Huntington, NY – New York State Assemblyman Steve Stern, in his role as Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, is proud to deliver $200,000 in the 2026-27 State Budget to the American Legion Department of New York, restoring funding for the Boys and Girls State Programs. He has also moved the funding under the Veterans’ Affairs Committee’s jurisdiction, making sure that our veterans service organizations are included in the budget process.

Each year, American Legion posts across New York State send some of our most engaged and bright students to SUNY Brockport and SUNY Morrisville for a week of education and friendly competition. Split into the Federalist and Nationalist parties, students learn about service in the armed forces, run for elected office, and build their civic knowledge.

“I am proud to restore funding to Girls State and Boys State, ensuring that students from across New York have the opportunity to participate in these historic programs,” said Assemblyman Stern. “Engaging students in our civic processes is fundamental to preserving and protecting our American democracy. Each summer, the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary instill in our young people the value of service to our community, state, and entire nation.”

Moving the funding for Girls and Boys State to the Veterans’ Affairs Committee highlights the programs’ values of patriotism, civics, and honoring our local heroes. A selective program bringing together some of our best and brightest from across New York State, students gain real-world experiences hearing from dedicated servicemembers, engaging in debate and mock caucuses, and working together to pass legislative agendas. Our veteran service organizations must have an active role in the budget process, preserving the value and purpose of Girls and Boys State to empower and uplift the next generation of leaders.