MN HF4237

Amends Minnesota Statutes section 197.447 to expand the definition of "veteran" to include persons naturalized under the federal Hmong Veterans' Naturalization Act of 2000, Public Law 106-207, who reside in Minnesota.

Adds eligibility for persons whom the commissioner of veterans affairs determines served honorably with special guerrilla units or irregular forces operating from a base in Laos as surrogate soldiers in support of U.S. armed forces between February 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975.

Requires persons claiming veteran status under the new provision to be either a U.S. citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence and must reside in Minnesota.

Definition applies throughout Minnesota Statutes except in sections 136F.28, 196.21, and 243.251.