Senate Committee Approves Mastriano Bill Offering Bonuses for Global War on Terror Veterans

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The Pennsylvania Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee today approved a bill introduced by Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33) that would authorize monetary bonuses for Pennsylvania military veterans who served during the Global War on Terror. The bill, known as Senate Bill 1316, is now set to be considered by the full Senate.

The proposed legislation would provide bonuses to veterans who were Pennsylvania residents at the time of their service and continue to reside in the state. Veterans who were engaged in active service during the Global War on Terror would be eligible for a $500 bonus, while those who served in direct support of the war, such as those who received specific campaign medals, would be eligible for a $1,000 bonus. Additionally, veterans who were prisoners of war or the families of those killed in action would receive a $5,000 bonus.

“In each and every one of our nation’s wars, Pennsylvanians have stepped up to protect and serve us,” said Senator Mastriano, who chairs the committee. “Now that the Global War on Terror has ended, it is time for Pennsylvania to once again say ‘thank you’ by approving these bonuses.”

The bill was co-sponsored by Senators Ryan Aument (R-36), Lisa Baker (R-20), and Tracy Pennycuick (R-24), who also expressed their strong support for the legislation.

“Pennsylvania’s longstanding support of our military personnel who bravely and selflessly served in prior conflicts is well established,” Senator Aument said. “The positive movement of this legislation today is a continuation of that well-deserved support for those who sacrificed it all to serve our nation in its fight against terrorism.”

Senator Baker reflected on the significance of this recognition, stating, “It is highly appropriate that we offer a bonus to those who fought terrorists, to those who were prisoners of war, and to the families of those who were killed in action. We can never say enough how grateful we are to the courageous and committed individuals who protect us and defend democracy.”

Senator Pennycuick added, “It’s time for our commonwealth to express that same gratitude for those who put their lives on the line to protect our homeland during the Global War on Terror.”

Pennsylvania has a long history of providing monetary bonuses to veterans, with previous bonuses awarded to veterans of the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War.

The bill now awaits further debate and a vote in the full Senate. If passed, it will provide a meaningful gesture of appreciation to those who served in one of the nation’s most challenging military endeavors.