SENATOR AMEDORE MOVES VETERANS’ INITIATIVES THROUGH SENATE

Senator George Amedore today announced legislation he co-sponsors that would allow all honorably discharged veterans who are members of the Public Employee Retirement System to purchase up to three years of service credit for their time served in the military has again passed the State Senate. The bill (S.7160) has been passed by both houses of the Legislature with overwhelming support for the past two years, but was subsequently vetoed by Governor Cuomo two years in a row.

“This legislation would ensure that our service men and women get an important benefit that is long overdue,” said Senator George Amedore. “For the past two years, Governor Cuomo has vetoed this bill, saying the issue should be addressed within the state budget. While the Senate included it in our one-house budget once again this year, the Governor did not. Enough is enough – this legislation needs to get done this year.”

Under current law, service credit is available only to those who served during certain dates or in certain countries or conflicts. This legislation would provide the same benefit to every veteran who in honorably discharged, regardless of when and where they served.

“Every man and woman who makes the choice to wear our nation’s uniform to defend our freedoms should be eligible for this pension credit,” said Senator Amedore.

Another bill (S.3058) that passed today, also co-sponsored by Senator Amedore, would provide hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses free of charge to active duty members of the military who are New York State residents and stationed in New York.

In addition, legislation was passed (S.6856A) to establish a New York State World War I Anniversary Commemoration Commission to help promote the 100th anniversary of World War I, which is taking place between 2014-2018.

The commission established under this bill would help New York organize commemorative events, educational programs to teach our students about this important part of our state and nation’s history, and encourage tourism.

The bills were sent to the Assembly.

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