Blunt’s HIRE Vets Act Headed to the President’s Desk

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.), a member of the Congressional Veterans Jobs Caucus, today touted Senate passage of his Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing (HIRE) Veterans Act. The bipartisan measure establishes a tiered recognition program within the Department of Labor to award employers based on their contributions to veteran employment.

“Each year, nearly 200,000 service members transition from active duty to civilian life, and finding the right opportunity in the private sector can prove challenging,” Blunt said. “This bill will help connect more veterans with employers that recognize the unique value they bring to the job. I’m glad we were able to take another step toward fulfilling our promises to those who have served by encouraging more employers to establish or expand programs geared toward veterans hiring and career development.”

The HIRE Vets Act would recognize qualified employers for meeting certain criteria designed to encourage veteran-friendly businesses, including: what percentage of new hires, or the overall workforce, is made up of veterans; what types of training and leadership development opportunities are made available; what other benefits and resources are offered, such as tuition assistance; and other factors that demonstrate a commitment to supporting veterans throughout their post-military careers.

The recognition would come in the form of a Medallion Award, given at the platinum and gold levels.

The Senate passed the measure as part of the FY2017 government funding bill. It is now headed to the president’s desk.