Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility PA House passes Guenst bill to honor veterans lost to suicide

PA House passes Guenst bill to honor veterans lost to suicide

Legislation allowing Green Star Service Banner on state property advances

Rep. Nancy Guenst    June 9, 2026 | 10:30 AM

HARRISBURG, June 9 – Legislation aimed at highlighting alarming veteran suicide rates and improving recognition for affected families passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on Monday, according to the bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Nancy Guenst.

House Bill 2449 would authorize the voluntary display of the Green Star Service Banner on state-owned property. The banner would honor veterans who died by suicide and show support for their families.

“Wounds of war, both physical and mental, are carried by soldiers long after they leave the battlefield,” said Guenst, D-Montgomery. “This legislation is about recognizing that we need to do more to support our troops when they return home and providing a meaningful way for Pennsylvania to honor veteran families who have lost a loved one to suicide.”

Guenst said Pennsylvania appropriately honors service members who are killed in combat, but families affected by veteran suicide often do not receive the same level of recognition.

In addition, Guenst introduced a resolution urging Congress to designate the Green Star Service Banner as a national emblem.

House Bill 2449 now advances to the state Senate for consideration.