A Small Thank You To Deserving Heroes

ALBANY, 03/24/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced senate approval of legislation he co-sponsors, to expand career opportunities for service-connected disabled veteran owned small businesses. 

“Our military members fight to defend our freedoms and preserve our way of life,” said Senator Seward.  “We owe these men and women a great debt of gratitude, especially those who suffer combat injuries.  After sacrificing to protect and secure the American Dream, we must make sure these heroes are able to realize their own dreams when they return home.”

The legislation (S.6865) will create a six percent state contract set-aside for service-connected disabled- veteran owned small businesses. The “Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act” will ensure New York State’s service-connected disabled veterans are better able to compete for millions of dollars in state contracts.   The set-aside is very similar to the highly successful three percent preference that the federal government offers. A three-way agreement on the bill was announced during the governor’s Veterans and Military Families Summit held last week in Albany.

“This program will mean not only a job, but a career, and an opportunity for our returning disabled veterans and their families.  This measure will also enhance New York’s private sector by employing our best and brightest – men and women who possess highly-technical and specific skills, along with extraordinary integrity and character,” Seward added. 

According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, New York State is home to nearly 900,000 veterans, 600,000 of whom have served during periods of conflict. According to Governor Cuomo, there are roughly 106,000 service-connected disabled veterans in New York State. 

“The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act is a long overdue thank-you to our deserving military heroes.  I look forward to the winning results this measure will produce,” Seward concluded.

The bill was sent to the assembly.

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