US Senate Passes Veterans’ Jobs Bill

By Wendy Osher

War Memorial plaque, file photo by Wendy Osher.

The US Senate approved a Jobs Bill for Veterans that encourages businesses to hire unemployed veterans and wounded warriors.

The VOW to Hire Heroes Act also creates training programs to help them transition into the civilian workforce.

The bill was cosponsored by US Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii), who is a member of the Veterans’ Affairs and Armed Services Committees.

“I would not be in the US Senate today without the lessons I learned while serving and the opportunities I had when I returned home, such as the GI Bill and my first job after college as a teacher,” said Sen. Akaka.

Sen Akaka said the legislation will help veterans find jobs and contribute to communities by providing tax credits for businesses that hire unemployed veterans and wounded warriors.

“This is something we should all agree on. I urge our friends in the House to pass this bill as soon as they get back to Washington,” said Akaka.

The Senate approved the VOW to Hire Heroes Act yesterday by vote of 94-1.

“As we commemorate Veterans Day, let’s focus on giving back to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for us,” he said.