Bonuses for Ohio War Veterans Approved

COLUMBUS- Overshadowed by fights over casinos and farm animals, a largely uncontested ballot issue authorizing $200 million in debt to pay cash bonuses to recent war veterans was overwhelmingly saluted yesterday.

With 90 percent of the unofficial tally counted, Issue 2 was carrying 72 percent of the vote. The constitutional amendment continues a tradition, which began with World War I, to veterans of the Persian Gulf War in 1991 and the ongoing wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Although questions were raised about the cost of more borrowing, the issue faced no organized opposition.

Veterans who served honorably in war zones would be eligible for up to $100 for every month of service up to a maximum of $1,000. Those stationed elsewhere in war time would be eligible for $50 per month up to a maximum of $500.

The family of a serviceman killed in the line of duty, declared missing in action, or taken as a prisoner of war could receive benefits of $5,000.

The Ohio Department of Veterans Services was so confident the issue would pass that it sent a notice hours before the polls closed urging veterans not to start waiting at the mailbox.

The secretary of state first must certify final election results, and the department must adopt rules and get staff in place before it begins accepting applications.

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