New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08485

Introduced
5/16/25  
Refer
5/16/25  
Report Pass
5/19/25  
Refer
5/19/25  
Report Pass
6/9/25  
Engrossed
6/9/25  
Refer
6/9/25  

Caption

Requires the department of veterans' services to provide information on the department's website on volunteer opportunities available to veterans and to post relevant application forms that a qualified veteran can use to apply for volunteer opportunities.

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to amend existing provisions within the veterans' services law, specifically regarding the support offered to veterans and their families. By explicitly including volunteer opportunities as a part of the services offered by the Department, the bill aligns with the state's goal of honoring and utilizing the talents of veterans in various roles, including working with local fire departments and emergency services providers. This may lead to increased engagement of veterans in their communities, promoting a sense of belonging and purpose post-service.

Summary

Bill A08485 is aimed at enhancing the support and resources available to veterans in New York State. It mandates the Department of Veterans' Services to provide comprehensive information regarding volunteer opportunities for veterans, ensuring that they can access public service roles effectively. This initiative intends to create an inclusive environment where veterans feel valued, integrating them into community service roles which can enhance their reintegration into civilian life.

Contention

While many support the bill for its potential to provide valuable opportunities to veterans, there may be concerns regarding the effectiveness of such programs. Critics could argue that simply posting information on a website may not be sufficient to inspire veterans to volunteer, highlighting the necessity for additional outreach and support mechanisms to ensure the uptake of these opportunities. Furthermore, the bill's implementation may require the allocation of resources for training and support to help veterans transition into these roles effectively, which could be a point of contention during legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

NY S00274

Same As Requires the department of veterans' services to provide information on the department's website on volunteer opportunities available to veterans and to post relevant application forms that a qualified veteran can use to apply for volunteer opportunities.

Previously Filed As

NY A07350

Establishes a task force on veterans employment opportunities in the department of veterans' services.

NY S07421

Establishes a task force on veterans employment opportunities in the department of veterans' services.

NY S08783

Requires the department of labor create and maintain a list of available careers and job openings for veterans in the state of New York and provide such list to the department of veterans' services; requires such list to be placed on the department of veterans' services website.

NY A10609

Requires the department of labor create and maintain a list of available careers and job openings for veterans in the state of New York and provide such list to the department of veterans' services; requires such list to be placed on the department of veterans' services website.

NY S08784

Requires the department of motor vehicles compile a list of veterans who apply for a veteran driver's license and provide such list to the department of veterans' services to aid in outreach efforts by the department of veterans' services.

NY A10082

Requires the department of motor vehicles compile a list of veterans who apply for a veteran driver's license and provide such list to the department of veterans' services to aid in outreach efforts by the department of veterans' services.

NY A08106

Requires the notification to veterans of the availability of veterans' services free of charge by federal, state, and local veteran agencies; requires certain disclosures to be provided when notifying veterans about available services; provides for civil penalties for any violations.

NY A05511

Requires all social service's applications to be made publicly available online on the department's website.

NY S06523

Requires the department of veterans' services to establish and maintain, in consultation and collaboration with other state agencies, a searchable database on the department's website providing resources available in the state for veterans, members of the uniformed services, and their families.

NY A07701

Requires the department of veterans' services to establish and maintain, in consultation and collaboration with other state agencies, a searchable database on the department's website providing resources available in the state for veterans, members of the uniformed services, and their families.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.