Sanders' Bill to Increase Vet Employment Passes Senate

State Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Rochdale Village) is proud to announce that the senate has unanimously passed, by a vote of 61-0, legislation he introduced aimed at increasing employment opportunities for veterans. The bill amends the education law to make it easier for veterans who move to New York State from elsewhere in the country to continue practicing in their chosen careers.

The bill (S.3776) states that a veteran who has an out-of-state license in a field which is recognized as a profession under New York’s education law may be granted a temporary license to practice in this state for the length of time that takes for their new permanent license to be approved.

In addition, if it is determined that the education, training and prior admission to the practice in one’s previous state are roughly equivalent to New York’s requirements, then such veteran will be approved to practice in New York.

Many of applicable professions covered by New York’s education law relate to medical practitioners such as dentists, chiropractors, optometrists, and podiatrists. However, a variety of other jobs are also included such as social workers, massage therapists, nutritionists, athletic trainers, nurses, engineers and architects.
 
“As a Marine Corps veteran and as someone who represents a district where many veterans live, I have seen firsthand how difficult it can be for this population to find work after they return to civilian life,” Sanders said. “This legislation will allow us to honor our veterans for their service by ensuring that their education, training, and admission to practice a profession are respected in this state.”
 
Having now passed the senate, Sanders’ legislation will move on to the Assembly where a companion bill (A9842) has been introduced by Assembly Member Michaelle Solages. Once it gets the green light there, it will be delivered to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.