Tucson Standard

Washington - U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06) has introduced a new bipartisan effort aimed at broadening veterans' access to educational opportunities for skilled trade and vocational programs. The legislation, known as the Veterans Education and Technical Skills (VETS) Opportunity Act, seeks to extend educational benefits under the post-9/11 GI Bill to include partially online versions of skilled trade training programs.

Ciscomani, who represents over 70,000 veterans in Arizona’s 6th Congressional District, emphasized the importance of modernizing veterans' GI benefits to align with the evolving educational landscape. He stated, "As more and more students gravitate towards virtual educational programs, we need to ensure our veterans have the same access to online learning."

The bill has garnered support from various quarters, with Congressman Richard Hudson noting, "As veterans transition to civilian life, it is our duty to give them the support they need to succeed."

The CEO of Pipeline AZ, Amber Smith, a member of Ciscomani’s Veterans Advisory Council, expressed enthusiasm for the VETS Opportunity Act, highlighting its significance in empowering veterans for success in the workforce. Smith remarked, "This legislation is a crucial step towards empowering our veterans with the education and skills they need to thrive in today's workforce."

Supporting the initiative, John Bowen Sr., Chairman of the American Legion Veterans Employment & Education Commission, emphasized the need to expand eligibility for veterans enrolled in high-quality, postsecondary programs offered in a hybrid educational format that teach in-demand skilled trades.

The National Association of State Approving Agencies (NASAA) also voiced their endorsement, stating, "NASAA is pleased to support this legislation," underscoring the importance of utilizing online methodologies to deliver quality education and training for veterans.

The bipartisan effort led by Congressman Ciscomani reflects a commitment to enhancing veterans' access to educational opportunities in skilled trades, addressing workforce shortages, and facilitating successful transitions to civilian life.