Albany, NY – On the evening of Veterans Day, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a six‑bill package aimed at strengthening support for veterans, service members and their families across New York State. The legislation, announced alongside the lighting of 17 state landmarks in green under the “Operation Green Light” initiative, seeks to reduce financial and administrative hurdles that many veterans face.
Key provisions of the package
A10921A/S10398A – Disabled Veteran Home Modification Act: Allows local governments to waive or reduce permitting fees for home improvements needed to accommodate a service‑connected disability, making homes safer and more accessible for veterans.
A9351A/S8571A – Universal Symbol of Access License Plates: Enables veterans with a 100% disability rating to obtain the universal symbol of access plates using their existing federal rating, simplifying the application process.
A11233A/S9806A – Early Vehicle Registration Renewal: Grants active‑duty service members the ability to renew vehicle registrations early when they are deployed or otherwise engaged in official military duties.
A3450A/S3194A – Persian Gulf Conflict Property‑Tax Clarification: Updates the definition of the Persian Gulf conflict period to ensure veterans who served during that era can claim the property‑tax exemptions they earned.
A5578A/S1788A – Expanded Military‑Record Eligibility for Tax Relief: Broadens the types of military records that can be used to prove eligibility for additional property‑tax exemptions, including discharge papers, awards and hazardous‑duty pay records.
A6001A/S7784A – Free or Discounted Campus Gym Access: Provides veterans with disabilities free or reduced‑cost memberships at State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) campus gyms and swimming pools.
Lawmakers praise the measures
State Senator Monica R. Martinez emphasized that veterans should not bear extra costs when making essential home modifications, thanking Governor Hochul for signing the bill. Assemblymember Steve Stern, who sponsored the Disabled Veteran Home Modification Act, called the legislation a vital step toward preserving the dignity of veterans and their families.
Senator Chris Ryan highlighted the importance of flexibility for active‑duty members, noting that the early‑renewal provision eases a common administrative burden. Assemblymember William Magnarelli echoed the sentiment, praising the universal‑symbol‑of‑access plate bill and the early‑renewal measure as concrete examples of New York’s commitment to those who serve.
Senator James Skoufis and Senator Michelle Hinchey both stressed that the property‑tax updates ensure equal access to benefits for all veterans, regardless of when or how they served. Assemblymember Pamela J. Hunter, a veteran herself, said the changes remove unnecessary hurdles and expand financial relief for countless families.
Senator Jessica Scarcella‑Spanton, chair of the Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, highlighted the campus‑gym initiative as a way to promote physical, mental and emotional health for disabled veterans, noting that cost should never be a barrier to fitness.
Operation Green Light
In a symbolic gesture, 17 state landmarks—including the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and the New York State Capitol—were illuminated in green after sunset. New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Dr. Viviana M. DeCohen said the glowing landmarks serve as “beacons of gratitude,” reminding every veteran that their service matters and their well‑being remains a priority.
Governor Hochul remarked, “The brave men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform have made extraordinary sacrifices to defend our freedoms. Today we honor New Yorkers who have served and ensure they receive the support, recognition and resources they deserve.”
The six bills now become law, providing immediate relief to veterans and active‑duty service members throughout the Empire State.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
