# Plain Language Summary: Medal of Honor Act

This bill increases the monthly pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients from $1,406.73 to $8,333.33. The Medal of Honor is America's highest military decoration, awarded only to service members who perform acts of extraordinary bravery and heroism that go far beyond normal duty. Currently, there are only a few dozen living recipients of this award, so this change would directly affect a very small group of people.

The bill recognizes that Medal of Honor recipients have earned special recognition for their exceptional sacrifice and courage. By nearly six-folding their monthly pension, Congress is saying these individuals deserve substantially more financial support in recognition of their extraordinary service. For a Medal of Honor recipient, this means going from receiving about $1,400 per month to about $8,300 per month—a significant increase that could meaningfully improve their quality of life and provide better financial security.

The bill also addresses what happens to surviving spouses. If a Medal of Honor recipient passes away, their surviving spouse would continue to receive a monthly pension of $1,406.73, which would be adjusted over time for inflation. This ensures that the families of these heroes maintain some financial support even after the recipient's death. The legislation essentially says that the nation's highest honor deserves the nation's highest recognition in terms of financial support for those who earned it.

Medal of Honor Act

Nehls, Troy E.

Medal of Honor ActThis bill increases the monthly special pension for living Medal of Honor recipients from $1,406.73 to $8,333.33 and establishes a rate of $1,406.73 for the monthly special pension for surviving spouses of Medal of Honor recipients. Both amounts must be adjusted annually for inflation.