Honorably discharged veterans would have more opportunities for internships under a measure that cleared the state Senate on Thursday. 

The bill, yet to pass in the state Assembly, would set aside 10% of the positions in the legislative internship program for the state Senate and Assembly for veterans. 

The internship program in the state Legislature typically runs through the legislative session, paying stipends for interns who work in either chamber of the Legislature. 

“Let’s not just talk the talk, let’s walk the walk and give back to our veterans and wounded warriors by truly thanking them for everything we hold dear as Americans and as New Yorkers by offering them a birds eye view of the government they sacrificed their blood, sweat and tears and in some cases, nearly their own lives to protect,” said Sen. Jim Tedisco. “As our veterans learn about state government, my colleagues and I and our college and graduate interns will learn from them about honor, duty, courage, and perseverance -- lessons that our leaders in state government probably need now, more than ever."

The internship programs would work with county-level veteran services agencies to find and recruit eligible candidates under the legislation. 

 “This initiative will give our unemployed and underemployed veterans significant experience to put on their resumes for future long-term employment," Tedisco said. "The Veterans Internship Program sends the message that our state and the New York State Legislature truly values the service of our veterans in deeds as well as words."