Piscopo Supports Veterans Workforce Bill
HARTFORD – In support of military veterans, State Representative John Piscopo (R-Thomaston) voted in favor of legislation aimed at assisting those who’ve been discharged from service transition back into civilian life and workforce. The measure will allow credit for military service and waive fees on certain licenses and exams for veterans entering the workforce.
H.B. 5299 – An Act Concerning the Findings of the Military Occupational Specialty Task Force – requires various governmental entities to certify, waive, grant, or award certain licenses, registrations, examinations, training, or credit for veterans with military experience or qualifications.
“I proudly voted for this legislation in hopes that it will provide our military veterans with support as they look to re-enter civilian life and the workforce,” said Piscopo. “It is important that we show our veterans that we support them, that we honor their service to our country, and that we will continue to support them when they come home and establish their lives. On-the-job training is inherent to military service. Now, our veterans will be able to apply that training and be given the appropriate working credit as well.”
Under the bill, unless specifically noted, a veteran is anyone honorably discharged or released under honorable conditions from active service from the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force and any of their reserve components.
The legislation would also waive operators’ license exams at the Department of Motor Vehicles and the apprentice requirement for certain occupations before sitting for licensing exams. Additionally, the legislation outlines conditions under which military service can be substituted for college credit.
Additionally, veterans upon discharge from the armed forces or National Guard may submit an application for military training evaluation to the Department of Labor (DOL) apprentice training program. If the DOL Commissioner determines the applicant’s military training is equivalent and transferrable, the applicant’s hours of qualified military training may be applied toward specific trade apprenticeship training requirements.
The bill passed unanimously in the General Assembly and awaits signature by the Governor.
The General Assembly of Connecticut adjourned the 2014 legislative session on May 7th at midnight.
Rep. Piscopo represents the 76th District in the General Assembly.
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