Veterans have sacrificed greatly for our freedoms and safety.

I want to take this time to thank all the men and women who have served, making the United States a safe nation in which all can live.

My office is always open to assist veterans with any state-related help they may need.

Several years back I authored a law that was designed to waive state business startup fees for armed service members who transition to the civilian workforce from the United States Armed Forces, including reserve units, and the National Guard.

The program, known as Startups for Soldiers, eliminates the filing fees to register a new business when the registration documents are signed by a veteran or reservist and submitted with proof of the veteran’s or reservist’s status.

In the year 2020 Startups for Soldiers helped 3,111 soldiers and saved them $350,395 in business and professional licensing fees.

To further assist veterans and their families, I am hosting veterans assistance appointments.

Veterans or their dependents can schedule an in-person meeting with a service officer from the American Legion to discuss issues and have questions answered about benefits and services.

Veteran assistance appointments are in my district office located at the Lower Macungie Township Administration Building, 3402 Brookside Road, Macungie.

Services available to veterans and their dependents include assistance with compensation, pension, death benefits, education, and health care.

Veterans do not need to be a member of the American Legion to receive these services.

Anyone interested in scheduling a veterans assistance appointment or needs state-related assistance, should call my office at 610-965-9933.

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Editor’s note: State Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, a Republican, represents the 134th Legislative District, which includes Alburtis, Lower Macungie Township, Macungie, Salisbury Township (Wards 4 and 5) and South Whitehall (District 3 and 4) in Lehigh County; and Hereford, Longswamp, Richmond and Rockland townships, and Topton Borough in Berks County.