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Vietnam Era Merchant Mariners: New Veterans Benefits Eligibility

This bill extends veterans' benefits eligibility to individuals who served in the U.S. merchant marine in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam Era. This means these mariners can now apply for the same benefits as other veterans, potentially improving their financial situation and access to healthcare. The changes apply retroactively, allowing those who served in the past to benefit.
Key points
Merchant mariners who served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War will now be considered veterans and gain access to benefits.
To receive benefits, mariners must obtain a certificate of honorable discharge issued by the Secretary of Defense.
The law applies retroactively, meaning individuals who have already completed their service can also apply for these benefits.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_8925
Sponsor: Rep. Slotkin, Elissa [D-MI-8]
Process start date: 2022-09-20
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

To provide eligibility for veterans benefits for individuals who served in the United States merchant marine in the Southeast Asia theater of operations during the Vietnam Era.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_8925.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2022-09-20.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Merchant mariners who served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War will now be considered veterans and gain access to benefits.
  • To receive benefits, mariners must obtain a certificate of honorable discharge issued by the Secretary of Defense.
  • The law applies retroactively, meaning individuals who have already completed their service can also apply for these benefits.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Slotkin, Elissa [D-MI-8].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Benefits