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Equal Benefits for Veterans: Recognizing All Lawful Marriages

This bill modifies the definition of spouse and surviving spouse within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations. It ensures that the VA recognizes all individuals lawfully married, including same-sex couples. This guarantees equal access to benefits and financial support for all eligible veterans and their families.
Key points
The definition of spouse and surviving spouse for veteran benefits is expanded to include all legally married individuals, regardless of sex.
Same-sex spouses and surviving spouses of veterans gain full and explicit access to all VA benefits and programs.
The Department of Veterans Affairs is required to update all internal rules and regulations to comply with this inclusive definition.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1314
Sponsor: Sen. Peters, Gary C. [D-MI]
Process start date: 2023-04-26
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the definition of spouse and surviving spouse to include all individuals lawfully married, and for other purposes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_1314.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-04-26.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • The definition of spouse and surviving spouse for veteran benefits is expanded to include all legally married individuals, regardless of sex.
  • Same-sex spouses and surviving spouses of veterans gain full and explicit access to all VA benefits and programs.
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs is required to update all internal rules and regulations to comply with this inclusive definition.
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 Sen. Peters, Gary C. [D-MI].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Family