Bill Summary: J 19 — Commending Technician Fourth Grade Joseph S. Cesternino posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal
Overview
J 19 is a resolution introduced on January 9, 2025, sponsored by primary sponsor Michelle Hinchey. The bill, which has been adopted, serves as a ceremonial commemoration recognizing Technician Fourth Grade Joseph S. Cesternino posthumously for being designated as a Liberty Medal recipient. The Liberty Medal is described (in the bill’s title) as the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the awarding organization.
Purpose and intent
- To publicly honor and memorialize the late Technician Fourth Grade Joseph S. Cesternino for his service and sacrifice.
- To acknowledge his designation as a Liberty Medal recipient and to highlight the significance of this national or organizational honor.
- To express gratitude to his family and to recognize the impact of his service on veterans, service members, and the community.
Key provisions
- Commendation: The resolution formally commends Joseph S. Cesternino posthumously.
- Recognition of award: States his designation as a Liberty Medal recipient.
- Public acknowledgement: Creates an official record of the tribute within the legislative journal.
- Transmission: Directs appropriate copies of the resolution to relevant parties (e.g., family, veterans organizations, and the Liberty Medal awarding body).
- Nature of action: This is a ceremonial, non-binding resolution that recognizes and honors achievement and service; it does not create or modify law or authorize spending.
Who is affected
- The immediate beneficiary is the family of Joseph S. Cesternino.
- Veterans and military communities may view the resolution as a formal acknowledgment of service and sacrifice.
- The organization awarding the Liberty Medal is referenced in the recognition.
- The bill affects the state’s official legislative records and may be cited in public ceremonies or memoranda.
Procedural timeline and status
- Introduced: January 9, 2025.
- Referred to Finance: January 9, 2025 (as per legislative actions).
- Referred to calendar for consideration: January 14, 2025 (noted twice in actions).
- Adopted: January 14, 2025 (noted twice in actions), resulting in final passage of the resolution.
Notes
- No fiscal impact is anticipated from a ceremonial resolution.
- The bill functions as a formal, public gesture of recognition rather than a substantive change in law or policy.