VetsFirst supports proper implementation of new requirements for all transitioning servicemembers to receive information about disability-related employment and education protections. We also support efforts to ensure that veterans with disabilities have the opportunity to receive high-quality vocational rehabilitation services.
On July 30, 2015 President Obama nominated former Congressman Mike Michaud to become the Department of Labor’s assistant secretary for veterans’ employment and training.
Congressman Michaud’s appointment is important for the veterans’ community because he has worked on and understands the full scope of issues that affect veterans. While in Congress, he was the ranking member on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. In his tenure as chairman of the Health Subcommittee of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee he was an advocate for expanding healthcare benefits for veterans. He worked on legislation to provide scholarships for returning servicemembers, cosponsored legislation to provide tax credits for employers who hire veterans and he combated veteran homelessness.
The Veterans’ Employment Training Service which Congressman Michaud would lead serves America’s veterans and separating service members by preparing them for meaningful careers, providing employment resources and expertise, and protecting their employment rights. While this service is focused specifically on employment, Congressman Michaud’s experience should provide him with the ability to approach veteran employment as part of a broader plan to reintegrate veterans into all facets of society.