Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I-Pulaski) is pleased to announce his support for two newly-introduced bills that will create opportunities for veterans.

Barclay is urging his colleagues to prioritize passage of A.9774 during the upcoming legislative session. This bill would establish the G.I.V.E. Back NY program (Giving Internships for disabled Veterans not fully Employed)—a pilot initiative that would set aside 10 percent of Assembly Session Internships and Senate Student Program spots for service-disabled veterans.

“No one is more deserving of an inside look at our government than the brave men and women who made enormous sacrifices to protect our freedoms,” said Barclay. “I hope the new skills and experience our veterans derive from these internships will help them build fulfilling professional careers and encourage many to pursue more jobs in public service,” he added.

Barclay is also calling on his legislative colleagues to support A.9899, a bill that provides an array of benefits to active duty and retired members of the National Guard and Reserves. The legislation would enhance pay, create property tax breaks, provide tuition benefits, and grant free access to state parks.

“Tax breaks and tuition awards are small ways for us to show our appreciation but they can have a big impact on the life of a service member,” said Barclay.