By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, approved a package designed to benefit veterans in the Bay State by broadening the definition of a veteran, increasing tax credits and state benefits for which they are eligible and modernizing the services on which they rely.
Provisions include requiring a public school district to provide support services to a military-connected student when a parent or guardian is called to active duty; allowing Gold Star Family spouses to remarry without the penalty of losing their annuity benefit; increasing from $2,000 to $2,500 the amount of a tax credit for each qualified veteran hired by an employer; eliminating the fee for specialty license plates for veterans; increasing local flexibility for veterans property tax exemptions; and allowing municipalities to increase the property tax obligation of a veteran in exchange for volunteer services;
Other provisions include modernizing statute language for inclusivity and standardization to ensure gender- neutral and inclusive language while removing antiquated references; allowing veterans to be reimbursed for visits to outpatient behavioral health providers; providing consistent care to veterans by codifying medical assistance benefits; and creating a working group to study and make recommendations on the use of psychedelics as an alternative therapy for mental health treatments for veterans.
“Very few are brave enough to raise their hand and pledge to defend our nation and the values that we hold dear, no matter the cost,” said Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield), chair of the Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. ”It is on us – as a commonwealth – to always remember, recognize and honor that sacrifice however we can.”
“As a commander in the United States Naval Reserves and an Iraq War veteran, it is my great privilege to serve in a body that commits itself time and time again to honoring our nation’s armed service members,” said Sen. Mike Rush (D-Boston), vice chair of the Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. “This legislation passed by the Senate maintains our state’s promise to our service members and their families that they will be honored as they have done for us.”
“We don’t rest on our laurels in Massachusetts,” said Sen. John Cronin (D-Fitchburg). “This bill modernizes our laws to ensure that the commonwealth remains second to none delivering veterans services and ensures our vets have the support needed to repatriate into our communities.”
The House has approved a different version of the measure and a House-Senate conference committee will work to hammer out a compromise version.
(A “Yes” vote is for the bill.)
Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes