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Governor Corbett: Benefits Bills Recognize Pa. Veterans' Service To Country

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - Governor Corbett went to Fort Indiantown Gap Monday for the ceremonial signing of several bills to benefit Pennsylvania's veterans.

The seven bills were officially signed several weeks ago, and yesterday's event was only ceremonial, but dozens of veterans gathered to celebrate the new laws, one of which – sponsored by Bucks County Republican Senator Tommy Tomlinson – sets a 3 percent participation goal for veteran-owned businesses in small business contracts awarded by the state.

"It recognizes their commitment that they gave to our country and our state and the time that they missed from their businesses by giving them a preference."

Other bills in the package that are now law include measures creating a Veterans Trust Fund to provide for veterans programs, streamlining voting for service personnel, overhauling the state code of military justice, and creating a special "V" designation on drivers licenses that will help veterans qualify for discounts and other benefits.

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