Cardin, Inhofe Introduce Senate Comparison to Delaney Veterans' Education Bill

Press Release

Senators Ben Cardin (MD) and James Inhofe (OK) have introduced a Senate companion to Congressman John K. Delaney's (MD-6) Veterans' Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act (H.R. 2011). Filed Monday, S.1643 authorizes the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Education through December 31, 2015, and expands the makeup of the Committee to include post 9/11 veterans. Absent legislative action, the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Education will sunset on December 31, 2013.

The Delaney bill passed the House by a 404 to 2 vote on October 28. Congressman Delaney's floor speech on the bill can be viewed here.

"It's an honor to partner with Senator Cardin and Senator Inhofe on this important legislation. Improving outcomes for our veterans is an obligation we all share," said Congressman Delaney. "By reauthorizing the Committee, we will ensure that our nation's brave men and women receive effective and efficient job training programs that befit their service to our nation. I thank both Senators for their support and I look forward to working towards the bill's passage in the Senate."

"A true marker of our nation's worth is our willingness to serve those who have served us," said Senator Cardin. "As we wind down our commitments in Afghanistan after a decade of war, we need to gear up our commitment to our veterans. I'm proud to partner with Congressman Delaney and Senator Inhofe on this legislation that will ensure that the brave men and women who serve our country in the armed services receive the most effective education and training opportunities available. Our veterans deserve every possible tool to help ease their transition to civilian life."

The Veterans' Advisory Committee on Education advises the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on improving education and job training programs for veterans. The Committee is composed of veterans and experts in the fields of education, labor, and management. Since 2003, the VA has implemented 57 recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Education.

The Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Students Veterans Association (SVA), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) have all issued statements in support of H.R. 2011. Their statements of support can be read here.

Senator Inhofe is the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Source