Protecting Our Veterans – The HERO Act

As you know, honoring and protecting our veterans is another core mission of mine as a State Representative who is also a Gold Star Father. The men and women who serve our country in uniform are heroes, and we owe them not only a debt of sincere gratitude for their service but also our commitment to help support them once they transition back to civilian life here at home. I believe it’s important for us to promote home ownership and employment for our veterans, and to make sure they have the health care services they need, especially when it comes to mental health issues.

This year, I was honored to be appointed to serve on the conference committee that ultimately produced legislation to honor, empower, and recognize our service members and veterans (the “HERO Act”). Governor Healey signed this bill into law in August.

The HERO Act represents a monumental step forward for our veterans, with over 30 provisions aimed at expanding benefits, modernizing services, and ensuring that no veteran is left behind. From increasing behavioral health treatment access to providing greater tax credits for businesses hiring veterans, this Act is a testament to our commitment to those who have served. It’s the largest veterans benefits law in Massachusetts history.

I was honored to attend the signing ceremony for this bill in Lexington. The ceremony concluded when my amazing friend, fellow Cape Codder, and State House colleague Amanda Braga Tipton took the stage to share the heartbreaking story of losing her brother Joshua, a veteran, to suicide. Her courage and candor in speaking about this tragic loss moved everyone in attendance, and her words earned a standing ovation—a powerful reminder of why the HERO Act is so necessary.

As a member of the Veterans Services Committee and the HERO Act Conference Committee, I am deeply proud to have played a role in bringing this legislation to life. This Act will make a real difference in the lives of our veterans and their families, honoring their service and providing them with the support they so richly deserve.