S.1116 - Ensuring Veterans’ Final Resting Place Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1116, the "Ensuring Veterans' Final Resting Place Act of 2025," proposes amendments to Title 38 of the United States Code, specifically concerning burial benefits for veterans. The bill aims to modify the provision of burial benefits when an urn or plaque is furnished for a deceased veteran. It was introduced in the Senate on March 25, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
The key change involves altering the language regarding the provision of headstones or markers, and redesignating paragraphs within Section 2306(h) of Title 38. The amendments apply retroactively to individuals who died on or after January 5, 2021.
In essence, this bill seeks to streamline and potentially expand burial benefits for veterans who choose cremation or other alternatives to traditional burial, ensuring their service is honored appropriately.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in changes to the administrative processes within the Department of Veterans Affairs related to burial benefits.
It could lead to increased access to certain benefits for veterans' families who opt for urns or plaques instead of traditional headstones. The retroactive application suggests an attempt to rectify past inconsistencies or limitations in benefit provisions.
Ultimately, the effect will be a clarification and potential expansion of burial benefits for veterans, particularly those choosing cremation.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Access to Benefits: Veterans' families may find it easier to access burial benefits when choosing cremation.
- Retroactive Application: Families of veterans who passed away since January 5, 2021, may now be eligible for additional benefits.
- Streamlined Processes: The bill aims to simplify the administrative procedures related to burial benefits.
- Honoring Veterans: By ensuring appropriate burial benefits, the bill helps to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans.
- Increased Flexibility: The bill provides more flexibility in choosing burial options, accommodating different preferences.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Costs: Expanding benefits could lead to increased costs for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Administrative Challenges: Implementing the changes may present initial administrative challenges.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses narrowly on burial benefits and does not address broader issues affecting veterans.
- Possible Confusion: The changes in paragraph designations could initially cause confusion among those familiar with the existing regulations.
- Unintended Consequences: As with any legislative change, there is a possibility of unforeseen and unintended consequences.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to provide benefits to veterans, who have served the nation. Specifically, the Preamble of the US Constitution states the goal to "promote the general Welfare".
Congress has the power to legislate regarding veterans' affairs under its implied powers to support the military and those who have served. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to raise and support armies, and this can be interpreted to include providing for veterans.
There are no apparent constitutional conflicts, as the bill does not infringe on individual rights or freedoms.
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).