IA HF2143

A bill for an act relating to the membership of the commission of veterans affairs.(See HF 2306.)

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