By Bob Katzen
Gov. Healey signed into law legislation 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 increasing benefits for disabled veterans and Gold Star family members; bolstering new and existing initiatives for municipalities and businesses to support veterans; creating comprehensive services for active-duty service members and military families; expanding the scope of the Veterans Equality Review Board; and codifying medical, behavioral health and dental benefits.
The measure also requires several working groups to review post-traumatic stress disorder in veterans, mental health treatments for veterans and overall quality of life for veterans in Massachusetts.
Supporters said the legislation will boost support for hundreds of thousands of individuals across the state who have served in the United States military, including nearly 30,000 women veterans and thousands of LGBTQ+ veterans.
“This is our most comprehensive veterans legislation in over 20 years, and it’s the result of Massachusetts coming together to make veterans our priority,” said Gov. Healey. “From the start, our administration has been dedicated to revitalizing veterans’ services in Massachusetts, ensuring that every hero receives the benefits, resources and support they deserve. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country – we can and will be the state where veterans and service members continue to lead and make all our freedom and success possible.”
“Massachusetts has a long history of prioritizing the needs of our veterans and service members and I am thrilled that the [bill] is on its way to the governor’s desk to continue this tradition,” said Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield), Senate chair of the Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. “Less than one half of one percent of our nation bravely raise their right hand and pledge to defend our nation no matter the costs. We must always remember, recognize and honor these sacrifices however we can, and passage of this legislation is an important step toward fulfilling that mission.”
“The [measure] enhances the quality of life for veterans in the commonwealth by making critical investments in benefits programs, expanding access to services and creating policies to ensure our veterans and their families are well-informed about the benefits and services available to them,” said Rep. Gerry Cassidy (D-Brockton), House chair of the Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs.