Bill > S05246

This bill expands the definition of "veteran" in New York state law to include members of two additional commissioned corps: the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Public Health Service. By amending three separate sections of state law - the economic development law, public officers law, and military law - the bill ensures that members of these scientific service corps are now eligible for the same benefits and protections traditionally afforded to military veterans. Specifically, these changes mean that members of the NOAA and Public Health Service commissioned corps who have received an honorable or general discharge, or who have a qualifying condition or are discharged LGBT veterans, will now be entitled to the same leave benefits on Memorial Day and Veterans' Day, and will be considered veterans for the purposes of state employment and benefit provisions. This expansion recognizes the important public service contributions of these scientific professionals who serve the nation in specialized roles, bringing their professional expertise to critical areas like environmental research, maritime operations, and public health.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5246