S5018

The New York State Senate passed Senate Print 5018, sponsored by Senator Scarcella-Spanton, an act to amend the Veterans' Services Law. The bill passed 51-0 and requires the director of the Division of Veterans Affairs to collaborate with SUNY and CUNY to develop a Veteran Career Assistance Program aimed at helping veterans translate their military skills into civilian employment. Scarcella-Spanton, a CUNY graduate whose husband is a veteran and Brooklyn College alumnus, said the program builds on existing veteran support services at the state university systems. The measure takes effect 120 days after becoming law.

The New York State Senate passed S5018, legislation establishing veteran career assistance programs within CUNY and SUNY, on a vote of 60-0. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Scarcella-Spanton, creates resume writing and employment placement services to help military veterans translate their experience to civilian careers as they pursue higher education in New York. Sen. Scarcella-Spanton, the newly appointed chair of the Senate's Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, explained the measure during floor debate, noting it represents the first veterans-centered bill passed under her leadership. She commended her predecessor, Sen. Brooks, for his work on veterans legislation and emphasized the importance of supporting those leaving the armed forces. As a CUNY graduate and spouse of a U.S. Army veteran who also attended CUNY, Scarcella-Spanton said the legislation ensures veterans "will have access to career assistance resources" as they transition to civilian life. The bill takes effect 120 days after becoming law.