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

“Service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country deserve the utmost honor and respect for their heroism, bravery and patriotism,” said Wallace. “The parents of these courageous fallen heroes deserve to be commended and honored in the name of their children and their service to our country.”

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. Assemblymember Wallace’s bill would fix this issue by ensuring that every parent is honored for their child’s sacrifice.

“Every situation regarding families is different, and parenting, regardless of blood relation, is special and knows no bounds,” Wallace said. “Any parent who raises a child who serves in our nation’s military understands and instills the values and commitment necessary to defend our country. Parents of those that fall in defense of our country should be recognized and honored for the service and sacrifices of the heroes they helped create.”

Wallace is urging the Senate to pass this important piece of legislation this year. These families have already sacrificed so much and it’s time that their sacrifice is properly recognized, Wallace noted.