Minnesota Senate Passes Bill Recognizing Hmong and Lao Veterans
In a historic move, the Minnesota Senate has approved a groundbreaking bill that offers state recognition and benefits to Hmong and Lao veterans who fought alongside U.S. forces during the covert “Secret War” in Vietnam. This conflict, initiated in the 1960s, saw the CIA recruit thousands of Hmong fighters to combat communist forces in Laos. Many of these veterans later resettled in the United States, with Minnesota currently hosting one of the largest Hmong American populations.
The proposed legislation would allow veterans to receive a “veteran” designation on their driver’s licenses and grant them access to state veterans cemeteries, among other honors. However, it’s important to note that full federal veterans’ benefits will still be unavailable. State Senator Susan Pha (DFL-Brooklyn Park), a co-author of the bill, highlighted the emotional significance of the legislation, stating, “Today, most of our veterans are in their 70s and 80s. They once stood shoulder to shoulder with American forces but still lack the recognition they deserve.”
During a recent Senate committee hearing, Hmong Special Guerrilla Unit veterans donned their uniforms to advocate for the bill, asserting their belief in the mission to defend freedom alongside the United States. Despite some bipartisan support, a few lawmakers expressed concerns about expanding formal veteran status, leading to ongoing discussions for a compromise that would acknowledge these veterans’ service while restricting certain benefits.
The bill still requires approval from the Minnesota House and will need to navigate budget negotiations before it can become law. If passed, the legislation would serve as a long-awaited acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by the Hmong and Lao community, five decades after the Vietnam War concluded.
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