Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Columbia, Dutchess) announced the passage of legislation she sponsored that ensures veterans of recent conflicts receive the property tax exemptions to which they are entitled. The measure directs the Division of Veterans’ Affairs and the Department of Taxation and Finance to establish annual reminders for assessors that veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq are eligible for the veteran alternative real property tax exemption (A.4859).

“Our brave servicemen and servicewomen put their lives on the line to protect and serve our country,” Barrett said. “Veterans of more recent conflicts should be getting the same resources and support when they return home as older veterans receive.”

The measure aims to correct a disparity that has reportedly led to the rejection of some veterans’ applications that are eligible for the exemption. Specifically, the bill will remind assessors that the Persian Gulf conflict referenced in the real property tax law includes, but is not limited to, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation New Dawn and Operation Inherent Resolve.

“The Assembly has passed this legislation supporting our Afghanistan and Iraq conflict veterans for four consecutive years, but it does not move in the Senate. I call on the State Senate to do the right thing and acknowledge that these veterans deserve their tax exemption and end this unnecessary confusion,” added Barrett.