H.R.695 - Medal of Honor Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 695, the Medal of Honor Act, proposes to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to increase the special pension payable to Medal of Honor recipients. The bill seeks to raise the monthly pension from $1,406.73 to $8,333.33 for living recipients. It also clarifies the amount payable to surviving spouses, ensuring they receive $1,406.73, adjusted over time.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would substantially increase the financial support provided to Medal of Honor recipients and their surviving spouses. This change recognizes their extraordinary service and sacrifice. The increased pension aims to provide a more significant benefit to these individuals.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Financial Security: Medal of Honor recipients and their surviving spouses would receive a higher pension, improving their financial stability.
- Recognition of Service: The increased pension acknowledges the exceptional bravery and sacrifice of Medal of Honor recipients.
- Symbolic Value: The act reinforces the nation's commitment to honoring its heroes.
- Improved Morale: The act could boost morale among current and future members of the Armed Forces.
- Support for Families: Surviving spouses would receive continued financial support.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Government Spending: The higher pension payments would increase the financial burden on the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Potential for Future Increases: The precedent of significantly increasing the pension could lead to future requests for further increases.
- Fairness Concerns: Some may argue about the fairness of providing such a substantial benefit to a select group compared to other veterans.
- Administrative Costs: Implementing the changes may incur additional administrative costs.
- Opportunity Cost: Funds allocated to this pension increase could be used for other veterans' programs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's provision for Congress to provide for the common defense and general welfare (Preamble). Specifically, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to provide for the support of the armed forces. Providing pensions to Medal of Honor recipients can be seen as a way to support and honor those who have served with exceptional bravery, thus promoting national defense and the general welfare.
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).