Issue Position: Connecting Seniors and Veterans to the Services They Need

Issue Position

* Improve access to quality health care and vital treatments for Western New York's seniors
* Expand critical support for veterans with PTSD and mental health issues, in additional to physical disabilities stemming from service
* Ensure veterans have jobs and educational opportunities waiting for them when they return from service

Throughout his career, Tim has been an outspoken advocate for Western New York seniors and those who have served our country. Tim fights every day to expand the services and resources available to seniors and veterans because he wants to give back to those who have sacrificed so much for our community.

One of the most pressing concerns that seniors face today is access to quality health care, treatments and prescription drugs. Tim has pushed for increased funding for the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program, which helps nearly 300,000 seniors save on their prescription drug costs each year. To help more seniors save money on their property taxes, Tim proposed expanding access to the School Tax Relief (STAR) Program for those over 65.

Tim is focused on initiatives that protect seniors from fraud and abuse. That is why he signed onto legislation to fight against exploitation of seniors by telemarketers and proposed several measures to strengthen the penalties for elder abuse. Taking a hands on approach, Tim sponsored events throughout the district to better inform seniors on common scams and deceptive schemes that target elderly victims.

Tim views protecting and supporting our veterans as one of his most important duties as a government official. It is critical to help veterans gain access to the support and resources they need and earned in service to our nation. Expanding critical support for veterans with PTSD and mental health issues, in addition to physical disabilities stemming from service, is amongst Tim's top priorities in Albany.

In addition to his work to increase supportive services, Tim believes it is essential that veterans have jobs and educational opportunities waiting for them when they return home. For that reason, Tim sponsored legislation to expand access to private and public sector jobs for veterans, tuition assistance and assistance for veterans who want to start their own business. He also spearheaded efforts to create and preserve the dignity of monuments that honor veterans and their sacrifice.

During his first two years in office, Tim has continuously demonstrated his commitment to providing critical support and resources to seniors and veterans. In the years to come, Tim will continue to improve the quality of life for those who have given their community and our nation so much.

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