WASHINGTON – Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), a Marine Corps combat veteran, and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced the Veterans Education and Technical Skills (VETS) Opportunity Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would extend educational benefits in the post-9/11 GI Bill to include partially online (or hybrid) versions of skilled trade training programs. As these programs are increasingly common in high-paying, high-demand fields like welding, HVAC, and construction, this bill helps ensure veterans aren’t left behind as the workforce evolves.
“Our veterans deserve access to training programs that prepare them for the modern economy, and increasingly those programs are happening in a hybrid format,” said Senator Gallego. “I’m proud to help introduce this bipartisan, commonsense bill that will expand educational opportunities for veterans so they can succeed after their service.”
“This commonsense legislation modernizes the post-9/11 GI Bill to expand veterans’ access to high-quality skilled trade and vocational programs for in-demand career pathways like welding and HVAC, ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to succeed in today’s workforce,” said Senator Tillis. “By supporting hybrid learning opportunities, we’re providing veterans with the flexibility to gain critical skills, find gainful employment, and contribute to our economy after their service.”
Joining Senators Gallego and Tillis were Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Gary Peters (D-MI), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).
Full text of the legislation is available HERE.