disabled veterans of the National Guard and reserves, who ets with an honorable discharge and those who receiving a service-connected disability rating from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and a monthly disability paycheck, The  state of Iowa does not recognize them as a disabled veteran or even a veteran, solely because they did not deploy during service. The federal government acknowledges their contributions and the sacrifices made, yet the state benefits that could greatly assist in managing their disability remain out of reach.

Many veterans who served honorably in the Guard and Reserve find themselves in a similar predicament. they dedicated years of our lives to serving our country and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. Yet, the current Iowa state benefits criteria exclude a significant portion of veterans simply because their service path didn’t include deployment. This oversight diminishes the dedication, training, and readiness we maintained throughout their service.

The reality is that many Guard and Reserve members are routinely activated and have endured the same rigorous training and commitment as their active-duty counterparts. They stand ready to deploy at a moment’s notice, and many have done so with distinction. It is counterintuitive to deny them the recognition and benefits they rightfully deserve. Nationally, other states have moved to rectify this injustice, recognizing all who served as veterans for the purpose of granting state benefits. Iowa should be no different.

Ensuring that all who served in the Guard and Reserve are recognized as veterans not only acknowledges their contributions but also supports them as they reintegrate into civilian life. These state benefits are often crucial for veterans living with service-connected disabilities, providing access to essential resources such as health care, education, and housing support and emergency utility bill vouchers for veterans struggling to pay bills

We urge the Iowa State Legislature to amend current policies and extend the state veterans’ benefits to encompass all National Guard and Reserve members who have served honorably. In doing so, Iowa would honor the sacrifices of its veterans and uphold its commitment to all those who have sworn to defend it.

Sign this petition to call for a change that respects and honors the service of all National Guard and Reserve veterans in Iowa.