H.R.2719 - Staff Sergeant John D. Martek Purple Heart Restoration Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2719, the Staff Sergeant John D. Martek Purple Heart Restoration Act, aims to award the Purple Heart to veterans who experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) attributable to an act of an enemy of the United States on or after December 7, 1941. The bill amends Title 10 of the United States Code to include specific provisions for awarding the Purple Heart in these cases. It requires the Secretary concerned to establish a process for submitting applications and awarding the Purple Heart to eligible veterans, regardless of the date of the TBI.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely result in more veterans with service-connected TBIs receiving the Purple Heart. This recognition could improve their access to certain benefits and provide a sense of honor for their service and sacrifice. The Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs will need to establish processes for application and award.
Potential Benefits
- Provides recognition and honor to veterans who suffered TBIs due to enemy actions.
- May improve access to certain benefits and resources for affected veterans.
- Acknowledges the long-term impact of TBIs on veterans' lives.
- Establishes a clear process for veterans to apply for the Purple Heart.
- Could increase awareness and understanding of TBIs within the military and veteran communities.
Potential Disadvantages
- May create additional administrative burden for the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Could potentially lead to increased costs associated with benefits for newly recognized Purple Heart recipients.
- The definition of 'traumatic brain injury' and 'act of an enemy' may require further clarification to avoid ambiguity.
- Could open the door for similar claims from veterans with other types of injuries or conditions.
- May not address all the needs and challenges faced by veterans with TBIs beyond the awarding of the Purple Heart.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional power of Congress to provide for the common defense and to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8). It also relates to Congress's power to make rules for the government and regulation of the land and naval forces. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).