PRESS RELEASES
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Paulin: Increased Tax Exemptions For Cold War Vets Take Effect Jan 2
For more information, contact: Allison Esposito, Communications Director, New York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin
Work: (914) 723-1115
EspositoA@assembly.state.ny.us
[The new law (Ch. 235 of 2009) increases the real property tax exemption for Cold War veterans.]
Over a year ago, Warren Gross, a Cold War veteran and co-op owner from New Rochelle, reached out to me about the need for property tax exemptions to be extended to Cold War veterans who live in co-ops. Their group had been left out of previous legislation. From there, I worked with my staff to draft the bill that passed the Assembly and Senate last summer. I’m proud that on Jan. 2nd, this exemption will become a reality for many deserving veterans.
The legislation will increase property tax exemptions for Cold War veterans who stood at the ready when combat seemed imminent, bringing their exemptions in line with those offered to other veterans.
The Cold War lasted 46 years from 1945 to 1991. Our Cold War veterans endured tense times and served during two wars, both the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Their service kept our nation secure, and their sacrifice made peace a reality for all of us. This law lends support for countless veterans, many of whom are retired and in financial situations where every little bit helps.
“I see so many negative things happening to vets, this bill passage gives me a renewed faith in the government’s ability to support veterans,” said Warren Gross, “Assemblywoman Paulin has worked so hard to pass this important bill.”
All veterans who give their time to our country, both in times of war and times of peace, are at risk for harm and should be afforded equal treatment and benefits.
New York State has a host of benefits for veterans and their families, like the state’s Homes for Veterans Program, which offers fixed-rate, low-interest mortgages to veterans and their spouses through the New York State Mortgage Agency (SONYMA). There are also annuity payments for Gold Star parents, scholarships, burial allowances, and restrictions on foreclosure actions. Visit www.veterans.ny.gov for more information about state programs for veterans.
New York State also offers the Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption to provide a partial exemption to wartime veterans, veterans who received expeditionary medals or the spouses of qualified veterans. This new law takes it another step further by expanding availability to all Cold War veterans.
Westchester County has opted to extend these benefits to local Cold War veterans. Check with your local tax assessor to see what benefits may be available to you.
If you need more information on this new law, contact my district office at (914) 723-1115 or e-mail us at: paulina@assembly.state.ny.us
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