Senator Gianaris, Assemblywoman Simotas Secure Increased Property Tax Relief for Veterans

Michael Gianaris

December 17, 2014

Senator Michael Gianaris and Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas joined community and veteran leaders and Senator Joe Addabbo, Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans Committee, to announce that their bill to provide increased property tax relief to veterans has been signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo, bringing our veterans property tax exemption into the 21st century by updating a decades-old benefit for those who have served our country. The bill will immediately raise the property tax exemption for veterans from $5,000 to $7,500, remedying the effects of inflation on a policy meant to make life easier for servicemen and women returning home.

“The passage of this legislation is a well-deserved step towards repaying the tremendous debt of gratitude that we owe to veterans for all their sacrifices on our behalf,” said Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas. “By easing their tax burden, we help ensure that those who honorably served their country can stay in their homes and live in the security that they have earned.”

“It is incumbent upon all of us to take care of our veterans when they return home. Today we celebrate making it easier for the courageous men and women who have served our country to own a home anywhere in New York. With this new law, we send a message to all those who serve that New York welcomes you back with open arms and will do everything we can to repay you for keeping our country safe,” said Senator Michael Gianaris.

"While the cost of living has increased, it is far outweighed by the cost paid by our veterans. Veterans need security and support, both emotional and fiscal, and this legislation is a solid step in the right direction towards creating a better quality of life for the people who gave their country so much. The value of the dollar has fluctuated, but the dedication of our former service men and women has remained strong. I thank Senator Gianaris and Assemblymember Simotas for their work and commitment," said Senator Joe Addabbo, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs and Homeland Security.   

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