State Sens. Joe Cryan and Vin Gopal have been named 2022 New Jersey Lawmakers of the Year by the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce.
Veterans Chamber founder and CEO Jeff Cantor said Cryan (D-Union) and Gopal (D-Ocean Twp.) have supported multiple bills intended to improve conditions for the state’s veteran community since both were elected in November 2017.
Of note, Cryan sponsored, and Gopal supported, Bill S3113, which will aid disabled veterans with transportation services for destinations such as hospitals, shopping centers and veterans resource centers.
Importantly for the NJSVCC, both senators also have been very supportive of S1866, which proposes a 10% price preference for bids submitted by service-disabled veteran-owned businesses for state contracts. This means that, if a SDVOB bid for a state contract is within 10% of the lowest bidder, then the SDVOB would be awarded the contract. If passed, this bill would provide a tremendous boost to the state’s disabled veteran business owners.
Cryan said he was grateful for the honor.
“I am incredibly honored to be recognized as Legislator of the Year by the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce,” he said. “The chamber has helped countless veterans assist their peers with the challenging transition from service member to civilian.
“The chamber strives to ensure that veterans have access to jobs outside the military and that veteran-owned businesses receive fair contracting opportunities.”
The Veterans Chamber
If you would like more information about how to show support for veterans or the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce, click here or email Jeff Cantor here.
Cryan said he was even more grateful for the opportunity to help and honor those who served.
“Some of my proudest moments in the Legislature come when I get to advocate for New Jersey’s veteran families as the chair of the Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, advancing policies that recognize the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform,” he said. “The chamber is a true champion for New Jersey’s veterans, and I am proud to call them friends, allies and partners.”
Other bills supported by Cryan and Gopal include extending the $250 veteran property tax deduction for veterans and their surviving spouses to cover residential units in continuing care communities. Under current law, the $250 deduction is applicable only to privately owned residential homes. Cryan also lent his support to bill S3789, which proposes expanded veteran access to vocational education.
