News Louisiana to Create Country's First Database of Veteran-Owned Businesses "This is going to help veterans make that transition from service to civilian life and give us another opportunity to say thank you." By Meghan Overdeep Meghan Overdeep Meghan Overdeep has more than a decade of writing and editing experience for top publications. Her expertise extends from weddings and animals to every pop culture moment in between. She has been scouring the Internet for the buzziest Southern news since joining the team in 2017. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Published on June 3, 2019 Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: JasonDoiy/Getty Images It's about to become a lot easier to support veteran-owned businesses in Louisiana. The Associated Press reports that the state will create a new program that certifies businesses that are owned by veterans or spouses of veterans killed while on duty. House Bill 391, by Baton Rouge Republican Representative Franklin Foil, won final passage Sunday with a 98-0 House vote. The measure will form the Veterans First Business Initiative in the state's economic development agency. Through it, consumers will soon be able to search a database on its website to find such businesses. The department will also create an insignia for certified vendors to display, making them easy to identify within the marketplace. The bill is the first of its kind in the country. WATCH: 100-Year-Old World War II Veteran on a Mission to Meet All 50 Governors in Their Home States According to The Louisiana Weekly, veterans must own 51% or more of the business and must not have been dishonorably discharged to qualify. "This is going to help veterans make that transition from service to civilian life and give us another opportunity to say thank you," Governor John Bel Edwards said at a press event last week. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit