STUART  –  U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-21) introduced a legislative package to support veterans and active duty service members transitioning into civilian life. The three bills – The Final Honors Act, the Oath of Exit Act, and the Wounded Warrior Bill of Rights Act – aim to expand recognition, improve mental health, and strengthen protections for injured service members in the medical separation process.

“Too many heroes return home to a country unprepared to support the weight of their sacrifices or give them the proper recognition,” said Rep. Brian Mast. “These bills not only honor their service, but move us towards accountability and efficiency in the systems designed to protect our nation’s heroes,” he added. 

THE PACKAGE INCLUDES: 

• The Final Honors Act: This bill would allow the remains of service members who die in the line of duty to lie in honor in the United States Capitol Rotunda, upon the request of their family. This honor is one of the nation’s highest ceremonial tributes, and it ensures the fallen receive recognition commensurate with their sacrifice.  

• The Oath of Exit Act: Addressing the mental health crisis among veterans, this bill would allow service members to voluntarily take an “Oath of Exit,” which affirms their commitment to serve their fellow veterans by seeking help when necessary and uphold the values instilled during military service. The bill reinforces identity, community, and responsibility post-service to help reduce veteran suicide rates. 

• The Wounded Warrior Bill of Rights Act: This legislation reaffirms that decisions on medical separation and disability evaluations must remain under the authority of a service member’s direct chain of command and not solely the Defense Health Agency. It guarantees service members a right to due process, and this includes a fair hearing upon request while ensuring that Wounded Warriors are not denied protections during the medical review process.