Veterans and Military Affairs Committee approves Newhouse bill to assist the state’s fallen heroes with funeral expenses

The Veterans and Military Affairs Committee approved unanimously a bill to establish the Oklahoma Homeland Security Revolving Fund to provide assistance for the funeral expenses of state military or law enforcement personnel who die in the line of duty.

Authored by former Navy pilot Sen. Joe Newhouse, Senate Bill 567 would establish a fund to provide up to $10,000 in funeral expenses to all members of the National Guard, police, state troopers, firefighters and first responders who die in the line of duty while in response to state orders, including but limited to natural disasters and civil disturbances.  

“Men and women who courageously give their lives while defending Oklahoma and her citizens deserve our utmost honor, respect and thanks,” said Newhouse, R-Tulsa. “The least we can do to recognize this sacrifice is assist these grieving families with final expenses.”

The measure now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.