Chairman Ryan, Legislators Pinto and Maisano Push for Tax Breaks for Cold War Veteran
“Tax Exemptions Long Overdue For Cold War Vets”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 9, 2007

Cold War veterans in Westchester may soon get a break on their county property taxes if County Board Chair Bill Ryan (D-IN-WF, White Plains) has his way. Ryan and fellow Legislators Vito Pinto (D, Tuckahoe) and Jim Maisano (R-C, New Rochelle) want the Board to consider enacting a local law extending a property tax break to these veterans.

“If enacted, the tax exemption -- of up to 15% of the assessed value of residential property-- that is currently available to other veterans, Gold Star Mothers and senior citizens, would be extended to include Cold War veterans, " said Ryan."The men and women who sacrificed so much for our country and who were prepared to give their lives for freedom have certainly earned this benefit.”

In July, New York Governor Eliot Spitzer signed legislation that provides eligible Cold War veterans, individuals who served in the United States Armed Forces during the time period from September 2, 1945 to December 26, 1991, with a real property tax exemption. A spouse may also be eligible to file for benefits based on a husband or wife’s service. 

Pinto, the Board’s Veterans Liaison, said, “As a Vietnam veteran myself, I am honored to co-sponsor this legislation. Once it's before them, I will urge my colleagues to move as quickly as possible on this legislation to assist those who fought to protect the freedoms that we all enjoy.”

Maisano called the tax exemption 'long overdue'. “The previous state law extended benefits to some Cold War veterans, but not to others," said Maisano. "When I raised the issue with our state delegation, they were very receptive and worked very hard correct this inequity, ultimately passing the bill by an overwhelming majority.”

The county legislation would allow local municipalities the option of providing their own property tax exemption to Cold War veterans. The exemption would last for 10 years.