By Forum Staff
State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) commended Gov. Kathy Hochul for signing into law an array of veteran-related legislative initiatives, including one of his own bills. These measures are specifically designed to provide essential resources and unwavering support to veterans and their families throughout the state, Addabbo said.
The legislation spearheaded by Addabbo, a member of the Senate’s Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, mandates the small business revolving loan fund within New York’s Empire State Development Corporation to actively promote and engage with veteran-owned enterprises and service-disabled veteran-owned enterprises, ensuring their access to vital financial resources.
“This new law is a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and their entrepreneurial spirit. By requiring the small business revolving loan fund in the Empire State Development Corporation to specifically target and market to veteran-owned enterprises and service-disabled veteran-owned enterprises, we are ensuring that these brave men and women receive the necessary resources and opportunities to succeed in the business world. Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our nation, and it’s only fitting that we provide them with the support they need to thrive in the civilian sector,” Addabbo said. “I truly appreciate Governor Hochul signing my bill and I am honored to have played a part in championing this legislation, now looking forward to witnessing the positive impact it will have on our veteran community.”
In addition to Addabbo’s bill, the other legislation addresses various critical areas aimed at facilitating the seamless transition of veterans into civilian life. One of these bills clarifies the definition of a veteran for tax exemption purposes, extending the scope to include career members of the armed forces. Furthermore, another bill grants complimentary access to New York State parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities for veterans and members of Gold Star families, effective April 1, 2024.
To enhance transparency and expedite housing opportunities, a bill has been enacted to require the disclosure of the number of veteran applicants on the Mitchell-Lama housing waitlist. Moreover, an important piece of legislation eliminates the wartime service requirement for certain civil service roles, thereby expanding the pool of eligible veterans for employment.
These comprehensive legislative measures embody the unwavering commitment of the current administration to honor the sacrifices made by our brave veterans and to provide them with the necessary support and resources they truly deserve.
Additionally, Addabbo proudly highlighted the establishment of VIP NY, a groundbreaking veteran internship program. This visionary initiative reserves ten percent of available internships in the Assembly Youth Participation program and the Senate Student Program exclusively for honorably discharged veterans, underlining the state’s commitment to empowering and nurturing their professional growth.
“I will continue my constant dedication in championing vital measures that seeks to make a significant and lasting impact on the lives of our esteemed veterans and their families. We can never do enough for the brave men and women who are serving, or who have served, our country,” Addabbo said. “I thank them all because – Every day is Veterans Day!”
