Veterans’ Hiring Costs Draw Legislators’ Attention

Connecticut lawmakers are considering legislation that removes costly barriers to employment for veterans and employers.

HB 6722 reimburses veterans and/or their sponsors for costs associated with apprenticeship fees, licensing fees, credentialing fees, or educational tuition.

The bill was introduced by Rep. Jamie Foster (D-Ellington), with the Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee hearing public testimony earlier this month. 

There are currently nearly 150,000 veterans in Connecticut, a significant number of whom are unable to afford costs associated with obtaining necessary licenses, certification, and educational outcomes to pursue career paths.

Alleviating costs associated with occupations, apprenticeships, or trade programs under the purview of the Technical Education and Career System or boards or councils within the Department of Consumer Protection or Labor Department, removes significant workforce barriers for veterans.

Opportunity

Connecticut currently has more than 75,000 job openings across every sector of the economy.

Many of those jobs require specific skill sets, including certifications, licenses, and sometimes additional educational attainment.

If just 10% of the state’s nearly 150,000 veterans took advantage of this reimbursement program, an additional 15,000 veterans could enter the workforce. 

“HB 6722 provides veterans with more opportunities to enter the workforce.”

CBIA’s Paul Amarone

As the state continues to make an effort to upgrade infrastructure, improve the electric grid system, and construct new housing, trades and manufacturing companies are dealing with a wave of retirees that will inevitably lead to workforce shortages.

HB 6722 offers the state an opportunity to innovate, while helping veterans support themselves and their families through sustainable career paths.

“Workforce development is at the forefront of our employers’ concerns,” said CBIA’s Paul Amarone.

“HB 6722 not only provides veterans with more opportunities to enter the workforce, it also incentivizes businesses across the state to sponsor veterans and ultimately hire them.”

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For more information, contact CBIA’s Paul Amarone (860.244.1978).