Hamadeh Unveils Game-Changing Bipartisan Bill to Boost Veteran Employment and Readiness

By Matthew Holloway |

Arizona Congressman Abraham Hamadeh, in a bipartisan effort, has unveiled the Veterans Readiness & Employment Transparency Act. The initiative sees collaboration with Rep. Juan Ciscomani and fellow representatives from across the country, including Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Greg Murphy (R-NC), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Sam Graves (R-MO), and Rob Wittman (R-VA).

This legislation aims to improve access and responsiveness within the Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, which supports veterans in job training, education, and employment assistance. Currently, veterans face significant challenges, including a lack of a dedicated hotline and minimal contact information from regional offices, leading to wait times that can stretch from two weeks to over five months.

In particular, the Phoenix regional office reports an average wait time of 68 days for veterans seeking their first evaluation. Congressman Hamadeh emphasized the issue, stating, “Many say the VR&E program is the Department of Veterans Affairs’ best-kept secret, yet veterans struggle to navigate the complex application process.” He noted that this often leaves them feeling neglected by their counselors.

In a statement on X, Hamadeh remarked, “Our veterans did not hesitate to serve our nation. We cannot afford to hesitate when they seek our help. The Veterans Readiness & Employment Transparency Act is common-sense legislation with bipartisan backing.”

The proposed bill mandates the creation of a hotline for veteran inquiries and requires all regional offices to provide accessible contact details online. Additionally, it stipulates that regional offices conduct Q&A sessions on VR&E programs at local schools and submit an annual report on vocational training extension waivers, which must be approved or denied within a 30-day timeframe.

Rep. Juan Ciscomani echoed Hamadeh’s sentiments, stating, “When our veterans return home, they deserve easy access to the support and benefits they’ve earned.” He highlighted the bureaucratic hurdles that often prevent injured veterans from receiving essential assistance for job training and education.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.