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Committee backs bill creating Civilian Honor Medal to recognize non‑veteran supporters of veterans
Summary
The committee reported House Bill 468 favorably after testimony that the measure would let the state extend an existing honor medal program to civilians who supported veterans; the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs described a rolling application and award process with minimal fiscal impact.
The Senate Committee on Health and Welfare voted to report House Bill 468 favorably. The bill would extend an existing state honor medal program to civilians who have provided notable support to veterans and the military community in Louisiana.
Representative Adams, the sponsor, described the measure as creating a Civilian Honor Medal that “would be picked to receive this medal by the commander of the VA here in Louisiana. No cost. The medal will be provided by the VA,” the sponsor said. Connor Junkin of the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs explained that the medal program would be a simple application process and awarded at the secretary’s discretion; he described the fiscal impact as “de minimis.”
Senator Boudreau asked how the rollout would be organized; Junkin said the program would operate on a rolling basis without a fixed annual ceremony and that the department expected to organize recognition around particular days of interest but had not finalized timing.
Senator Boudreau moved favorable action; with no objection the committee reported the bill favorably.
