Bill > HB1422

This bill expands the definition of "Gold Star family member" and provides free state park admissions for eligible individuals who have lost a family member during active military service. The bill broadens the existing definition to include a biological parent of a child who died while serving, and requires the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to verify a Gold Star family member's relationship status and issue a free annual state park pass. To qualify, the Gold Star family member must be an Indiana resident and can prove their eligibility by displaying either an Indiana Gold Star family member license plate or the free annual pass. The definition of Gold Star family member now includes a wide range of relationships, such as biological, adoptive, and step-relatives, including parents, children, siblings, grandparents, and spouse of a service member who died while on active duty or as a result of injuries sustained during active service. The bill also requires the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to update its forms to reflect the expanded definition, with this particular requirement set to expire on July 1, 2027. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1422/details