House Approves Boozman Veterans Bill
Legislation introduced by U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR) aimed at reauthorizing the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) passed the U.S. House of Representatives by voice vote Monday.
H.R. 1171 reauthorizes the HVRP program for five years through Fiscal Year 2014. HVRP provides grants to homeless veteran providers for job skill training and employment services.
In a Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing last week, Ranking Member Rep. Steve Buyer (R-IN), amended the legislation to include the language of a Noble Warrior Initiative, H.R. 293, the Homeless Women Veterans and Veterans with Children Reintegration Grant Program. This legislation directs the Secretary of Labor to carry out a grant program to provide reintegration services through programs and facilities that emphasize services for homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children. Boozman is an original co-sponsor of H.R. 293.
"Job training and employment assistance are critical components of our commitment to providing our veterans with the resources necessary for them to succeed in civilian life," Boozman said. "Passage of this legislation is a crucial step for us to ensure that all veterans have the tools they need to achieve the standard of living they deserve."
Boozman spoke on the merits of the bill on the House floor. Click here to read the remarks and here to see a video clip.