Massachusetts H3889: An Act relative to extending Veterans benefits to surviving spouses

What the bill says

From the introduced text, February 27, 2025:

SECTION 1. (a) Section 5 of chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Laws, as appearing in the most recent edition, is hereby amended by striking out the current rates of benefits provided to veterans and inserting in place thereof the following provisions:- 1. The amount of financial assistance provided to eligible veterans shall be increased by 25% over the current rate of benefits. 2. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans' Services shall annually review the cost of living and adjust the benefit rates accordingly to ensure veterans' benefits keep pace with inflation. (b) Section 5A of chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Laws is further amended by adding the following:- (1) Upon the death of an eligible veteran, the surviving spouse shall continue to receive the same financial assistance benefits provided under Chapter 115 for a period of 12 months following the death of the veteran. (2) After the initial 12-month period, the surviving spouse shall continue to receive financial assistance at 75% of the veteran’s benefit rate, provided the spouse remains unmarried and continues to meet the eligibility criteria set forth by the Department of Veterans' Services. (3) In the event of remarriage, benefits shall cease at the time of remarriage. (4) The Executive Office of Veterans' Services shall establish guidelines to ensure a seamless transition of benefits from …

Read the full official text

Sponsors

• Steven Xiarhos (R, 5th Barnstable) · primary sponsor
• Joseph McKenna (R, 18th Worcester)
• Kelly Pease (R, 4th Hampden)
• Marcus Vaughn (R)

Latest actions

1. June 1, 2026: Accompanied a study order, see H5466 (under House Rule 27)
2. June 17, 2025: Hearing rescheduled to 06/24/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1
3. February 27, 2025: Senate concurred
4. February 27, 2025: Referred to the committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs
5. : Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order

Votes

• Committee Vote - Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs (September 19, 2025): 9 yea, 0 nay, passed

Common questions

What is H3889?

H3889 is a bill in the Massachusetts Legislature (194th General Court): An Act relative to extending Veterans benefits to surviving spouses.

What is the status of H3889?

Failed as of June 1, 2026. Latest action: Accompanied a study order, see H5466 (under House Rule 27) (June 1, 2026).

Who sponsored H3889?

Steven Xiarhos (R, 5th Barnstable), with 3 co-sponsors.

Where is the official record for H3889?

On the Massachusetts Legislature website: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3889