News Release
Rep. Duran’s Veterans Bill Passes House
ST. PAUL, MN — State Representative Bidal Duran, R-Bemidji, announced today that his bill, HF 3522, passed the Minnesota House unanimously.
HF 3522 strengthens Minnesota’s commitment to veterans, National Guard members, military families, and veterans of the Secret War in Laos. It also adds stronger accountability standards for veterans-related grants, including reporting requirements, grant scoring based on service to veterans, and authority to withhold funds from grantees involved in fraud, criminal investigations, or failure to deliver services.
“This bill is about keeping faith with the men and women who served,” Duran said. “It recognizes service that has too often been overlooked, strengthens support for veterans and their families, and makes sure taxpayer-funded veterans programs are held to a higher standard. As a veteran, I’m proud to see it pass the House.”
The legislation also expands recognition for veterans of the Secret War in Laos, updates state veterans cemetery eligibility, establishes the Commanders Task Force, updates state active service pay for military members, and clarifies limited emergency procedures for temporary veterans home closures.
“Our veterans community deserves both respect and accountability,” Duran said. “HF 3522 moves Minnesota in the right direction.”
The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
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