New Mexico 2023 Regular Session

New Mexico Senate Bill SB210

Introduced
1/25/23  
Report Pass
2/13/23  
Report Pass
2/25/23  
Engrossed
2/28/23  
Report Pass
3/7/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Enrolled
3/16/23  
Chaptered
3/30/23  

Caption

Nat'l Guard Death Benefit Act

Impact

The passing of SB210 will have a direct impact on state laws concerning military and veterans' benefits. This act not only provides substantial financial support to the families of fallen service members but also formalizes a state mechanism for honoring their duty. By ensuring that funds are available for these benefits, SB210 reinforces the importance of recognizing and compensating the sacrifices made by military personnel while on state duty. Additionally, it emphasizes the state's responsibility to provide for those who serve, thereby shaping future financial commitments in state legislation related to veterans and military affairs.

Summary

SB210, known as the National Guard Death Benefit Act, aims to create a dedicated fund to provide supplemental death benefits to members of the National Guard, and the state defense force, in the event of their death while on state active duty. This act establishes a fund within the state treasury, administered by the department of military affairs, which will consist of donations and appropriations, enabling the payment of a significant benefit of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) to the designated beneficiaries of deceased service members. The establishment of this fund highlights the state's commitment to supporting military personnel and acknowledges their sacrifices made while serving the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB210 is predominantly positive, with broad support from various stakeholders who recognize the importance of providing death benefits for service members. The support reflects a collective appreciation for the sacrifices that National Guard members make for the safety and security of the community. However, as with many legislative measures related to financial allocations, there are concerns about the sustainable funding of this benefit and the effectiveness of administering such a fund. Overall, the act is seen as a necessary step in providing support and recognition to military families serving the state.

Contention

While there is general agreement on the necessity of providing benefits to military personnel, SB210 may face scrutiny regarding the source and sustainability of the funding for the death benefit fund. Legislators may debate the potential impact of financial burdens associated with this act on the state budget. Additionally, there may be discussions about the management of the fund and the criteria for disbursement of benefits, which could lead to further legislative action to clarify and refine the provisions within the act. The establishment of such a fund could prompt ongoing analysis of military benefits in relation to changing socio-economic conditions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NM HB143

Provides for death and disability benefits for La. National Guardsmen (EN +$8,200,000 SD EX See Note)

NM HB323

AN ACT relating to death benefits.

NM HB141

Enhance Law Enforcement Death Benefits

NM SB1

Provides for death and disability benefits for Louisiana National Guardsmen activated by the governor or the president. (gov sig) (EN +$8,200,000 SD EX See Note)

NM H0621

Death Benefits for Active Duty Servicemembers

NM SB3

Enhancing Death Benefits For Law Enforcement

NM SB245

Provides for death and disability benefits for Louisiana National Guardsmen activated by the governor or the president. (gov sig) (EG INCREASE GF EX See Note)

NM S1202

Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

NM S702

Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

NM SB292

Updating statutes related to the Kansas army and air national guard, providing for the appointment of a state judge advocate, providing for the adjustment of death and disability benefits and updating the Kansas code of military justice relating to certain definitions, unlawful acts and punishment requirements thereof.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.