In a significant move to address the concerns of veterans, the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs has successfully pushed for the passage of several bills during the 2023 legislative session. These bills, signed into law by Governor Kristi Noem, will come into effect on July 1, positively impacting veterans across the state.
Senate Bill 15, for instance, updates the acceptable forms and documents for obtaining veteran designation on a state driver's license or ID card to include the Uniformed Services ID Card (Retired). This change aims to streamline the process and ensure veterans have access to the benefits they deserve.
Education-related bills also took center stage. House Bill 1039 now enables eligible members of the Guard to receive a 100% reduction in tuition charges for undergraduate programs up to 128 credits and graduate programs up to 32 credits at any state-supported university. Additionally, this tuition reduction can be applied to a program of study at an approved state vocational college. House Bill 1046 expands the opportunity for free tuition to the children or spouses of disabled or deceased South Dakota National Guard members, now including technical colleges as an option.
Recognizing the importance of honoring deceased veterans, two bills focused on headstones. House Bill 1065 increases the reimbursement fee for setting a federal government headstone or marker in a private cemetery to $200. Meanwhile, House Bill 1054 allows the state to cover $100 for professionally etching veterans' military information, such as name, rank, branch of service, and dates of birth and death, on privately purchased headstones.
Amid the ever-changing landscape of federal veteran benefits, it can be challenging to navigate the available programs. The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs strongly encourages veterans to seek assistance from county or tribal veterans service officers (CTVSOs) when filing claims. These dedicated men and women, who have served and protected our freedoms, possess firsthand experience and are ready to support fellow veterans.
To locate the nearest CTVSO, visit: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov/veteransserviceofficers/locatevso.aspx
With these legislative victories, South Dakota demonstrates its commitment to serving and supporting its veterans, making meaningful strides to improve their lives and ensure they receive the recognition they deserve.
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy