NY S06159

Expands the definition of "veteran" to include service in the Army National Guard, Air National Guard, commissioned officers in the Public Health Service, NOAA, U.S. Armed Forces service academy cadets, and service under 38 U.S.C. § 106, with honorable discharge required.

Removes the previous requirement that military service occur "during a war in which the United States engaged" and replaces it with broader active duty service eligibility.

Creates new definitions for "combat veteran" (those with combat identification badge or medal during wartime periods, including Lebanon, Grenada, and Panama service) and "wartime era veteran" (active duty service during periods of war as defined by federal regulations).

Requires county and city veterans' service agency directors hired after the effective date to be accredited as Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representatives within one year of appointment.

Updates references to "veteran" definitions across multiple sections of Executive Law to align with the new, expanded definition.