(Long Island, NY) Senator Jack M. Martins (R-C-I, Mineola) today announced that legislation (S.2597) he sponsors to assist veterans who own a small business has passed the Senate.
The legislation establishes that three percent of all contracts awarded by the State of New York or any state agency or authority must be granted to veteran-owned businesses.
“Unfortunately, many of our returning veterans are having difficulty finding jobs when they come home,” said Senator Martins. “This bill requires that, out of all the state contracts New York awards to companies and businesses each year, three percent of those contracts would have to be specifically designated for veterans who own a small business. Our goal is to support those men and women who served our country, who want to work and support their families, but are struggling to make ends meet.”
The bill also creates a statewide certification program to verify those businesses that qualify as veteran-owned enterprises and clarifies the responsibilities of the state agencies that award contracts to veterans.
“We are very fortunate to have many brave men and women willing to fight overseas to protect our freedom and fight for democracy in the most dangerous parts of the world,” said Senator Martins. “The very least we can do is support the livelihoods of those who put their careers and their lives on hold serving long tours of duty and risked everything for our freedom.”
The bill was sent to the Assembly.
