Relates to exempting disabled veterans from certain fees relating to physical modification of a residence to accommodate a disability
Impact
The legislation's primary impact is on the general municipal law, specifically by adding a new section that outlines fee exemptions for disabled veterans. By ensuring that veterans with disabilities do not have to pay for necessary home modifications, the bill supports a more inclusive environment, enabling them to comfortably live in their homes. Financial barriers can often deter veterans from making essential accommodations, thus the bill aims to facilitate their reintegration into civilian life without the added stress of additional costs.
Summary
Bill A10921, titled the "Disabled Veteran Home Modification Act", aims to exempt disabled veterans and their caregivers from various fees associated with modifications to their homes intended to accommodate disabilities. These fees include permit fees, plan review fees, inspection fees, and reinspection fees. The bill recognizes that disabled veterans encounter significant financial burdens when modifying their residences for accessibility and therefore seeks to mitigate these costs by providing financial relief through fee exemptions.
Contention
Discussion around Bill A10921 may include debates over budget implications for local governments, which could experience a reduction in revenue due to these fee exemptions. Critics might argue that while the intent is noble, the bill could create financial strains on municipal budgets, ultimately affecting public services. Supporters, however, emphasize the importance of supporting veterans and providing them with the necessary resources to ensure their independence and quality of life, dismissing concerns related to municipal revenue as secondary to the welfare of those who have served the country.
Relates to exempting disabled veterans from application fees relating to physical modification of a residence to accommodate a disability, including permit fees, plan review fees, inspection fees and reinspection fees.
Relates to employment of persons and veterans with disabilities by the state; provides up to five thousand positions may be filled by persons with a physical or mental disability and up to two thousand positions may be filled by disabled veterans and veterans with disabilities.
Prohibits the adjustment of maximum allowable rent where any modification, increase or improvement is made to accommodate the needs of a disabled tenant; defines disabled tenant.