Bill > SB1354

This bill establishes a new program through the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs to provide memorial headstones or markers for eligible Oklahoma National Guard members who do not currently qualify for federal veteran burial benefits. To be eligible, a veteran must have served at least six years in the Oklahoma National Guard, died as a state resident, been honorably discharged, and not qualify for existing federal headstone provisions under 38 U.S.C., Section 2306. The bill creates a new "National Guard Veteran Burial Revolving Fund" in the state treasury, which can receive legislative appropriations, donations, and gifts to support the program. The Oklahoma Veterans Commission will develop the application process and necessary implementation rules. The funding will be used to reimburse eligible veterans or their families for obtaining a proper memorial headstone or marker that meets specific federal standards for size, material, composition, placement, and informational content. The program and its associated fund will become effective on November 1, 2026, providing a new benefit specifically for long-serving Oklahoma National Guard members who might otherwise lack access to memorial markers.

Military Affairs and Security

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1354&Session=2600