On Thursday, February 16, I had the privilege to stand with Marine Lance Corporal Thomas "T. J." McDonnell as I announced a bill making it easier for returning veterans to receive additional civil service exam credits as an acknowledgement of their experience and invaluable service to our state and nation.

T.J., who earned a Purple Heart while serving in Iraq, took his civil service test prior to departing for active duty with the goal of eventually becoming a New York State trooper. However, when he returned home, a loophole in state law barred him from receiving veterans credits - merely because he had the initiative to take his exam before entering the service rather than after. My legislation closes the loophole so that T.J., and others like him, may receive the credit they deserve.

Veterans' Civil Service Credits

I also recently enjoyed a Sunday breakfast at the Patchen-Briggs VFW Post with representatives from the Rochester area's many veterans' groups. We discussed their legislative agenda, which addresses a wide range of issues, including health care, housing and tax relief. As always, I pledged my support for those who have defended our nation in some of history's greatest conflicts. My thanks to everyone who made this wonderful event possible, and for their dedication to a great cause.

In recent years, I have introduced a number of bills in recognition of the special brand of citizenship demonstrated by our men and women in the armed forces. I have called for increased penalties for the crime of desecrating a veteran's grave; free hunting and fishing for veterans in state parks; and the free use of state golf courses for veterans.

Most recently, in addition to my legislation regarding civil service credits for veterans, I have also co-sponsored a measure with my Assembly colleague, Ginny Fields, allowing local governments to grant 10% real property tax exemptions for those serving on active military duty in a combat zone. The hardships of serving in a forward area should not be compounded by financial worries at home, and this bill helps alleviate those concerns.

Military duty is difficult under the best of circumstances, and our men and women in uniform should not face further adversity on the home front. It's my honor to represent them and their interests. For more information on my veterans initiatives, use the links below.

Veterans' Property Tax Exemption

Increasing Penalties For Desecration of Veterans' Graves

Allowing Veterans Free Access to State Golf Courses

Waiving Fishing and Hunting License Fees for Veterans

About NYS Assemblyman Joseph D. Morelle

Since 1990, Assemblyman Joseph D. Morelle has represented the 132nd Assembly District, which includes portions of the city of Rochester and the Monroe County suburbs of Irondequoit and Brighton. During his tenure in the NYS Legislature, Joe has made economic development and expanding employment opportunities his top priority.