S291

The New York State Senate passed legislation establishing a veterans internship program in the Legislature, with the bill receiving 58 affirmative votes. Senate Print 291, sponsored by Sen. Tedisco, amends the Legislative Law to provide veterans with the same internship opportunities previously available only to college students. In remarks explaining his vote, Tedisco argued that veterans who have sacrificed for the nation and its representative democracy deserve the chance to witness government operations firsthand. The bill would provide veterans with stipends, resume credentials, and work experience alongside college interns. Tedisco emphasized that veterans exemplify work ethic, loyalty, honor, and patriotism, and can serve as role models to other interns and legislative staff. He noted that many veterans return from service without recent workforce experience or income, making the stipend particularly valuable. The legislation passed on a bipartisan basis without recorded opposition or amendments.