Bill > A06934

This bill enacts the "Gold Star Families Support Act", a comprehensive legislation designed to provide extensive support to families who have lost a loved one in military service. The bill establishes several key provisions: first, it provides state-paid health insurance for members of Gold Star families, which includes veterans, their spouses, surviving spouses, and children, with full coverage through the New York State of Health marketplace. The bill also creates a Gold Star Family Tuition Fund that covers full educational expenses from pre-K through graduate and post-graduate school at public and private institutions. Additionally, the legislation expands employment opportunities for veterans and Gold Star family members by modifying civil service laws, establishes job training programs, and creates a housing assistance program through the New York State Housing Finance Agency to help prevent homelessness. The bill further provides tax relief by exempting Gold Star family members from state income tax starting in 2025 and modifies various existing laws to broaden the definition of who qualifies as a Gold Star family member. The comprehensive nature of the bill aims to provide meaningful financial, healthcare, educational, and employment support to families who have sacrificed a loved one in military service, recognizing their significant contribution to the nation.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6934