House approves broad veterans, military bill expanding protections and leave

The House of Representatives on April 23 adopted the Senate substitute for House Bill 25 93, a package of veterans and military provisions that the chamber’s sponsor called a “landmark bill.” The final tally on the bill’s final passage was yeas 138 and nays 1.

The sponsor, the representative from Pulaski County, said the measure bundles cybersecurity protections, TRICARE protections for service members, expanded military leave from 120 hours to 160 hours, added state authority for state life insurance for National Guard members and other updates intended to modernize support for service members and families. “It’s a great bill,” the Pulaski County representative said during debate, urging a yes vote.

Members from both parties described the bill as bipartisan and practical. The veterans and armed forces committee reported the bill out 21–1, and several representatives who served in uniform or on the veterans committee spoke in support, saying the changes will strengthen emergency response and help service members balance civilian obligations with duty.

The bill’s supporters said it will improve readiness for disasters such as tornadoes and expand protections for National Guard members called to state duty; one member highlighted a program allowing guardsmen to donate sick leave to cover six weeks of recuperation in certain circumstances.

With passage in the House, the Senate-substituted measure moves to the governor for signature or veto. The record shows the chamber approved both adoption of the Senate substitute and final passage during the April 23 session.