Legislation gives vets more opportunities
Posted on Saturday, August 2, 2008
BENTON COUNTY - Legislation aimed at giving military veterans skills they need in civilian life passed the House, U. S. Rep. John Boozman, RArk., says.
The law, aimed at improving opportunities for disabled veteran-owned small businesses, passed the House of Representatives by voice vote Thursday night, July 31.
"This legislation will make veterans more competitive in the job market. Our veterans deserve every opportunity to further their careers... "Boozman says in a press release.
It will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include in each contract the secretary enters for the acquisition of goods and services a provision that requires the business to comply with the contracting goals and preferences for small business concerns owned or controlled by veterans.
The bill would require the Veterans Affairs Department to require companies contracted to provide the department with goods and services to set aside at least 3 percent of their contracting funds to buy goods and services from service disabled veteranowned small business.
It would also authorize $ 10 million for the VA to conduct a five-year pilot program to expand the veterans' campus work study program It would also create the Military Occupational Specialty Transition to train unemployed veterans who do not have education or training benefits for up to 12 months.
Sometimes, veterans acquire many skills in the course of their military service but the new legislation will help make sure they have marketable skills they need complete the transition back to civilian life, Boozman says.
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