The Veterans’ Buy Back Bill, co-sponsored by Assemblyman Marc W. Butler, R,C-Newport, has passed both houses of the legislature and awaits action from the governor.

Butler’s district includes St. Lawrence County towns from Norfolk and Madrid south to Colton, Clifton and Fine.

The bill, A.8174, would allow honorably discharged veterans to purchase up to three years worth of military service credit to put toward their state retirement. The legislation requires appropriations from the state to eliminate any burden this program could create for local municipalities.

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our safety and the preservation of our freedom. Allowing them to purchase three years of military service to put toward their state retirement is just one of the many ways we can say thanks,” Butler said. “The Veterans’ Buy Back Bill will expand the existing program to include all honorably discharged veterans.”

The legislation passed both house of the Legislature with bi-partisan support, and now awaits the governor’s signature.