Senator Thomas and The Senate Majority Honor Fort Drum Day, Pass Legislation to Better Serve Our Veterans

Garden City, NY — Senator Kevin Thomas, together with the Senate Democratic Majority, 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, Senator Thomas voted for legislation supporting New York veterans and active duty military personnel. 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 Thomas has done to support the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces.

“Fort Drum Day gives us an opportunity to recognize those who have sacrificed so much for the freedoms we enjoy today,” Senator Kevin Thomas said. “The legislation passed on this important day shows the men and women who stepped up to serve our nation that we are stepping up to serve their needs. I am dedicated to breaking down barriers and providing the support that these protectors of freedom need once returning to civilian life and after serving our nation.”

The legislation passed Senator Thomas and Senate Democratic Majority includes:

·         The Outdoor RX Act : This bill S.6706A sponsored by Senator Brian Benjamin 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 S.3471A sponsored by Senator John Brooks 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 S.3647 sponsored by Senator Andrew Gounardes 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, S.2570, sponsored by Senator Jamaal Bailey, provides additional real property tax exemption for two or more veterans living in the same household.

·         Tax Exemptions for Property Owners: This bill, S.2930A, sponsored by Senator John Brooks, authorizes municipalities to offer real property tax exemption for residential property owned by active duty military personnel.

·         Establishes Military Opportunities Day: This bill, S.6057, sponsored by Senator John Brooks, 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.