Assembly approves bill to expand fitness benefits for disabled veterans; Senate and governor approval needed

The New York State Assembly this week approved legislation by Assemblyman Tommy John Skeoni to make free or discounted fitness memberships available to disabled veterans at community-college gyms and swimming pools statewide, the program's supporters said.

East End News reported that the policy is already in place at Suffolk County Community College; the bill would extend similar access to the other 29 community colleges in the State if it clears the State Senate and is signed by Governor Kathy Hochul. In a statement quoted by the program, Assemblyman Skeoni called the legislation "a critical step forward to improve the quality of life for those who bravely served our nation."

The Assembly action does not make the change law; the measure must pass the Senate and be signed by the governor before it takes effect. The local report did not provide the bill number or details about program administration, eligibility verification or projected costs.