As many of you know, a recent Associated Press article dated February 8, 2008 highlighted the troubles encountered by recently released servicemembers in obtaining employment.  The article went on to cite an Employment Histories Report published for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs which concludes more can be done by the public and private sectors to ensure servicemembers are successful in obtaining employment after their service to our country.  Furthermore, the article refers to a U.S. Department of Labor’s USERRA Annual Report to Congress which cites a high rate of USERRA complaints by returning Guard and Reserve forces. 

I know I am not alone when I say that this article raises serious concerns about the problems encountered by many of our constituents.  Today’s hearing gives us the venue to reevaluate several programs that may help them succeed in life after the military.  These programs include the: Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program; Office of Special Counsel and U.S. Department of Labor’s – Veterans’ Employment and Training Service Demonstration Project; Apprenticeship and On-The-Job Training benefit levels; and Adjustable Rate Mortgage demonstration projects.

I look forward to working with Ranking Member Boozman and Members of this Subcommittee to continue to improve readjustment benefits available to all servicemembers and veterans.