Pennsylvania-based U.S. Merchant Marine veterans who sailed during World War II applauded the signing of state legislation that calls for a one-time, $500 cash bonus to eligible mariners from that era.The American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) had pushed for House Bill 58, which also was supported by the SIU. Pennsylvania Governor Edward Rendell signed the bill on April 12.
Sponsored by Pennsylvania State Rep. John. A. Maher (R-Allegheny/Washington), the bill calls for a $500 bonus to any U.S. Merchant Marine veteran who served during World War II and who is also a legal resident of Pennsylvania.
According to the governor’s office, eligibility requirements include honorable separation from the U.S. Merchant Marine; having maintained U.S. citizenship during World War II; and not having “refused to be subject to military discipline on conscientious, political, religious or other grounds during World War II.”
The adjutant general is charged with administering the act, issuing applications and reviewing applications for the bonus. Also, the adjutant general is to prepare, publish and distribute a pamphlet explaining the benefits under this act.
The bonuses will be funded by a U.S. Merchant Marine World War II Veterans’ bonus fund, a restricted receipt account in the general fund. Money for the fund will be appropriated from the General Fund by the General Assembly and any money remaining in the fund on June 30, 2007, will be returned to the General Fund.
The bill passed the House 199-0 and the Senate, with amendments, 49-0. The House concurred 197-0. This bill becomes effective immediately, but will expire on June 30, 2007.
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