Assemblymember Monica P. Wallace (D-Lancaster) announced that a bill she authored to eliminate the $1,000 limitation on the annual annuity payable to a Gold Star Parent has passed the Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (A.7570).

“Honoring the parents of lost service members is the least we can do in remembrance of their bravery and patriotism,” said Wallace. “They raised courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and they deserve to be commended.”

Under current law, Gold Star Parents – parents of a child killed in combat – are able to receive a Gold Star Parent Annuity of $500 each, at a maximum of $1,000. However, conflict arises when the deceased soldier is survived by more than two parents, whether through divorce and remarriage or adoption. In these cases, the state must choose between only two parents to receive the benefit. Wallace’s bill would fix this issue by ensuring that every parent is honored for their child’s sacrifice.

“Every family situation is different and parenting knows no bounds,” Wallace said. “If you raised a child, instilling in them the values and heroism it takes to serve our nation, then you should be recognized for your sacrifice and loss.”