ATLANTA (April 14, 2026) - Today, Sen. Chuck Payne (R-Dalton) celebrated the work of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military, and Homeland Security for successfully advancing important legislation supporting Georgia's veterans to the Governor's desk for final consideration. The committee held numerous meetings throughout the 2025-2026 biennium, which concluded on April 2.

The Senate Committee on Veterans, Military, and Homeland Security primarily focuses on addressing the welfare of military personnel, protecting citizens from man-made or natural disasters, and streamlining emergency management procedures throughout the state. A veteran of the U.S. Army himself, Sen. Payne has served as chairman since January 2024 and prioritized expanding access to benefits and recognition for those who have sacrificed in service to the nation.

During the 2025 Legislative Session, the committee passed House Bill 53, which was later signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp. This measure expanded eligibility for burial in Georgia's state veterans' cemeteries to include reserve component members, such as those serving in the Army Reserve or the National Guard, as well as their families, bringing state policy closer into alignment with federal guidelines.

"These service members play a critical role in national defense and keeping our state safe," said Sen. Payne. "Not only does HB 53 remove unnecessary barriers, but it also ensures that we are paying tribute to as many military members as possible. Promising a dignified final resting place is the least we can do for their bravery and sacrifice in service to our country."

Building on that momentum, the committee continued its work during the 2026 Legislative Session and favorably reported House Bill 985 to the Senate. This legislation extends burial eligibility in state veterans' cemeteries to veterans from the Hmong-Laotian special guerrilla units who served with U.S. forces during the Vietnam War.

"These veterans fought and died alongside American soldiers, yet their service has often gone unrecognized," said Sen. Payne. "That is simply unacceptable. HB 985 ensures they receive the dignity and honor they have earned, including the right to be laid to rest in Georgia, a state they are proud to call home. I look forward to seeing Gov. Kemp sign this bill into law as we continue our commitment to all of our brave military members and their families."

The Senate Committee on Veterans, Military, and Homeland Security also considered several other bills, including:

• HB 108, or the "Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment Act," aimed to regulate third-party, for-profit consultants who help veterans navigate U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs disability claims.
• SB 429, or the "Housing for Heroes Act," focused on expanding housing accessibility for disabled veterans.
• SB 190 proposed waiving fees for veterans and family members for state parks, memorials and historic and recreation areas.
• SB 555 sought to include parents or spouses of veterans in the eligibility for Georgia War Veterans' Homes.

To learn more about the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military, and Homeland Security, visit their website here.

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Sen. Chuck Payne serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military, and Homeland Security. He represents the 54^th Senate District, which includes Murray and Whitfield counties, as well as a portion of Gordon County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-5080 or by email at [email protected].

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