Last week, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation (A.6551/S.2238) to establish a reserved bed day policy for people residing in New York State Veterans’ Homes. The legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages will ensure that veterans do not lose their spot in New York State Veterans’ Homes during medical leave.
“No veteran should be at risk of losing their bed in a New York State Veterans’ Home because they face a medical emergency,” Solages said. “By requiring facilities throughout the state to establish a bed hold policy, we will protect the livelihoods of veterans and ensure they have access to quality care and housing. This law will also offer financial reimbursement to New York State Veterans’ Homes to allow them to stay afloat during financially difficult times.”
Requiring NYS Veterans’ Homes to reserve a bed when a veteran temporarily leaves prevents individuals from losing their housing. This bill also assists veterans’ homes by requiring the state to reimburse them for reserving beds for veterans who are out on leave. NYS-run veterans’ homes were greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and this new stream of funding will go a long way in helping veterans and their families.
“On behalf of all of us at the Long Island State Veterans Home we are grateful to the legislature for taking action on this important issue,” Fred S. Sganga, executive director of the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University said. “New York State veterans have risked their lives to protect the everyday freedoms we enjoy as Americans. We should be doing everything we can for any veteran who resides in any of the five State Veterans Homes in our great state. This new legislation will give peace of mind to all those who have served, as well as their families. New York must continue to be a leader in serving our veterans. This bill proves that we honor their service to our nation.”
The signing of this bill is a culmination of years of advocacy by veteran’s organizations, legislators, and veterans who have served our country.
