Senator Metzger and Lawmakers Honor Fort Drum Day, Pass Legislation to Better Serve Our Veterans

Albany, NY...Senator Metzger (SD-42) and lawmakers celebrated the 9th Annual Fort Drum Day by welcoming members of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division to the State Senate Chamber. In honor of Fort Drum Day, the Senate passed a package of legislation supporting New York veterans and active duty military personnel, including five bills co-sponsored by Metzger. The legislation expands tax exemptions available to military personnel and veterans, establishes career support services, and implements the “Outdoor Rx Act” to help veterans transition back to civilian life. These bills build on the work Senator Metzger has done to support the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces.

“This week, in honor of Fort Drum Day, we passed a package of legislation to support New York veterans and active duty military personnel, including legislation I co-sponsor (S2570) to provide property tax exemptions to households with two or more veterans, and legislation (S3471A) to create a Veteran Career Assistance Program with SUNY and CUNY institutions that will support veterans in pursuing careers of their choice. Our veterans have served our country bravely, and we owe it to them to provide them with the support they need to thrive,” said Senator Metzger.

The legislation passed by the Senate with Senator Metzger's support includes:

The Outdoor RX Act: This bill, S6706A, will require the Division of Veterans’ Services to work with other state offices to review issues facing veterans, their abilities to access state parks, lands, and facilities. 

Veteran Career Assistance Program: This bill, S3471A, will create a program within SUNY and CUNY systems to assist veterans in resume building and career searching. It will provide veterans with the tools to translate their military experiences and skills into a resume, and supportive employment placement services.

Veteran Civil Service Credit: This bill, S3647, will allow anyone who has served in the military to receive preferences and additional credits on competitive examinations for civil service appointments. Currently, the credit is only available to veterans who served during a time of war. 

Increases the Alternative Veterans Exemption: This bill, S2570, provides additional real property tax exemption for two or more veterans living in the same household.

Tax Exemptions for Property Owners: This bill, S2930A, authorizes municipalities to offer real property tax exemption for residential property owned by active duty military personnel.

Establishes Military Opportunities Day: This bill, S6057, establishes November 1st of each year as Military Opportunities Day, to show support and encouragement of military service recruiters and those who seek to enlist in military service.