Assemblymember Pamela J. Hunter (D-Syracuse) announced she has been appointed as chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Women Veterans. Currently, Hunter is the only female veteran in the New York State Legislature and previously served in the U.S. Army, receiving a commendation and two achievement medals during her time in the armed services.

“Every day, our brave men and women in uniform risk their lives protecting this country,” said Hunter. “As a veteran myself, I know that female veterans have specific obstacles to overcome when they return to civilian life.”

As chair, Hunter hopes to expand access to state resources, establish health coverage and create viable job opportunities for women who have served our nation. She hopes to work with state and federal agencies to promote minority- and women-owned business (MWBE) development that can ensure female veterans can start their own businesses. Additionally, Hunter would like to expand access to mental health programs, transitional housing and other resources that are currently available by the state.

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for us, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive exceptional services and support when they return home,” said Hunter. “I’ll continue advocating so that our honorable community members have access to good jobs, a bed to sleep in and other vital resources that they desperately need.”

Hunter has held an active role in bolstering the opportunities and paths to success open to veterans across the state. She authored legislation requiring SUNY and CUNY to examine the availability of campus services, programs and resources for veterans and provide recommendations on improving those opportunities (A.1080). Further, she has penned bills that would waive the state application fee for civil service exams taken by honorably discharged veterans and exempt veterans from paying certain filing fees relating to the incorporation of a business (A.1105/A.6835).