Bill > H3857

This bill proposes to expand the legal definition of a veteran in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 4, Section 7, Clause 43, by adding three additional uniformed services to the existing definition of veteran beyond the traditional military branches and Coast Guard. Specifically, the bill would now include members of the United States NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Corps, the United States Public Health Service, and the United States Space Force as eligible for veteran status. This modification means that individuals who have served in these less commonly recognized uniformed services would now be legally recognized as veterans in Massachusetts, potentially qualifying them for veteran-related benefits, services, and protections that were previously limited to members of more traditional military branches. The bill represents a broadening of the state's definition to recognize a wider range of public service and uniformed personnel.

Military Affairs and Security

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3857