Statement From Senate Republican Leader Flanagan Regarding Gold Star Families

We are pleased that Governor Cuomo has identified statutory language that will allow Gold Star families to access free college tuition and room and board at SUNY and CUNY schools. Even better, the families of these heroes won’t have to wait another minute to receive the benefits they deserve, as some Democrat politicians in Albany wanted them to do.

I commend Senator Ortt and many members of the Senate and Assembly Republican conferences who shed light on the need to address this important issue. There is no doubt that we wouldn’t be getting a result today without their will and determination to achieve one.

Families of individuals who paid the ultimate price will have their lives changed forever as a result of their sacrifice. As a state, this is the least we can do to honor their service, their commitment and their bravery, and to make life just a little bit easier for their sons and their daughters.