Wisconsin Senate Bill SB387

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/11/25
• Refer: 8/11/25

Caption

Indication of veteran status of certain service members on operators’ licenses or identification cards. (FE)

Impact

If passed, SB387 would enable a broader category of service members, including reservists and national guardsmen, to indicate their veteran status on official identification documents. This change could facilitate access to services and benefits tailored for veterans and enhance recognition of the service rendered by these groups. The bill's implementation may also require state agencies to update their processes for issuing licenses and identification, ensuring that they can accommodate the new definitions.

Summary

Senate Bill 387 aims to modify the definition of 'veteran' for the purpose of allowing certain service members to indicate their veteran status on Wisconsin operator's licenses or identification cards. Currently, only those who have served a specified period of active duty under honorable conditions can designate themselves as veterans. This bill expands that definition to include members of the reserve forces and national guard who meet specific eligibility requirements for veterans home loans established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB387 may arise from the definition of 'veteran' itself and what it implies for eligibility for benefits. While proponents argue that recognizing reservists and national guardsmen as veterans is a matter of equity, detractors may highlight concerns about potential misuse of the term, and the implications this might have for veteran services overall. The bill is poised to foster discussions on eligibility criteria for veteran benefits and how broadly we define service-related status.