Bills Honor NYS Citizen-Soldiers’ Service Passed Both Houses

Eliminates one-time fee for issuing distinctive plates, waives court fees associated with active duty court action

Syracuse – New York State Assemblyman William B. Magnarelli (D-120th) announced passage of crucial legislation that protects New York State citizen-soldiers. The first bill passed both houses and waives court fees associated with court action necessitated by being called to active duty for citizen soldiers (A4323A). The second bill passed both the Assembly and Senate eliminating the service charge for issuing distinctive vehicle license plates for members of the New York State militia (A6479A). “Both bills are designed to honor the service of our New York State citizen-soldiers,” Magnarelli said. “These brave men and women, in organized militias or reserve armed forces, protect the rights and freedoms of New Yorkers by aiding the existing military efforts. They honor New York State with their service and we should honor them for their bravery by waiving these fees.” A.4323A
The second bill waives filing fees if these citizen-soldiers initiate a civil court action as a direct result of their call to active duty in the militia or reserves. Citizen-soldiers may file a civil action in conjunction with their call to active duty in order to protect their rights under state and federal law.
A.6479A
Members of the Army National Guard, Air National Guard, State Guard or Naval Militia, Army Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Navy Reserve or Coast Guard in New York State provide significant service in times of emergency. These citizen-soldiers are eligible to obtain vehicle license plates that identify their membership in the militia.
“Militia members provide an invaluable service and often volunteer their time to protect New York State,” Magnarelli said. “This bill not only identifies these members in times of emergency, but also by waiving the small fee, we are thanking these brave men and women for their service.” The service fee for these license plates is $10.