My name is Matt Vianna,  I have proudly served my country and, like many of my fellow veterans, I returned home with the hope of building a new life with access to the support and benefits I was promised. However, I have faced a constant struggle due to the lack of adequate benefits for veterans in our state. This issue is personal to me and countless others who have risked their lives for the freedom and safety of our nation.

Currently, Rhode Island lags behind other states in terms of veteran benefits, making it challenging for veterans to access health care, education, housing, and employment support. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Rhode Island has one of the lowest per capita veteran populations in the country, and this trend is sadly continuing as more veterans leave the state in search of better opportunities and support elsewhere. This is unjust for those who have sacrificed so much, and it reflects poorly on our state's commitment to honoring their service.

Improving veteran benefits in Rhode Island is not only a moral obligation but a practical necessity. We propose the following actionable step:

1. To pass this Bill that would eliminate Rhode Island State tax for all Veterans that hold an Honorable Discharge as well as a DD-214

By undertaking these action, we can create a more supportive environment for veterans in Rhode Island, encouraging them to stay and continue contributing to our community. This is a call to action for the Rhode Island General Assembly to recognize the urgent need to improve veterans' benefits and take meaningful steps to uplift those who have given us so much.

Please sign this petition to urge our legislators to prioritize and expand veteran benefits in Rhode Island. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our veterans and honor their service in the way they truly deserve.