H 3857
An Act amending the definition of veteran
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Bill overview
This bill amends the current definition of ‘veteran’ in Massachusetts law. Specifically, it clarifies that individuals who have served in the U.S. Merchant Marine during periods of war are now considered veterans. The amendment broadens the scope of who qualifies as a veteran under state law. This change aims to recognize the service and contributions of those who have served in this important branch of the military.
Key provisions
- Expands the definition of ‘veteran’ to include those who served in the U.S. Merchant Marine during periods of war.
- Applies to individuals who meet the criteria for veteran status under federal law.
- Does not alter existing benefits or programs for veterans.
- Clarifies the scope of service considered for veteran designation.
Who is affected
- Veterans
- U.S. Merchant Mariners
- Families of Veterans
- State Agencies administering veteran benefits
Notable changes
- Previously, the definition of veteran did not explicitly include those in the Merchant Marine.
- This amendment aligns Massachusetts law more closely with federal definitions of veteran status.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Patrick Joseph Kearney
Cosponsors
Patrick Joseph Kearney
Thomas W. Moakley
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.3857 194th (Current)
An Act amending the definition of veteran
By Representative Kearney of Scituate, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3857) of Patrick Joseph Kearney relative to the definition of veteran. Veterans and Federal Affairs.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Patrick Joseph Kearney
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Bill History Petitioners Committee Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill H.3857
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 9/19/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/30/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 |
| 9/30/2025 | Joint | Hearing rescheduled to 09/30/2025 from 01:00 PM-02:50 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time |
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