NY A09443

Authorizes the Governor to present the "New York State Afghanistan War Commemorative Medal" to eligible individuals in the name of the state legislature.

Eligibility requires: current or former New York State residency, service in U.S. Armed Forces or organized militia on active duty in Afghanistan between October 7, 2001 and August 30, 2021, and honorable discharge or qualifying discharge status.

Includes provisions for LGBT veterans and individuals with qualifying conditions as defined in Executive Law Section 350, allowing non-dishonorable discharges for these groups.

Limits recipients to one medal each, and allows posthumous presentation to a designated representative if the eligible person dies before receiving the medal.

Takes effect 120 days after becoming law, with the Division of Military and Naval Affairs authorized to create implementing regulations.