New Yorkers serving in the military would receive enhanced benefits under provisions of a bill that passed both houses of the State Legislature and is expected to be signed into law by Gov. George Pataki, said Assemblyman Thomas F. Barraga (R,C,I,WF-West Islip).

Barraga said the measure, known as Patriot Plan III, offers New York’s citizen soldiers and their families the most comprehensive benefits package of any state. It follows previously approved Patriot Plans I and II that recognize the dangers faced by New Yorkers called to active military duty, especially to fight the war on terrorism in the Middle East.

Included in the plan are provisions to:

•Pay for life insurance policies of up to $250,000 for members of the New York State organized militia during periods of active service;

• Provide families of eligible public employees who are killed while on active duty with the same health care and death benefits they would receive had their loved ones died as a result of an accident while working as public employees; and

• Create a new "War on Terror" license plate to be issued, on request, to veterans of the Persian Gulf or Afghanistan conflict.

"Considering the great sacrifices made by New York’s citizen soldiers, enactment of Patriot Plan III is a fitting tribute to their courage and strength," said Assemblyman Barraga.