Sen. Bartolotta bill promoting veteran-owned businesses passes Senate

A bill sponsored by Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46) supporting veteran-owned businesses passed unanimously in the Pennsylvania Senate Wednesday, Bartolotta’s office said.

The bill, Senate Bill 438, would authorize the creation of a special logo promoting the state’s veteran-owned businesses. To be eligible to display the logo, the business will have to register with the Pennsylvania Department of State and be majority-owned (at least 51 percent) by a veteran, reservist or member of the National Guard, the Senator’s office said. Registration would not have any fees associated with the logo so the promotional efforts will come at no cost to veterans.

“I am so pleased that I was able to modify my original bill to eliminate the fees that veterans would have had to pay to use the logo. Now, it will offer them the support they deserve as they take the monumental step of running their own business as they transition from serving our country to reintegrating into civilian life,” Bartolotta said.

Bartolotta’s office said the in addition to championing veterans, the program will also spur new job creation and foster more business opportunities.

Additionally, the bill will also implement criminal penalties against an individual who falsely claims to be a veteran for the purpose of using the logo to promote their business.

Bartolotta’s office said the bill will move to the House for consideration.