Minnesota lawmakers move to expand recognition, benefits for Secret War veterans

A 2025 law created state statute relating to the Veterans of the Secret War in Laos who served honorably with special guerrilla units or other irregular forces “in support of the armed forces of the United States at any time during the period beginning February 28, 1961, and ending May 14, 1975, and is a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States.”

Additionally, these veterans were made statutorily eligible for specific state benefits, including designation on state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that the holder is a veteran of the Secret War in Laos, burial privileges at state veterans’ cemeteries, grave markers purchased by the Department of Veteran Affairs, honor guards, and permissive preference for veterans in private employment.

A task force was also called for to develop eligibility requirements for “Veteran of the Secret War in Laos” status.

Sponsored by Rep. Ethan Cha (DFL-Woodbury), HF3919 carries recommendations put forth by the group. In addition to clarifying technical changes and modifications, including a burial fee reference, it would establish an application process for people seeking the veteran status.

Approved 132-0 by the House Monday, it now goes to the Senate.

In a statement following the vote, Cha said, “Our Hmong and Lao veterans who served valiantly in the Secret War risked everything for American interests, and were promised support that never fully materialized. Minnesota has a moral responsibility to recognize these heroes who later built vibrant communities in our state, and this initiative represents a critical step toward fulfilling our long-overdue commitment to these courageous individuals.”

“Passing this bill is the bare minimum that we can do to respect the dignity and honor, the sacrifices, that our soldiers have given to this country,” Rep. Samantha Vang (DFL-Brooklyn Center) said during the House Floor discussion.

The federal Department of Veterans Affairs has a process to determine burial eligibility, including those from the Secret War in Laos. Under the bill, these veterans would apply to the federal government, and if they receive burial eligibility, would get a certificate from the state Department of Veterans Affairs stating they are Secret War in Laos veteran and are eligible for the list of benefits in the bill.

If federal authority is not granted, the person could request reconsideration from the state Department of Veterans Affairs. If deemed eligible at the state level, they would be eligible for all benefits except burial in a state veterans cemetery.

The bill calls for $200,000 from the General Fund — $141,000 is onetime funding — in Fiscal Year 2027; however, it also cancels a $100,000 appropriation from the 2025 law.