New YorkA 62642025-2026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Expands the definition of veteran to include members of the commissioned corps of the national oceanic and atmospheric administration and the commissioned corps of the public health service

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Public Health and NOAA officers count as veterans

The law counts commissioned officers of NOAA and the U.S. Public Health Service as veterans. You qualify if you have an honorable or general discharge. You also qualify with a qualifying condition or as an LGBT veteran, if your discharge was not bad conduct or dishonorable. This status lets you access state veterans’ programs that require veteran status.

Job protections for NOAA and Public Health officers

Service as a commissioned officer in NOAA or the U.S. Public Health Service now counts as military duty. You get state job protections for leaving and returning to work after that service. Existing time limits and other listed exclusions in the law still apply.

Paid Memorial and Veterans Day leave for public employees

State and local public employees who served on active duty in NOAA or the U.S. Public Health Service get paid leave. You get up to 24 hours on Memorial Day and 24 hours on Veterans Day. You must have an honorable or general discharge, or meet the qualifying-condition or LGBT veteran rules with no bad conduct or dishonorable discharge. Agencies can deny or reschedule leave if giving it would endanger public or patient safety.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Steve Stern
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Judy Griffin
Democratic • House
Rebecca Seawright
Democratic • House
Sam Berger
Democratic • House
Tommy Schiavoni
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 59 • No: 0

House vote • 6/11/2025

FLOOR Vote