Bill > HB5377

This bill, the Burial Equity Act, expands eligibility for burial in the state veterans' cemetery to include former members of the National Guard and military reserves, provided they meet certain criteria such as serving at least four years, being a resident for two consecutive years prior to death (or having their qualifying enlistment in West Virginia), and having an honorable discharge; this provision is retroactive to March 15, 2022. Additionally, it establishes a Burial Equity Grant Program, administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, to provide up to $1,000 to eligible families to help cover burial costs, with grants awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The bill also creates a dedicated Burial Equity Fund in the State Treasury, to be managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, which will be funded by legislative appropriations, federal money, and private donations, with any remaining funds carrying over to the next fiscal year for the sole purpose of supporting these burial grants.

Budget and Finance

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5377&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill