READER’S VIEW: No more empty promises, veterans’ funds must be distributed now

“We don’t know them all, but we owe them all.”

This quote — attributed to various sources, including anonymous authors, military personnel and supporters of veterans — captures the sentiment of gratitude and indebtedness towards all those who have served in the military.

Yet, the U.S. has a shameful track record in its treatment of veterans.

It’s a tragic irony that a nation quick to extol veterans’ bravery often fails to provide the support and care they need and deserve. Despite the grandeur of parades and the solemnity of ceremonies, the true measure of a nation’s commitment to its veterans lies not in words of praise, but in tangible actions of support and assistance.

Recently, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli released a report disclosing that millions of dollars in taxpayer-donated funds meant for veterans are being held back. This money, generously contributed by taxpayers who have already fulfilled their state tax obligations, has languished unused for years — an unacceptable oversight that deprives veterans of critical assistance.

Every year, New Yorkers encounter check-off boxes on their state income tax forms, offering the opportunity to donate a portion of their refund to charitable causes. However, these donations, particularly those intended for veterans’ assistance, often remain untouched by state government.

Despite significant amounts collected, such as $951,501 for the Veterans Remembrance and Cemetery Maintenance and Operation Fund and $154,649 for the New York State’s Veterans Emergency Housing Assistance Fund, not a single penny was disbursed last year. Following the comptroller audit and an investigation from CBS 6, the state has yet to detail a plan to release the funds or an acceptable rationale for continuing to withhold them.

Earlier this month, I spoke alongside my colleagues Sen. Jake Ashby, Sen. Jim Tedisco and many veterans at the American Legion Post #1520 to push for the passage of our bill A.09900/S.08999.

This bill would streamline the process of getting funds out, promote transparency and create accountability by making sure all veteran-related tax check-off programs are administered by the Division of Veteran Services (DVS) instead of a multitude of agencies, eliminating miles of bureaucratic red tape to ensure veterans get what they deserve.

Taxpayers also deserve to know their charitable donations are being properly spent.

The press conference this month was the first step to bring attention to the issue, but the work doesn’t end there. To ensure this bill won’t get stuck in committee like so many others, the next crucial step is to advance it to the floors of both the Senate and Assembly for a vote.

I have already circulated this bill among my Assembly colleagues to ask them to sign on as co-sponsors. Now, I’ll work to get the bill through committee and to the floor so it can get on the governor’s desk. The process of getting a bill passed can be lengthy, but in the case of this piece of legislation, it’s well worth the work and effort.

If you would like to support me in this effort, you can write to your representatives and ask them to sign onto and endorse the bill!

In light of Memorial Day, dedicated to honoring and remembering those who have given their lives in military service, it’s especially poignant to reflect on the promises we make to our veterans and the imperative to fulfill them. New York must improve its treatment of our veterans, a responsibility I take seriously.

I appreciate the sacrifice of all the men and women who have served or are currently serving our nation and will not stop advocating for their needs on a state level.

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh represents the 112th Assembly District, which consists of parts of Saratoga, Schenectady and Fulton counties.