Springfield Delegation Voices Support for HERO Act Local Option
While celebrating Veterans Day today, State Senator Adam Gomez joined members of the Springfield delegation in voicing support for the proposed adoption of the HERO Act local option, which would double tax exemptions for Springfield veterans. The expanded tax exemption became available with the state legislature’s passage of the HERO Act (An Act Honoring, Empowering, and Recognizing our Servicemembers and Veterans) this year, and if approved by the City Council would double property tax exemptions for eligible veterans. The HERO Act also provides for motor vehicle excise exemptions for eligible veterans.
Gomez had this to say on the proposal, “We took a great step this summer in passing the HERO Act here in Massachusetts, reflecting our commitment to respect, empower, and support those who have sacrificed for our nation and returned back. This proposal puts that work to use in our community and signifies this city’s dedication to those individuals and our desire to make sure this is still the place they call home. I was proud to support this measure in the legislature and look forward to seeing its impact on the lives of our service members and their families.”
"Massachusetts has a proud tradition of honoring our veterans, and the HERO Act represents a significant step forward in supporting their contributions and sacrifices," said Senator Jake Oliveira. "This new local option to double tax exemptions in Springfield demonstrates our community's commitment to standing by those who have stood up for us. By providing increased financial relief, we are giving veterans more peace of mind and helping build a community where they can thrive."
"I am very pleased that the Legislature, once again, took the lead in continuing to enhance Veterans benefits with the Hero Act. I am proud to have supported the Hero Act, and to do all that I can to continue to assist our Veterans and Service Members in the Commonwealth. Furthermore, I am pleased that the City of Springfield has taken steps to implement the local option portion of the bill - this would not be possible without our legislation." Stated State Representative Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr.
“As State Representative, I’m proud to have joined my colleagues in state legislature in making this historic piece of legislation a priority during this session in order to help address the many challenges facing veterans in the Commonwealth,” said Representative Orlando Ramos. “This local option is one of the many ways we are able to help the men and women who serve our country. I fully endorse and encourage city officials to approve the local option.”
Signed by Governor Maura Healey into law earlier this year, the HERO Act would increase benefits for disabled veterans, bolster support for businesses that hire veterans, update the definition of a veteran, expand the scope of the Veterans Equality Review Board, and codify medical and dental benefits.
This measure has the support of Mayor Sarno, Veteran’s Services Director Joe Decaro and other prominent city leaders.