Sunset Park

Gonzalez’s bill eases restrictions on veterans getting city licenses

March 25, 2013 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle
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City Councilwoman Sara Gonzalez, whose father and husband are both veterans, said a bill she sponsored to help veterans obtain city licenses easier is receiving strong support from her colleagues. 

The bill sailed through the council by a vote of 48-0 that was taken on March 20. Gonzalez (D-Sunset Park-Red Hook) noted that the vote took place during the week the nation marked the 10th anniversary of the start of the Iraq War. “I am mindful that this week we mark the passing of 10 years since the beginning of the Iraq War,” she said.

Under the bill, a veteran who applies for a city license, such as a street vendor permit from the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs, and then has to leave the city to serve a tour of duty, would not have to worry that his or her application process would be canceled as a result of the absence. Following the tour of duty, the veteran could pick up where he or she left off and complete the application process as if it had never been interrupted, Gonzalez said.

“My bill was one of a package of bills designed to provide a better quality of life for men and women who put themselves in harm’s way for our country. I was pleased to see it voted through the Veteran’s Committee yesterday,” said Gonzalez, who noted that the bill was approved by that committee a day earlier.

“This legislation touches the lives of young men and women returning home from brave service. Our veterans are struggling to support themselves and their families, particularly in this economy. I was honored to shepherd this bill through the process as a meaningful tribute to our veterans. We need to do much more for them,” Gonzalez said.

 

 

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