Honoring Our Military on Veterans Day

This Monday, it is important that we remember the great sacrifices that our military personnel have given to our nation. There is no greater service a citizen can give to their country than to place their life on the line so that our freedoms and democratic principles remain intact. 

Click here to watch my Veterans Day Video Tribute.

As your Senator, I am always looking for positive, meaningful ways to show how much we value the service of New York State's heroic veterans. Below are just a few examples of important initiatives and opportunities that help us honor and support these courageous men and women.  

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NYS Senate’s “Hire-a-Vet” Plan Enacted

When New York’s brave servicemen and women return home, they should be welcomed with the promise of economic opportunity. That’s why I supported a new tax credit for businesses that hire veterans returning home from military service.  That credit will equal 10 to 15 percent of wages paid.  After they have sacrificed so much to serve our nation, our veterans deserve the opportunity to secure good paying jobs.

$4 Million Available for Veterans to Expand Their Businesses

The State Comptroller’s Office recently announced the availability of $4 million in competitive fixed-rate small business loans for military veterans through the New York Business Development Corp. The loans, which are guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, are provided to veteran-owned, New York-based small businesses for working capital, equipment or real property. For information about the program and company eligibility, click here.

Veteran Distinction on NYS Drivers Licenses Now Available

Residents who are military veterans can now apply for a special designation on their New York State driver’s license when they apply for a license renewal.

If you are a qualified U.S. military veteran, who was honorably discharged, and you have a NYS drivers license, learner permit or non-driver photo ID card, you can have the word "Veteran" printed on the upper left hand of your photo document. This measure, which I proudly supported in the New York State Senate, eliminates the need to carry separate documentation to prove that you are a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. 

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As we honor all of the Veterans of the United States military on Monday, I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.