Senator James L. Seward (right) welcomes Mike McDermott from Homer Post 465 to Albany (photo provided)
Editor's Note: The following is a press release from the office of New York State Sen. James Seward.
ALBANY, N.Y. — State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref – Oneonta) met Tuesday in Albany with American Legion representatives from throughout the 51st Senate District, including Mike McDermott from Homer Post 465. The meeting was part of the American Legion Department of New York annual legislative day.
“Our proud servicemen and women make great sacrifices defending our rights and freedoms,” said Senator Seward. “I was pleased to discuss their concerns and learn more about legislation supported by the American Legion. Now it’s my turn to go to work for our veterans and take action on measures that will better their lives – they’ve earned that consideration and so much more.”
Senator Seward is a long-standing supporter of veteran issues, recently advocating for a new career assistance program to connect veterans with jobs. The proposal, included as part of the senate’s Jobs and Opportunity Agenda, would create a veterans career assistance program within the SUNY and CUNY system to assist veterans with resume writing and employment placement services. Another measure would allow the rewarding of high school diplomas based upon military experience to any veteran who has served in active duty and was honorably discharged but was unable to complete their schooling.
As the state budget debate intensifies, Senator Seward will be advocating for funding to support vital programs important to veterans cut from the governor’s budget proposal.
Senator Seward also co-sponsors legislation to increase penalties for violence against active duty and reserve military members (S.927), establish a task force on veteran employment opportunities (S.936), increase annuities paid to blind veterans (S.200).
