Heading into Veterans Day, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has vetoed legislation that would have authorized state pension credits for peacetime military service.
The legislation authored by Hudson Valley Republican and World War II comabt vet Sen. William Larkin, would amend current law that provides up to three years credit toward state pensions for military service during hostilities.
They would have to pay 3 percent of their compensation during those military years to the retirement system.
Assembly sponsors say the U.S. now depends on a volunteer military, and to encourage citizens to join, the state needs to recognize all veterans by giving them pension access.
In his veto message, Cuomo says it's an unfunded mandate on local governments that would incur $57 million in near term obligations.
(C) 2014 AP
Cuomo Vetoes Bill For Veterans' Pension Credits
WAMC image by Dave Lucas
