Original Honoring Our WWII Merchant Mariners Act of 2025

The Original Honoring Our WWII Merchant Mariners Act of 2025 would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide a one-time tax-exempt payment of $25,000 to certain veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine. This benefit is specifically intended for individuals who served during World War II but did not receive benefits under the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the GI Bill.

To qualify for the payment, an individual must have served between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946, while holding specific licenses or documents required for maritime service. Eligible veterans would need to submit an application to the Department of Veterans Affairs to receive the funds. The bill aims to provide financial recognition to these mariners for their service during the war effort.

As this is standard legislation, it would require approval from both the House and Senate and the President's signature to become law. Currently, the bill has been referred to a subcommittee for review, which is the earliest stage of the legislative process. Most bills at this stage do not advance to a final vote.