Bill Passes to Significantly Increase Medal of Honor Pensions

Soldiers standing with American flag in background sky

The House of Representatives unanimously passed legislation to quadruple Medal of Honor recipients’ annual pensions from $16,880 to $67,500, sending the bipartisan bill to the Senate for consideration.

Key Takeaways

The House voted 424-0 to increase Medal of Honor pensions from $16,880 to $67,500 annually
Currently, only 60 living recipients would benefit from this increase if approved by the Senate and President
Bipartisan legislation was introduced by Republican Rep. Troy Nehls (TX) and Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas (NH)
Pension increases would be funded by extending limitations on certain veterans’ pensions through 2033
The bill coincides with the opening of a new Medal of Honor museum in Arlington, Texas

Historic Pension Increase for America’s Highest Military Honor

The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation to increase the annual pension for Medal of Honor recipients from $16,880 to $67,500. The bill, which passed with a 424-0 vote, now heads to the Senate where it requires approval before reaching the President’s desk for final signature. If enacted, the legislation would directly benefit the 60 living Medal of Honor recipients who represent a small fraction of the approximately 3,500 individuals awarded this highest military decoration since its establishment in 1863.

The pension increase represents a significant update to a benefit that has seen infrequent adjustments throughout its history. Medal of Honor recipients initially received $10 per month in 1916, which was later increased to $100 monthly in 1961, and then to $1,000 per month in 2002. The current legislation would make the first substantial adjustment in over two decades, recognizing both the rarity of the honor and the financial challenges recipients often face while serving as representatives of American military heroism.

Medal of Honor recipients went above and beyond the call of duty.

These brave heroes receive a special pension of $16,880.76 annually.

My bill would increase this pension to around $67,500 annually.

Let’s get it across the finish line and signed into law. pic.twitter.com/OTgfPPEC4B

— Congressman Troy E. Nehls (@RepTroyNehls) February 27, 2025

Bipartisan Support and Funding Mechanism

Representatives Troy Nehls (R-Texas) and Chris Pappas (D-New Hampshire) introduced the bipartisan legislation, demonstrating rare cross-party cooperation in the current political climate. The bill aims to alleviate financial burdens for Medal of Honor recipients who frequently travel across the country for speaking engagements, memorial services, and other public appearances that come with their distinguished status. These obligations often create substantial expenses for recipients who serve as living symbols of military valor.

“My bill, the Medal of Honor Act, just passed the U.S. House of Representatives. Increasing the special pension for our nation’s Medal of Honor recipients is the least Congress can do to honor their bravery, valor, and selflessness. The Senate must pass this bill immediately!” – Source

The pension increase will be funded through adjustments to the Veterans’ Affairs budget. Specifically, the legislation extends limitations on pensions for veterans without dependents from 2031 to 2033, creating the necessary cost offset to fund the enhanced benefits. This strategy ensures the increased support for Medal of Honor recipients is fiscally responsible while maintaining commitments to the broader veteran community.

New Medal of Honor Museum and Current Recognition Efforts

The timing of this legislation coincides with the establishment of a new Medal of Honor museum in Arlington, Texas, further highlighting the nation’s commitment to honoring these extraordinary service members. The museum will serve as a permanent tribute to all recipients of America’s highest military decoration, educating the public about their sacrifices and preserving their legacies for future generations.

Concurrently, veterans and lawmakers are advocating for President Trump to award the Medal of Honor to Major James Capers, a Vietnam War veteran described as “legendary” by supporters. Despite suffering severe injuries, Capers saved his unit during a 1967 ambush and reportedly attempted to sacrifice himself for their safety. His continued suffering from these injuries underscores the lifelong impact of battlefield heroism that the Medal of Honor recognizes.