March 25, 2014

Veterans' Discount Passes Legislature

(MINEOLA, NY) – A new law allowing veterans to purchase a Nassau County Leisure Passport (“Pass”) at a one-time rate, as opposed to paying a fee every three years, was unanimously passed on Monday, March 24, 2014 during a full meeting of the Legislature in Mineola. The bill was initially proposed in February by Legislator Ellen W. Birnbaum (D-Great Neck), with the support of her fellow Democratic colleagues.

The law, which clarifies an ordinance already in place, enables veterans to pay only a one-time rate of $25 for the Leisure Pass and show proof of residency every three years.

The Leisure Pass provides residents discounted access to Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums facilities and will remain valid as long as the veteran continues to reside in Nassau County.

Earlier this year, a constituent complaint regarding the rates veterans pay for a Leisure Pass was brought to the attention of Legislator Birnbaum, who serves as a member of the Veterans & Senior Affairs Committee.

“It came to my attention from a local veteran that there were price inequities for leisure passes in Nassau County,” said Legislator Birnbaum. “I immediately looked into the situation and discovered that there was, indeed, a disparity in rates being charged for Veterans.”

The legislation also states that the senior citizens discounted rate already in place will not change.

“I believe the passage of this legislation has remedied the situation, allowing us to share a small token of appreciation to with our veterans, acknowledging their courageous service to our country.”

PHOTO CAPTION (from L-R): Legislator Dave Denenberg, Pat Yngstrom, former president of the Nassau County United Veterans Organization, and Legislator Ellen W. Birnbaum.