Governor Healey Signs HERO Act
Gov. Healy Signs HERO Act
Legislation focused on Benefit Expansion, Inclusivity, and Modernization of Veterans’ Services was signed into law by Gov. Maura Healey on August 8, 2024. The comprehensive act aims to improve the lives of Veterans and their support networks in Massachusetts. The significant efforts of out members to help pass this legislation ensures that every veteran receives the benefits, resources and support they deserve. More information and a detailed list of all the expanded benefits and services can be found by clicking here and reading on the State’s official website.
Some of the highlighs include:
- Updates definition of Veteran, including Guard eligibility for Soldier Homes. This aligns the state Chapter 115 program definition with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs definition.
- Extends the timeframe for veterans in public service to utilize the Active-Duty Service Buyback program from 180 days to ten years.
- Increases Vet-Hire Tax Credit to $2,500 for small businesses hiring chronically unemployed or low-income veterans. Eligible veterans include those receiving SNAP benefits, chronically unemployed veterans, and unemployed service-connected disabled veterans.
- Increases Disabled Vet and Gold Star Annuity to $2,500
- Waives additional fee for Veterans License Plates
Current Legislative Priorities
- National Guard State Tax Exemption
- Guard Enlistment Enhancement Program
- Permanent Location for the National Guard Museum in Salem
- Promoting National Guard to GOV Cabinet
- Headstones for Long-Serving or Perished Members of the Massachusetts National Guard
- State Military Construction Funding
Legislative Initiatives
The National Guard Association of Massachusetts (NGAMA) is the only organization solely dedicated to the more than 8,000 members of the Massachusetts Army and Air National Guard, as well as veterans of the Massachusetts National Guard and their families. NGAMA’s mission is to help ensure the Massachusetts National Guard is fully funded, staffed, equipped, and trained to perform its state and federal mission and that members and veterans receive the benefits they have earned.
Always ready to serve the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts National Guard must retain quality people, and replace those who have completed their commitments or retired. Accordingly, NGAMA’s legislative, budget and mission priorities reflect the critical need to attract, train and retain quality women and men in the Guard and recognize organizations and institutions that support the Massachusetts National Guard.
Write to Congress
Every year, NGAMA, together with NGAUS, develops priorities based on grass-roots input and expertise from our members: the Soldiers and Airmen of the Massachusetts National Guard. We advocate on Becon Hill and in Congress to ensure they have the capabilities, equipment, and benefits to successfully execute their Total Force mission.
Take action on issues important to your Soliders and Airmen by emailing your representatives. Use the link below to find your Massachusetts Legislators and write your respresentatives about issues and topics important to the National Guard community.
Find Your Legislator
Find your legislator with this helpful tool from the official MA Legislative website. Just enter your address and get contact links for your current MA State Representative, MA State Senator, US Representative and US Senators.