Veterans will be getting more access to discount programs and courtesies extended to military personnel. The bill sponsored by Senator Jim Whelan permits county clerks to create an identification card for veterans who live within the county and do not already hold a veteran ID card issued by the federal government is now law. The cards will not serve as sufficient proof of service for official government business or to secure veterans’ benefits – such as the state-administered veteran property tax deduction, or GI Bill education benefits.