Mark Takano: “I thank the gentleman from Maine for yielding. I rise today to support the increased job opportunities embodied in H.R.…”

“I thank the gentleman from Maine for yielding. I rise today to support the increased job opportunities embodied in H.R. 1412 and the changes it makes to the on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs. I want to thank the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Coffman) for introducing this bill and the Veterans' Affairs Committee leadership, Chairman Miller, Ranking Member Michaud, and subcommittee Chairman Flores for moving this bill through committee. This legislation will expand access for veterans to on-the-job training and apprenticeships, and assist employers in hiring veterans who have shown time and again that their real-world experience, leadership, and countless other skills are great resources for American companies. By reducing the percentage of salary paid to a veteran participating in one of these programs, this bill would make it more attractive for companies to hire veterans doing on-the-job training and apprenticeships. It is our hope that these opportunities will help bridge the employment gaps veterans are currently experiencing. Unfortunately, it is also clear from our subcommittee work that the Department of Veterans Affairs could be doing a better job advertising this great benefit. The more veterans and employers know about these benefits, the more opportunities veterans can have in the job market.…”