Bill > HR3579

This bill makes several important changes to the Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program to improve its efficiency and accountability. First, it requires veterans to submit their work records and educational transcripts when applying for an initial evaluation, ensuring that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has comprehensive information about each applicant. The bill also establishes a maximum duration of employment assistance, limiting veterans to 365 days of support, with the possibility of an additional 180 days if a counselor certifies that the veteran is actively seeking employment. Additionally, the bill mandates new data collection and reporting requirements, requiring the VA to track and report on veterans' employment outcomes, including their regional office and annual wages before and after completing the vocational rehabilitation program. The VA must also publish average wait times between a veteran's initial program request and their first counseling meeting. Furthermore, the bill requires an independent review of rehabilitation programs by a non-VA entity within one year, with the goal of generating recommendations to improve and modernize these services. These provisions aim to enhance the transparency, effectiveness, and support provided to veterans through the VR&E Program.

Business and Industry, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3579/all-info