Crisco: Bill will help vets apply skills in civilian jobs

HARTFORD -  State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, participated Tuesday in a press conference in support of a bill that will address barriers to employment for military veterans.

H.B. 5299, An Act Concerning The Findings of The Military Occupation Specialty Task Force will require that state licensing authorities accept military training and experience,where appropriate, as a substitute for additional training, and will allow veterans to gain streamlined occupational certifications.

“There is no reason why we should be placing additional burdens on our veterans seeking employment,” Crisco said. “Many of these veterans are eminently qualified for employment thanks to their military service, and it is time that they receive the credit they deserve as a result of their profession training and experience.”

In 2013, the state had 250,000 veterans with a veteran unemployment rate of 7 percent. Crediting military training and experience in Connecticut’s licensing and educational programs will increase employment rates for Connecticut’s veterans.

This bill will require various state agencies to certify, waive, grant, or award certain licenses, registrations, examinations, training, or credit for veterans whose military occupational specialty are similar or meet the same standards as its civilian equivalent.

Within two years of being discharged from service, assuming the discharge is not dishonorable, all fees will be waived as permitted by federal law. 
It will also allow college credits to be awarded for military training as it relates to an academic program.

The bill was passed by the House of Representatives on Monday and now awaits a vote in the Senate. 


This is a press release from Crisco's office.