In a significant stride toward enhancing veterans' welfare, Governor Maura Healey signed the HERO Act into law, marking a historic overhaul for veterans in Massachusetts. According to a statement from the state's official website, the HERO Act encapsulates over 30 provisions designed to benefit veterans, including nearly 30,000 women and an inclusive nod to the thousands of LGBTQ+ veterans.

Standing as the cornerstone of veteran legislation for the last two decades, the HERO Act aims to increase benefits, modernize services, and champion inclusivity. Notably, the Act boosts annual benefits for disabled veterans and overhauls access to behavioral health treatment, fulfilling part of Massachusetts' commitment to its nearly 30,000 women veterans. These provisions also extend support to businesses hiring veterans, especially those facing chronic unemployment or grappling with service-related disabilities, as stated in the official release.

During the ceremonial signing, Governor Healey heralded the HERO Act as the fruit of collective efforts to prioritize the state's veterans. "This is our most comprehensive veterans’ legislation in over 20 years, and it’s the result of Massachusetts coming together to make veterans our priority," Governor Healey told Mass.gov.

The law doesn't merely offer increased financial perks; it also modernizes definitions and expands protections across the spectrum of veteran services. With its commitment to inclusivity, the HERO Act revises language for gender neutrality and broadens the scope of definition for both veterans and their dependents, aligning with federal standards and pushing beyond. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, a military family member, praised Massachusetts for its steadfast leadership in veteran services, as mentioned in the press release.

Inputs from over a hundred municipal veteran service officers and collaborations with more than 30 nonprofit partners helped pinpoint the needful legislative adjustments and programs. The act also propels study groups to research alternative therapies for mental health issues pertinent to veterans, signifying a shift towards holistic and progressive treatment options. Revealed last Veterans Day, the HERO Act's provisions exceed mere lip service; they represent a joining of hands between various state departments, non-profit partners, and the legislature to provide service members with deserved respect and support, as quoted from statements of lawmakers like House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka in the official announcement.