Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs held a hearing on pending legislation, including Senator Jacky Rosen’s Veterans Education Empowerment Act (S. 1881). The Rosen-led bipartisan legislation would create, maintain, and operate Student Veteran Centers at universities and colleges across the nation to help student veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. Rosen introduced the bipartisan and bicameral Veteran Education Empowerment Act alongside Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-21) and Michael Waltz (R-FL-06) in the House of Representatives.
“This hearing is a key step forward in making our bill to create and support Student Veteran Centers at colleges and universities a reality,” said Senator Rosen. “Student veterans often face unique challenges with completing higher education, whether it’s because of long periods away from school or a service-related disability or personal circumstances, and Student Veteran Centers can do so much to help improve those outcomes. It’s my honor to represent and advocate for Nevada’s veterans in the Senate, and it’s our responsibility to help them succeed in the transition from military service to civilian life.”
“Our veterans did not hesitate to answer the call to protect our great nation and we must do everything we can to ensure they have ample opportunity for success in their post-service lives,” said Senator Rubio. “This bill would empower student veterans as they transition from military to civilian life, helping them pursue their education and career goals.”
“Service members returning to civilian life should have the opportunity for success,” said Rep. Frankel. “Student Veteran Centers connect veterans with mentors and resources to facilitate a smooth transition from military life to college life.”
The bipartisan Veteran Education Empowerment Act would reauthorize and improve a grant program, through the Department of Education, designed to help institutions of higher education establish and operate Student Veteran Centers. These centers provide a one-stop-shop for student veterans to find academic support, networking opportunities, peer mentorship, financial assistance, and career services. Grants would authorize up to $500,000 to eligible colleges and universities.
The Veteran Education Empowerment Act is endorsed by over a dozen veteran service organizations including the Student Veterans of America, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, United Way’s Mission United, and Veterans’ Trust.
###