New York veterans get enhanced support under new laws signed by Gov. Hochul

On Wednesday, as Americans honored members of the armed forces, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the passage of six laws to help them access benefits, including property tax exemptions.

Veterans of the Persian Gulf conflict will be able to tap into certain property tax benefits under a separate law, according to a release from Hochul's office. The legislation, which takes effect immediately, widens the conflict dates for the benefit.

Another law expands the types of records that members of the armed forces who served in combat zones can use to more easily apply for additional property tax exemptions. They can now submit "discharge records, military awards and records of hazardous duty pay," to apply for these benefits, according to the release. That law also takes effect immediately.

"The brave men and women who have worn our nation's uniform have made extraordinary sacrifices to defend our freedoms, and New York could not be more grateful for their service," Hochul said in a statement. "This Veterans Day, we honor the New Yorkers who have served our country and recognize the tremendous sacrifices made by them and their families by ensuring they have the support, recognition and resources they deserve."

Several of the laws benefit veterans with disabilities. One of them grants veterans with disabilities free or reduced memberships to public fitness and recreational facilities at the State University of New York and City University of New York, state officials said. The law will take effect 60 days after it was signed.

The Disabled Veteran Home Modification Act will allow municipalities to waive or reduce building department fees on home renovations needed to mitigate service-connected conditions.

The act "ensures that our veterans who return from service with life-changing injuries or permanent disabilities can renovate their homes without undue financial burdens," State Assemb Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills) said in a statement.

 "This legislation provides veterans and their loved ones with the critical financial relief they deserve to remain in the homes that they love with dignity," Stern added. "Local permitting fees and other administrative expenses can increase costs and delay needed improvements." 

The legislation, sponsored by State Sen. Monica Martinez (D-Brentwood), is expected to take effect on Dec. 1.

"Veterans who have given so much in service to our country shouldn’t face a financial burden when they need to make their homes more accessible," Martinez said in a statement. 

One of the new laws allows veterans whom the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs deemed 100% disabled to use that rating to acquire license plates with the universal symbol of access. Another allows active duty members to renew their vehicle registrations early if it expires after they are scheduled to deploy or fulfill other military duties.