Dear Editor:
Since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, New Jersey has had repeated activations of National Guard personnel. Out of the 9,000 Army and Air National Guard members, 1,500 are currently serving active federal or state duty. Some of these men and women have been serving for extended periods of time, placing a financial strain on themselves and their families.
Now more than ever, New Jerseyans understand and appreciate the sacrifices that military servicemen and servicewomen and veterans have made in the cause of protecting our freedoms. In so many ways, the quality of life we enjoy today is attributable to our active military and veterans wh have protected the values and principles that make America unique among other nations. Seeking to honor and recognize the thousands of New Jersey men and women who have served our country and states in times of conflict and peace, I recently took part in passing a comprehensive Assembly Democratic Majority initiative called “Saluting Our Military and Veterans.”
Assemblyman Joseph Doria and I co-sponsored the 20-bill package that included measures to enhance benefits and privileges for veterans, National Guard members and their families. The initiative was highlighted by a bill that would extend state veterans benefits, such as the annual veterans’ property tax deduction, to the men and women who served in the Iraqi conflict and the war on terrorism.
Another measure would make up for lost pay when state, county, municipal, or board of education employees who are military reservists or National Guard members are called to active duty for lengthy periods of time.
The Assembly also passed a bill that would direct the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs to develop a plan to provide home-based and outpatient health care to New Jersey veterans as alternatives to nursing home care.
Sincerely,
Elba Perez-Cinciarelli
Assemblywoman, 81st District
Jersey City