By Hank Russell
A piece of legislation introduced by Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni (D-Sag Harbor) that would provide greater access to a healthier lifestyle for New York’s veterans was passed unanimously by the Assembly.
A.6001-A/S.7784-A would allow select SUNY, CUNY, and community college campuses across the State of New York that offer membership programs to provide disabled veterans with free or discounted memberships for the use of fitness and aquatic facilities. Local cosponsors include Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills), Judy Griffin (D-Rockville Centre), Rebecca Kassay (D-Port Jefferson), Jodi Giglio (R-Riverhead), Joe DeStefano (R-Medford) and Minority Leader Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square). The bill is currently awaiting a vote on the floor of the State Senate.
A Senate version has also been introduced by Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D-Brighton Beach). Local cosponsors include Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk), Monica Martinez (D-Brentwood), Mario Mattera (R-St. James) and Dean Murray (R-Medford).
The Suffolk County Community College system has already adopted this policy at all applicable campuses. Last year, state and county leaders stood together in support of this legislation at a press conference hosted at the Southampton Community College Eastern Campus. There, leaders emphasized the importance of statewide implementation to better support New York’s veteran population, and this is a critical step forward to improve the quality of life for those who bravely served our nation.
“Thanks to advocacy by local leaders, this legislation was passed unanimously,” Schiavoni said. “This state-wide initiative would alleviate a financial burden for New York’s Veterans, increasing access to a more fit, healthier lifestyle. I urge Governor [Kathy] Hochul to join me in supporting those who served our country with bravery and honor by signing this bill into law.”
Assemblyman Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills), who chairs the Assembly Veterans’ Affairs Committee, said this is “ important legislation that will enable our disabled veterans to utilize pools and fitness facilities at SUNY and CUNY campuses statewide at no cost to them.”
“Physical fitness is an important part of overall health and wellness, and this initiative will ensure that those who have sacrificed so much for our great nation have access to activities that help with rehabilitation, provide support and camaraderie, and show our veterans and their families that we always have their backs,” Stern added.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Suffolk County District Commander William M. Hughes, Jr. echoed Stern’s remarks. “Physical exercise probably does more to treat Post Traumatic Stress and those at risk of suicide than so many other programs,” he said. “Regular exercise creates higher self-esteem, lower depression and anxiety levels and reduces stress. [It also] combats the isolation and loneliness that are sometimes treated with drugs that may create more harm than good.”
Hughes emphasized this bill will not financially impact the taxpayers. “These facilities are already in existence and are well-equipped,” he said. “These campuses also provide a positive educational and social atmosphere.”