Albany, NY – Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-119) is proud to announce that legislation she co-sponsored, A7173/S7544, officially takes effect today, delivering a powerful new support system for veterans across the state. The law mandates that every state agency appoint a dedicated veterans' liaison, an initiative designed to ensure that no veteran is left navigating government services alone.

For many veterans returning to civilian life, the journey to secure the benefits they have earned, whether healthcare, employment, or educational opportunities, can be overwhelming. Too often, veterans face bureaucratic obstacles, leaving them unsure of where to turn. This new law aims to change that by giving veterans direct access to knowledgeable advocates within every state agency.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon shared her reflections on the significance of the new law: "We owe a profound debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served our nation. Yet too often, our veterans face unnecessary hurdles when seeking services that should be readily accessible. By establishing veterans' liaisons across state agencies, we are ensuring that our veterans have dedicated, compassionate allies who will walk alongside them, guiding them to the resources they need and deserve. This is more than legislation; it is a promise to our heroes that they will not be forgotten."

Under the law:

• Every state agency will designate a veterans' liaison within 90 days.
• These liaisons will assist veterans with navigating agency services, benefits, and employment opportunities tailored to their needs.
• Liaisons will receive specialized training to help them identify and address the unique challenges veterans face.
• A comprehensive directory of liaisons will be maintained and updated by the Department of Veterans' Services, ensuring easy access for veterans and their families.

This initiative will provide a single point of contact within each agency, reducing confusion and frustration for veterans who might otherwise struggle to understand which services are available to them. It also fosters greater cooperation between agencies, strengthening communication and improving outreach efforts for veteran-related programs statewide.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon has long been a champion of veterans' causes, including advocating for expanded educational opportunities through the Veterans Tuition Awards Program (VTAP). She emphasized that this latest effort is part of her enduring commitment to ensuring veterans feel seen, valued, and supported.

"This law speaks to the heart of who we are as New Yorkers. We believe in service, in community, and in standing up for those who stood up for us. It is my hope that every veteran who seeks help through this program feels the respect and gratitude of an entire state," Buttenschon added.

Veterans and their families are encouraged to reach out to their local state agency or Assemblywoman Buttenschon's office for more information about the new program.