Senator Marcellino's Veterans Legislation Passes Senate

The New York State Senate today passed a package of bills to expand benefits for veterans in honor of their service, including the Patriot Plan III, a Governor’s Program Bill sponsored by Senator Carl Marcellino (R, Syosset), that would provide health insurance and benefits to survivors of public employees who died while on active duty. The legislation (S.5436) also funds life insurance policies for members of the New York National Guard and creates new "War on Terror" license plates.

"In every major war since the Revolution, our citizen soldiers have been paying for the price of our freedom with their blood," said Senator Marcellino. "I believe that our State should be there for those New Yorkers who have paid the ultimate price. While no amount of money will lessen the pain of military families who lose a loved one in this war against terrorism, this plan will help those National Guard families with the wherewithal to plan for their futures."

"In times of war, thousands of dedicated and brave citizens answer the call to duty and put their lives on the line to protect our nation, and many of them make the ultimate sacrifice and give their lives in the name of freedom," said Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno. "This legislation would honor these brave citizens and ensure that the unbearable loss of a family member will not be made more difficult by financial hardship."

The bills were sent to the Assembly.