Addabbo Legislation to Assist Veterans Service Organizations approved by Senate Veterans Committee

Howard Beach, NY (March 22, 2016) Calling it a step closer to “giving back to those who have given of themselves in service to our nation,” Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. announced the recent committee approval of his legislation (S.2497) that would enable New Yorkers to check off a box on their personal income tax returns to assist veterans service organizations.

“The proposal would establish a veterans service organization fund, which would be supported through the generosity of  New York residents who decide that they want to contribute to veterans groups when they file their state personal income tax returns,” said Addabbo, who serves as the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs. “I am grateful that my colleagues on the Senate Veterans Committee have joined with me in advancing this initiative.”

Under the bill, New York residents would be able to choose a new income tax “check off” box on their returns to voluntarily support groups that provide services to veterans. The contributions would be held in a fund maintained by the State Comptroller and the State Division of Taxation and Finance, and monies would be provided to veterans’ service organizations to enable them to better assist former servicemen and women in accessing necessary benefits and programs. The contributions would be gifts and not reduce the amount of tax owed by check-off program participants. 

“Veterans are often in need of a variety of services when they return home, but do not always know where to turn to find out about an array of programs that exist to help them,” Addabbo said. “Veterans’ service organizations serve as a key liaison between veterans and appropriate government agencies, and their efforts are vital to ensuring that our returning servicemen and women gain access to the health, employment, education and other services available to them.” 

Other state check-off programs in New York State include those that support breast cancer research, prostate cancer research, wildlife and conservation efforts, Alzheimer’s disease services and state veterans’ cemeteries. 

“I think it’s fitting that New York taxpayers be provided with the opportunity to voluntarily support brave and selfless men and women who have put their lives on hold at home and their lives at risk overseas, all in service to our country,” said Addabbo. “By helping veterans service organizations expand their services, we will be thanking our former servicemen and women in concrete and meaningful ways.”

Having passed the Senate Veterans Committee, the bill’s next step toward full Senate passage is consideration by the Senate Finance Committee. In the Assembly, where the bill is sponsored by Assemblymember Mike Miller, the legislation has already been approved by the full membership.