Veterans’ Rights
For those who serve our nation in uniform, returning to civilian life can be a difficult process. Having heard stories of the sacrifices and hardships endured by servicemen and women—including that of his cousin, a teenager killed in action during World War II—Chuck Lavine recognizes the challenges faced by veterans and their families following service, such as finding employment, pursuing continued or higher education, and addressing physical or emotional scars obtained over the course of their service. Chuck believes that supporting our veterans and their families must be a policy priority in Albany, and has built a strong legislative record as an advocate for veterans’ rights.
As a relative newcomer in the State Assembly in 2006, Chuck authored a piece of legislation aimed at significantly expanding state services to veterans, including educational incentives and financing for physical and emotional therapy. While his efforts were hindered, the following year’s budget included Chuck’s proposal that veterans pursuing higher education be entitled to receive a state-funded grant equal to full tuition at any SUNY or CUNY school. Since, Chuck has authored and secured passage of a law providing veterans residing in Nassau County a partial exemption on their property taxes in recognition of their service.
Chuck remains a fierce defender of the rights of our servicemen and women, as well as those of their courageous families. He will continue to fight for those who fought for us.