Rep. Miller's bipartisan bill to extend benefits to those fighting COVID-19 pandemic, other public safety efforts passes House

COLUMBUS— State Rep. Adam C. Miller (D-Columbus) today hailed House passage of HB 428, his bipartisan bill that would authorize county recorders to establish a veterans' identification card program to individuals who have served with the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  USPHS and NOAA are two of the eight uniformed services of the United States.

“Our Public Health Service is on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, risking their lives to serve our country in unprecedented times.” said Rep. Miller. “Those who have served our nation in the Public Health Service and NOAA – as US recognized uniformed services – whether alongside our military overseas, in Ohi0, or in the eye of a hurricane, deserve the benefits and honors of their service.”

Ohio Veterans ID card provides a state identification, designation as a member/former member of the uniformed services, and other benefits including discounts and other perks provided by the government and private sector.

The mission of the USPHS is to protect, promote, and advance the health and safety of the United States. officers respond to national crises like hurricanes, biological attacks, floods, acts of terrorism and other national crises. They have served alongside Armed Services in Iraq, Afghanistan and have led the way domestically in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic.

NOAA provides weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring to services that support the US economy and affect more than one-third of America’s GNP.  NOAAA officers are frequently transferred, serve extended periods at sea under hazardous conditions and operate a number of research aircraft that penetrate and monitor hurricanes at low levels to provide critical data for hurricane warnings.