Rep. Rutherford Announces the Veterans Armed for Success Act

Press Release

Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04), along with Congressman Al Lawson (FL-05), recently introduced H.R. 3965, the Veterans Armed for Success Act. This legislation creates a grant matching program for organizations that provide job readiness programs for veterans. These programs help ensure veterans have the skills they need to transition into a civilian workforce.

Congressman Rutherford said, "Throughout Northeast Florida, I have heard from business owners and hiring managers who want to hire veterans. Our military veterans have a proven record of being reliable, dedicated and hard-working, and their varied experience translates well into many careers. Yet, many veterans have been frustrated with their post-service opportunities. We need to do more to help these veterans succeed when they transition into civilian life. Operation New Uniform in Jacksonville and similar programs throughout the country give veterans greater opportunities to transition into stable, long-term employment. Doing so strengthens families, builds a strong local workforce, and improves the mental health of our veterans. I thank Congressman Lawson for his commitment to our veterans by introducing this bill with me, and we look forward to seeing many more veterans find fulfilling careers in Northeast Florida."

Congressman Al Lawson said, "Too often, American veterans who have selflessly served our country, return home to little or no job prospects. The Veterans Armed for Success Act equips local organizations with the support they need to train our veterans, and their loved ones, as they transition from serving their country to pursing a professional career. I am proud to work beside my friend and colleague Rep. Rutherford on an issue that extends beyond partisan politics and works to create a better quality of life for all American veterans."

Justin Justice, Executive Director of Operation New Uniform said, "I am proud to be with Congressman Rutherford to announce the Veterans Armed for Success Act, he is championing to help organizations, like Operation New Uniform have the resources they need to make a greater impact. He has been committed to our community and state for many years, and now having a greater platform throughout the country, he is making changes on a national level that will better serve the military community and my fellow veterans."

Through their skilled-based learning and training, 97% of veterans who have graduated from Operation New Uniform have found meaningful careers within four months of completion. Operation New Uniform is funded through private donations, limiting the number of veterans who can participate in their program. Currently, no federal grant programs exist for veteran job-readiness organizations similar to Operation New Uniform. ONU is just one example of the many organizations that work to ensure veterans receive long term careers.

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