Service members bonus appropriation

SF 616 appropriates $6,000 for fiscal year 2026 to provide $1,200 bonuses to eligible Minnesota service members who did not receive prior bonuses under Minnesota Statutes §197.79 but have a DD214 confirming qualifying service. It directly affects veterans whose military service meets specific criteria outlined in state law, requiring them to submit documentation to the Veterans Affairs commissioner by December 31, 2028. The funds are available until June 20, 2029, and are intended to supplement existing bonus programs for qualifying service. This bill creates a new payment mechanism for veterans meeting defined service requirements, without altering existing eligibility rules.