Bill > SB1377

This bill establishes the Veterans Cemeteries Board within the Hawaii Department of Defense to improve the management and maintenance of veterans cemeteries across the state. The board will be composed of representatives from various federal, state, and county departments, including directors or designees from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, county departments responsible for veterans cemeteries, and the Hawaii state veterans cemetery. The board's key responsibilities include identifying compliance issues facing veterans cemeteries, developing collaborative solutions, seeking resources and funding, and engaging with community stakeholders. Specifically, the board will create a statewide framework to meet the compliance standards set by the National Cemetery Administration, develop best practices for cemetery maintenance, and establish a standardized data collection system. The board members will serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses, and they will be required to submit an annual report to the legislature with their findings and recommendations. The board's ultimate goal is to ensure that Hawaii's veterans cemeteries meet high-quality standards and provide appropriate honor and care for veterans' final resting places.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1377&year=2025