Sponsors (2)
The bill offers one-time compensation and simplified claims processes to WWII merchant mariners but may not reach or fully compensate all eligible recipients because of a fixed funding cap, a strict one-year application deadline, and potential administrative delays.
World War II merchant mariners who qualify will receive a one-time $25,000 payment to compensate for past exclusion from 1944 benefits.
Creates a dedicated $125 million appropriation (FY2026) and a fund with no fiscal year limitation, increasing the likelihood that payments will be made.
Allows DD-214 forms as acceptable documentation, simplifying proof of service and easing the application process for many claimants.
The $125 million funding cap may be insufficient to provide full $25,000 payments to all eligible claimants, risking partial payments or denials.
Payments are limited to applicants who apply within one year, so eligible mariners who miss the deadline will receive nothing.
Fund operations depend on annual reporting and future appropriations, creating a risk of administrative delays and uncertain long-term funding that could slow payments.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Provides one-time $25,000 payments to eligible WWII U.S. merchant mariners, creates a Treasury fund, and authorizes $125M for FY2026 with VA-admin rules and reporting.
Introduced January 3, 2025 by Al Green · Last progress January 3, 2025
Provides a one-time $25,000 payment to eligible World War II U.S. merchant mariners by creating a Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund in the Treasury. The VA will administer payments to mariners who served between December 7, 1941 and December 31, 1946, did not receive benefits under the 1944 Servicemen's Readjustment Act, and file an application within one year of enactment.