Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR491

Introduced
4/23/26  

Caption

Urging the Congress of the United States to enact legislation designating the Green Star Service Banner as a national emblem honoring families of members of the United States Armed Forces and veterans who died by suicide.

Impact

If passed, HR491 would have significant implications for how suicide among veterans and active military personnel is acknowledged at both state and national levels. It presents an opportunity for enhanced focus on mental health issues faced by military families and can lead to increased awareness and support initiatives. Furthermore, the resolution advocates for the voluntary display of the Green Star Service Banner, encouraging local agencies and communities to observe this emblem in a manner that respects applicable policies, reinforcing community support for affected families.

Summary

House Resolution 491 urges the Congress of the United States to enact legislation that designates the Green Star Service Banner as a national emblem. This emblem would serve to honor the families of members of the United States Armed Forces and veterans who have died by suicide. The resolution emphasizes the importance of recognizing these families not merely as statistics but as individuals who bear a profound burden associated with grief and service. The symbolic gesture aims to provide a sense of dignity and acknowledgment to those affected by such tragedies.

Contention

While the resolution is largely a symbolic gesture aimed at recognizing a critical issue, there may be varying opinions on the effectiveness of such actions in addressing veteran suicides. Some may argue that while the recognition is vital, tangible measures and policies are necessary to tackle the underlying causes of veteran suicide, such as access to mental health care and community support systems. Discussions around the bill could reflect concerns about ensuring that symbolic actions do not overshadow the need for substantive changes in how mental health care and veteran services are delivered.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HR157

Urging the Congress of the United States to pass H.R. 1947, the Treatment and Relief through Emerging and Accessible Therapy for PTSD Act or similar legislation dealing with stellate ganglion block therapy to veterans and members of the armed forces of the United States with post-traumatic stress disorder, during the 119th United States Congress.

PA S0094

Suicide Prevention for Active and Former Members of the United States Armed Forces, the National Guard, and their Reserve Components

PA K01139

Urging the United States Congress to authorize and direct the issuance of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal to veterans of the United States Armed Forces who served in Honduras from 1981 through 1992

PA HR376

Urging the President and Congress of the United States to address the critical issue of veteran suicides by ensuring that the Department of Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive and accurate data to inform effective prevention strategies, thereby honoring the sacrifices of all who have served.

PA HR1150

Recognizing and honoring Cambodian veterans of the Khmer National Armed Forces for their sacrifices, their support of the Armed Forces of the United States, and their defense of freedom in Southeast Asia.

PA SCR154

Green Star Veterans and Families Day.

PA HR364

Urging the Congress of the United States to expand TRICARE Reserve Select eligibility to include members of reserve components of the Armed Forces of the United States who are enrolled or eligible to enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program.

PA H8251

HOUSE RESOLUTION URGING CONGRESS TO AUTHORIZE THE AWARD OF THE ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL, OR SIMILAR RECOGNITION, TO UNITED STATES SERVICE MEMBERS WHO SERVED IN HONDURAS FROM 1981 TO 1992

PA SR459

Recognizing the veterans of the United States Armed Forces who served during the Vietnam War.

PA HR315

Urging the Congress of the United States and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to enable veterans to access hyperbaric oxygen therapy for both traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.