Texas House Bill HB402

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to a medal for certain members of the state military forces who served during the Cold War; authorizing a fee.

Notes

The bill's design emphasizes the importance of recognizing military service during the Cold War, an era that shaped contemporary global politics. As such, HB402 not only contributes to the legislative recognition of military achievements but also bolsters state efforts to honor service members through formal accolades.

Impact

The bill not only seeks to recognize the service of those who participated in a critical historical period but also introduces a fee structure that requires recipients of the Cold War Medal to pay a cost covering the awarding of the medal. This approach acknowledges the administrative expenses associated with the issuance of such honors, which may be a point of discussion among stakeholders involved in veterans' affairs.

Summary

House Bill 402 proposes the establishment of a Cold War Medal to honor members of the Texas military forces who served during the Cold War period, specifically from September 2, 1945, until December 26, 1991. The bill revises Section 431.134 of the Government Code to include the new medal while outlining the eligibility criteria for its award. To qualify for the Cold War Medal, recipients must have served in the Texas National Guard or the Texas State Guard during that defined time frame.

Contention

Some stakeholders may debate the appropriateness of imposing a fee for receiving a medal intended to honor service; concerns may be raised regarding access and recognition for lower-income veterans. Furthermore, discussions on whether the Cold War service warrants special recognition alongside other military engagements may elicit differing perspectives among legislators, veterans' advocacy groups, and military personnel.