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Senate passes bill honoring SGU veterans and expands burial rights for Minnesota National Guard
Summary
The Senate approved Senate File 4807 to recognize veterans of the "secret war" in Laos and to allow Minnesota National Guard members to be interred in state veterans cemeteries; lawmakers and veterans in the gallery were honored at a brief recess.
The Minnesota Senate on April 22 passed Senate File 4807, a bipartisan measure recognizing veterans who fought in the "secret war" in Laos and authorizing Minnesota National Guard members who served honorably to be interred in state veterans cemeteries.
Sen. Robby Putnam, sponsor of the measure, said the bill "keeps a promise" to veterans and described two main provisions: recognition of Hmong and allied veterans who served alongside U.S. forces, and eligibility for burial in state veterans cemeteries for Minnesota National Guard members who served honorably. Sen. Jeff Hawj and Sen. Pha described the bill's cultural and historic importance to Hmong and other communities, noting decades-long efforts to secure recognition.
The Senate recorded final passage with a roll call of 58 yeas and 8 nays. After passage the chamber recessed briefly for senators and guests to recognize SGU veterans in the gallery; senators and veterans exchanged applause and remarks.
Why it matters: The bill responds to advocacy by Hmong and SGU veterans and their families and adds state-level honors and benefits for a cohort long seeking formal recognition. Supporters framed the bill as restorative and symbolic, while sponsors emphasized inclusion of additional groups the legislation covers.
Sponsor comments and context: Sen. Hawj traced the history of Hmong and allied service in Southeast Asia and said recognition, not monetary compensation, is the principal aim: "The recognition of honor is what really matters," he said. Sen. Xiong, whose family history includes SGU veterans, described decades of advocacy culminating in the floor action and urged broad support.
Next steps: The bill passed the Senate and its title was agreed to; the Senate recessed to honor veterans in the gallery before continuing legislative business.
