Korean Valor Act Bill By Montco Lawmaker Going to Governor

HORSHAM TOWNSHIP, PA — State Rep. Melissa Cerrato’s bill to extend U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits to Korean Americans who served alongside American troops in Vietnam is going to Gov. Shapiro.

Cerrato said that her bill, the Korean VALOR Act (HB 304), has passed both chambers of the Pennsylvania General Assembly — with a unanimous vote in the PA Senate — and is now headed to Gov. Josh Shapiro's desk to become law.

The legislation ensures that Korean American veterans who fought bravely alongside U.S. troops during the Vietnam War and later became naturalized citizens will finally receive the recognition, rights, and state veterans' benefits they have long deserved.

"These veterans stood with us in the most challenging times. With HB 304, we stand with them now— in fairness, in gratitude, and in justice," Cerrato said. "I’m honored to carry this bill forward and look forward to it becoming law very soon."

Cerrato’s legislation mirrors the Federal Korean American Vietnam Allies Long Overdue for Relief Act, which was signed into law in November 2023.

Under her bill, Pennsylvania veterans of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces who served in the Vietnam War between Jan. 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975, would be eligible for applicable benefits with necessary proof of service documentation.

Cerrato —who represents the 151st Legislative District —said that H.B. 304 is a vital step toward ensuring fairness and honoring the sacrifices of those who stood alongside American troops in defense of freedom.

Meanwhile, Cerrato said she was honored that another bill — HB237: Bryan's Law — was spotlighted and strongly supported during the inaugural meeting of the Law Enforcement Caucus.

Cerrato serves 64,000 constituents in Horsham Township, Ambler, Upper Dublin Township, and Montgomery Township.