A new state law is giving Connecticut's veterans some financial relief. Veterans in the state can now save money on everything from the dentist to the DMV, thanks to the change.
For those who served, the rising cost of living has been a growing burden. Joe Della Porta, who served his country in Vietnam, said that as he gets older things get more expensive, and that just like everything else, it goes up and never comes down.
The centerpiece of the law helps with a common out-of-pocket cost. Under the 2026 HEROES Act, veterans can get up to $3,000 for dental services.
The program has a defined reach and comes with conditions. There is enough money to cover at least 333 vets, but there are some restrictions.
Those restrictions are tied to income and existing coverage. To qualify, a veteran's household income must be less than $86,000 a year, and they cannot already get dental care from the Veterans Administration.
The savings do not stop at the dentist's office. Vets now have several new ways to save money, and at the DMV all driver's licenses will be free for veterans starting on October 1st.
For the veteran who pushed for the change, it is about more than the dollars. Joe Della Porta fought hard for the dental coverage, and he says many vets are too proud to ask for help, adding that he does not know if they are afraid or simply not willing to ask for assistance.