January 23, 2025
Mr. Cruz (for himself and Mr. Cotton) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs
To amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the rate of the special pension payable to Medal of Honor recipients, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends Act of 2025
or the MEDAL Act of 2025
.
Sec. 2. Findings
Congress finds the following:
(1)
The Medal of Honor is the highest and most prestigious military decoration of the United States.
(2)
To earn the Medal of Honor, the deed of the person … must be so outstanding that it clearly distinguishes his gallantry beyond the call of duty from lesser forms of bravery
.
(3)
The actions of Medal of Honor recipients inspire bravery, and the willingness to give all, in those who serve in the Armed Forces and those who will serve in the future.
(4)
Those listed on the Medal of Honor Roll exemplify the best traits of members of the Armed Forces, a long and proud lineage of those who went beyond the call of duty.
(5)
Pursuant to section 1562 of title 38, United States Code, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall pay monthly to each living person whose name has been entered on the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard Medal of Honor Roll a special pension.
(6)
Recipients of the Medal of Honor have earned a substantial and historic increase to such special pension in recognition of their conspicuous gallantry, unwavering commitment, and heroic actions above and beyond the call of duty.
Sec. 3. Increase in Department of Veterans Affairs special pension payable to Medal of Honor recipients
(a) Increase in special pension payable to living Medal of Honor recipients
Paragraph (1) of section 1562(a) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking $1,406.73
and inserting $8,333.33
.
(b) Amount of special pension payable to surviving spouses
Paragraph (2)(A) of such section is amended—
(1)
by striking special pension under this section
and inserting monthly
; and
(2)
by striking the period and adding at the end the following: a special pension under this section at the rate of $1,406.73, as adjusted from time to time under subsection (e).
.