VETERAN BENEFITS

Minnesota is the first state to formally recognize Hmong and Lao Secret War veterans, unlocking burial honors, ID designations, and more as of Aug. 1.

Three bipartisan Minnesota veteran laws take effect Aug. 1: honorary diplomas for Korean and Vietnam vets, a National Guard pay raise, and wider burial eligibility.

Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Act 38, requiring Pennsylvania's County Veteran Assistance Directors to complete new training in trauma-informed care, PTSD, TBI, and military sexual trauma support.

A new Pennsylvania law requires funeral homes to notify counties and give veterans' families contact info for burial benefits within 96 hours, closing a gap that leaves earned VA benefits unclaimed.

New Louisiana laws create a state stolen-valor crime and waive medical-record fees for veterans filing disability claims, both effective August 1.

A new Indiana law creates fresh property tax credits for disabled veterans, but they must register with their county auditor before year-end deadlines.

New Mexico's $10,000 standard exemption and a new disability-rating-based property tax break both take effect for the 2026 tax year.

New York''s Chapter 77 makes full property tax exemptions mandatory for 100% disabled veterans starting October 2026.

Arizona''s SB1749 removes income and value caps, widening full property tax exemptions for 100% disabled veterans starting in 2026.