Ortt seeks additional credit for National Guard who served in prisons, subways

Press Release, State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt

AMHERST – New York State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, along with Amherst Town Supervisor-Elect discussed the importance of legislation that would support the New York National Guard and New York Air National Guard today.

The Guard has been called on to deal with issues and conflicts here in the U.S. and across the globe. In New York State, our guard members have been deployed throughout New York State prisons in the wake of massive strikes and prison guards being terminated from their positions. Guard members have also been called on to keep the subway system in New York City safe from increasing crime rates.

These National Guard members should be recognized for their service and should receive additional credit for the competitive examination for original appointment or a promotion. Senate Bill S.8365, would amend civil service law and provide a preference for activated members of the New York Army National Guard or the New York Air National Guard for competitive examinations.

“The duties carried out by our service members have earned them more than our sincere thanks, and with this legislation, we can help our national guard members achieve career growth and advancement in the public employment sector, which is always in need of qualified candidates,” said Republican Leader Rob Ortt. “While some of my colleagues are more concerned with blocking President Trump’s ability to deploy National Guard troops in New York, I am worried about the health and wellbeing, and careers of our troops and their families, currently deployed on some missions they were never intended to carry out. We must support our National Guard and their families, and this legislation is one of many great ways to do so.”

A member of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard who has been active pursuant to a state disaster emergency declaration for 60 days or more would receive 2 ½ points additional credit in a competitive examination for original appointment or promotion. The bill remains in the rules committee.

“The unwavering dedication of the New York Army and Air National Guard, who have served during state-declared disasters, deserves recognition and support,” said Town of Amherst Supervisor-Elect Shawn Lavin. “Granting these men and women additional credit on their civil service examinations is a small but meaningful way to express our gratitude while also giving active guard members a well-earned competitive edge in appointments and promotions.”