Bill > S08493

This bill provides a $250 World War II service bonus for certain veterans who served between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946, but were not previously eligible for bonuses under existing law. The bill addresses a discrepancy between New York State and federal recognition of World War II veteran status by offering compensation to qualifying service members or their next of kin. To be eligible, veterans must have been New York state residents prior to their military service, served in branches including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Army Air Forces, Merchant Marines, Public Health Service, or Coast and Geodetic Survey, and been discharged under honorable conditions. The Department of Veterans' Services will administer the bonus program, establishing a special fund and accepting applications for five years from the act's effective date. The bill aims to honor veterans who were previously overlooked and provide financial recognition of their service, with priority given to surviving spouses, children, parents, or siblings of eligible service members. Funding will come from existing, unobligated departmental funds, and the state will assist veterans in preparing their bonus claims.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8493