Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1066

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/24
• Refer: 2/26/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Employment of direct-care employees by veterans homes, eligibility for burial in veterans cemeteries, and elements of sexual assault under the Wisconsin Code of Military Justice. (FE)

Impact

One significant change introduced in SB1066 is the removal of residency requirements for individuals seeking burial in state veterans cemeteries. Previously, individuals discharged under non-dishonorable conditions had to be Wisconsin residents. This change aims to simplify the eligibility criteria, making it easier for the spouses and children of eligible veterans to be interred in these cemeteries without the burden of residency status.

Summary

Senate Bill 1066 aims to amend various statutes concerning the employment of direct-care employees at veterans homes, the eligibility for burial in state veterans cemeteries, and the elements of sexual assault under the Wisconsin Code of Military Justice. The bill intends to streamline hiring processes by exempting certain applicants from traditional competitive selection requirements if they provide direct care to veterans, thus expediting the recruitment of essential staff for veterans homes. It also proposes that employees providing direct care can elect to receive weekly pay starting in 2025.

Contention

Another notable provision in the bill is its modification of the sexual assault statute to align more closely with the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) by eliminating the element of 'causing bodily harm' in defining sexual assault. This aspect has been met with scrutiny, as critics may argue that it could weaken protections against sexual offenses within military settings. Overall, the bill reflects a broader legislative goal to enhance support for veterans while addressing key legal frameworks related to their care and service.