Senator Parker’s Bill to Help Veterans Who Experience Sexual Trauma Signed into Law

Albany, N.Y. - On Monday, State Senator Kevin Parker’s legislation to provide relief to veterans who experienced sexual trauma while serving in the armed forces was signed into law by Governor Andrew. Senator Parker’s legislation, Senate Bill S.5006, now mandates that the New York State Division of Veterans’ Services maintain a Military Sexual Trauma Portal on their website that will furnish information for veterans on available treatment options, counseling, and support services essential for survivors of sexual trauma to move on and live full, meaningful, lives.  

Upon the signing of the new law, Senator Parker said, "Our veterans risk their lives every day to protect our nation, and we must do everything we can to help ensure they have the proper care and support they need when they get home. Military Sexual Trauma affects so many of our brave veterans and this new law will make it easy for them to access the services they need to get help. I thank Governor Cuomo for signing this bill into law and for being a champion for our service members," concluded Senator Parker.

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, one in five women responded "yes" when screened for Military Sexual Trauma. "Far too many veterans have experienced sexual trauma in the military, which can lead to life-long consequences and years of recovery," Governor Cuomo said. "It is our duty to support our veterans once they get home, and this new law will help survivors of military sexual trauma find the resources they need to seek help and counseling and move onto the next chapter of their lives."

About Senator Kevin Parker:

Senator Kevin Parker represents Brooklyn’s ethnically diverse 21st Senate District comprised of sections of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Ditmas Park, Kensington, Windsor Terrace, and Park Slope.  A lifelong Brooklyn resident, Senator Parker has the honor of serving his community as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Telecommunications, and on the Senate Standing Committees on Finance; Rules; Alcoholism & Substance Abuse; Insurance; and Banks.

For more information on Senator Parker, please visit www.nysenate.gov/senators/kevin-s-parker