State Rep. Cerrato Korean VALOR Act Bill Advances

EASTERN MONTGOMERY COUNTY, 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 has cleared a PA House committee.

The House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee unanimously approved H.B. 304, voting to grant naturalized Korean American veterans of the Vietnam War the same rights, recognition, benefits and privileges under Pennsylvania law as other veterans.

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.

“Hundreds of Korean Americans who became naturalized U.S. citizens served bravely alongside American troops during the Vietnam War, yet many have been denied access to the benefits they deserve,” Cerrato said. "House Bill 304 honors Korean American veterans’ courage and strives to uphold Pennsylvania’s commitment to all who have served alongside us in times of war."

The bill now advances to the full PA House chamber for a vote.

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