H.R.647 - Ensuring Veterans’ Final Resting Place Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.647, the "Ensuring Veterans' Final Resting Place Act of 2025," amends Title 38 of the United States Code to modify burial benefits for veterans. Specifically, it addresses situations where an urn or plaque is furnished instead of a traditional headstone or marker. The bill seeks to update and clarify the provision of additional burial benefits in these cases, applying retroactively to individuals who died on or after January 5, 2021.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in revised procedures within the Department of Veterans Affairs regarding the provision of burial benefits. This includes cases where veterans or their families opt for urns or plaques. The changes aim to ensure that eligible veterans receive appropriate burial benefits regardless of the type of memorial chosen.
Potential Benefits
- Clarified Benefits: Ensures veterans receive appropriate burial benefits when urns or plaques are chosen.
- Retroactive Application: Applies to deaths retroactively to January 5, 2021, potentially benefiting families who may have been affected by previous ambiguities.
- Streamlined Processes: Simplifies the administrative processes within the Department of Veterans Affairs related to burial benefits.
- Honoring Veterans: Reinforces the nation's commitment to honoring veterans' service through dignified burial arrangements.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Costs: The additional benefits could lead to increased costs for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Administrative Complexity: Implementing the changes may initially create some administrative challenges.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses narrowly on burial benefits and does not address broader issues affecting veterans.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the implied power of Congress to provide for the common defense and general welfare (Preamble). Specifically, it falls under Congress's authority to legislate regarding veterans' affairs, as there is no explicit constitutional restriction on providing burial benefits. The bill does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or liberties.
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).