Recently, I joined a bipartisan letter requesting the Assembly One-House Budget Proposal to include a legal veterans tax credit law (A.4612). In the wise words of Harry S. Truman, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaired. they have earned our undying gratitude.” Veterans stand as the embodiment of sacrifice, courage, and resilience. It’s important as we continue this year to not lose sight of our own and address disparities our bravest may be facing.

Veterans still face barriers to accessing VA healthcare benefits, mental health care services, and legal assistance today. Currently, veterans make up 11% of homeless individuals, 8% of all incarcerated individuals, and 14% of suicide victims. As a legislator and veteran myself, it’s imperative to address these numbers head-on in hopes of alleviating barriers and using the current legal workforce to support veterans effectively. 

This proposal will incentivize free legal assistance for veterans, improving access to legal advice, representation, and support services. Attorneys are able to receive up to $1,500 for a minimum of fifty hours of pro bono legal services to veterans or disabled veterans annually. The least we can do for our veterans is to address their necessities and ensure a smooth transition from military to civilian life. 

Back in 2021, Senator Mark Walczyk and I united to propose funding for a Veterans Home in Jefferson and St. Lawrence County. Both counties are home to thousands of veterans. The closest veterans home is anywhere from 3-4 hours from the neighborhoods. There is a need for services and programs to be accessible and through an established State Home, the surrounding region can benefit from the long-term investment for Veteran care. 

This year, I'm introducing numerous measures to provide more assistance for veterans, including:

• Expediting the processing of pistol permit applications for military personnel and establishing reciprocity while they relocate to this area and initiate the permit application process (A.1600).
• Waiving fees for amending a license or non-driver identification card in order to add a veteran notation (A.1419).
• Establishing a designative license plate for Members of the 10th Mountain Division, with proceeds from the license plate fee being donated to support their scholarship program (A.1538).
• Issuing distinctive Legion of Valor license plates for Army Medal of Honor, Navy Medal of Honor, Air Force Medal of Honor, Army Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Coast Guard Cross, or Air Force Cross recipients (A.1311).

I am proud to be the representative of Fort Drum and champion the proud culture the North Country and Mohawk Valley has for our troops. I will continue to bring resources into the district and keep you aware of any programs or incentives available. Thank you for the sacrifices that illuminated the path to liberty and continuing to remind us that freedom is a powerful force that binds us as a nation.