Albany, NY – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) announced passage of legislation (A5660/S4049) she sponsors that would direct key state agencies to gather information on New York’s homeless veterans and the appropriate services they need. As part of the study, recommendations and solutions would be provided to combat this growing epidemic.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that veterans in our communities have full access to the services they need. For veterans navigating homelessness, the challenges are even greater,” said Assemblywoman Rozic. “This legislation creates solutions to best assist the men and women who have sacrificed so much in service to our country.”

The study would include information on the number of veterans who are homeless and analysis of gender as it relates to homelessness. It would also include data on the number of children of veterans who are homeless, placement of such children, unemployment rates, and cases of military sexual trauma experience while on active duty.

According to the Veterans Alliance, on a single night in 2018, 37,878 veterans were experiencing homelessness nationally.

“Veteran integration back into civilian life can be strenuous, looking for work, providing for their families, and securing a stable home. Unfortunately, homelessness rates among veterans have hit staggering figures, whether for those who have served recently during the Global War on Terror, as well as during previous eras and conflicts,” said Ryan Graham, Commander, Queens County Council of Veterans of Foreign Wars. “Assembly Bill A5660, introduced by Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, not only brings this issue to light but delves deeply into finding the reasons behind Veteran homelessness in the State of New York, capturing and understanding the root causes, in being able to combat this issue currently and for future generations of warriors.

The Queens County Council VFW applauds Assemblywoman Rozic for her advocacy on the Veteran front, serving those who have borne scars while serving in the United States Armed Forces.”

Rozic, who chairs the Office of State-Federal Relations, added, “Though homelessness among veterans in New York has decreased over the years, local efforts to reduce homelessness are still needed as funding for these critical federal programs remains uncertain.”

Rozic’s bill passed in the State Senate where it is sponsored by Senator Kevin Parker earlier this year.