Albany, NY – This week, legislation introduced by Assemblyman Schiavoni that would provide greater access to a healthier lifestyle for New York’s veterans was passed unanimously by the Assembly.

A.6001-A/S.7784-A would allow select SUNY, CUNY, and community college campuses across the State of New York that offer membership programs to provide disabled Veterans with free or discounted memberships for the use of fitness and aquatic facilities. The bill is currently awaiting a vote on the floor of the State Senate.

The Suffolk County Community College system has already adopted this policy at all applicable campuses. Last year, state and county leaders stood together in support of this legislation at a press conference hosted at the Southampton Community College Eastern Campus. There, leaders emphasized the importance of statewide implementation to better support New York’s Veteran population, and this is a critical step forward to improve the quality of life for those who bravely served our nation.

New York State Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni said: “Thanks to advocacy by local leaders, this legislation was passed unanimously, and I am grateful to Speaker Heastie and my colleagues as this bill moves forward. This state-wide initiative would alleviate a financial burden for New York’s Veterans, increasing access to a more fit, healthier lifestyle. I am proud to sponsor A.6001, and I urge Governor Hochul to join me in supporting those who served our country with bravery and honor by signing this bill into law.”

New York State Assemblyman Steve Stern said: “As the Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee of the New York State Assembly, I am proud to join with Assemblyman Schiavoni and my colleagues to pass this important legislation that will enable our disabled veterans to utilize pools and fitness facilities at SUNY and CUNY campuses statewide at no cost to them.Physical fitness is an important part of overall health and wellness, and this initiative will ensure that those who have sacrificed so much for our great nation have access to activities that help with rehabilitation, provide support and camaraderie, and show our veterans and their families that we always have their backs. I applaud Assemblyman Schiavoni for his efforts and urge Governor Hochul to promptly sign this bill into law.”

Veterans of Foreign Wars Suffolk County District Commander William M. Hughes, Jr. said: “We Veterans in New York State are in full support of A6001 which would give access to health facilities at SUNY and CUNY campuses for disabled veterans. Physical exercise probably does more to treat Post Traumatic Stress and those at risk of suicide than so many other programs. Regular exercise creates higher self-esteem, lower depression and anxiety levels and reduces stress, and this includes all age levels and combats the isolation and loneliness that are sometimes treated with drugs that may create more harm than good. This legislation would not cost the taxpayer additional fees as these facilities are already in existence and are well equipped and these campuses also provide positive educational and social atmosphere.”