Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Angus King have sent a letter to the Department of Labor (DOL), urging them to change eligibility criteria for veterans looking to enter the workforce. Specifically, they are calling for transitioning service members to be categorized as eligible for career services programs funded by Jobs for Veterans State Grants (JVSG).

The JVSG program provides federal funding to State Workforce Agencies, allowing them to hire staff who provide veterans and eligible individuals facing employment barriers with personalized career and training-related services. Additionally, these programs assist employers in filling open positions with job-seeking veterans. However, transitioning service members are currently ineligible to participate in JVSG programs because they are not yet formally considered "veterans."

In their letter, the senators highlighted the importance of including transitioning service members in these programs. They stated, "A transitioning service member who is not designated as lacking career readiness standards, and who proactively reaches out to a local career center supported by a JVSG funded staff member to prepare for their transition, are ineligible to receive the full suite of services that are otherwise provided to veterans with significant barriers to employment."

The senators emphasized that approximately 200,000 service members transition out of military service into civilian life each year, and this period is filled with uncertainty and challenges. One of the main stressors faced by transitioning service members is finding a job. The senators noted that struggling with unemployment or experiencing a lack of fulfillment in employment can lead to poorer mental health and well-being among veterans. They also pointed out the alarming number of veteran suicides that occur within two to three years of separation from active duty.

To address these issues, Cassidy and King called for a change in the eligibility criteria for the Jobs for Veterans State Grant. They urged the Department of Labor to include all transitioning service members up to six months prior to their separation. They believe that providing resources and assistance in finding meaningful employment during this critical time will help veterans transition successfully from the highly structured military lifestyle.

In conclusion, the senators appealed to Assistant Secretary James Rodriguez to take action in improving the servicemember transition experience and ensuring a fulfilling career for veterans. They emphasized the vital role that the Department of Labor plays in providing training and assistance to servicemembers during this challenging period.

The full letter can be read here.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-king-lead-letter-urging-labor-department-to-remove-barriers-holding-back-vets-from-job-opportunities