Reps. Schneider, Yoho Re-Introduce Bill To Provide On-The-Job Skills Training For Veterans

Press Release

Today Reps. Brad Schneider (D-IL) and Ted Yoho (R-FL) re-introduced the GI Internship Program Act, legislation that would create an internship option for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.

The new program would allow veterans to receive their Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit as a stipend to complete a career transition internship with a qualifying business. The bill requires special consideration be paid to sectors most affected by the economy's growing skills gap, such as manufacturing and small business.

"Since 1944, our country has offered educational opportunities to returning veterans transitioning to civilian life, but some skills are best learned in person rather than in the classroom," said Schneider. "The GI Internship Program Act expands the choices available to veterans by creating an on-the-job training program to gain valuable skills and experience. Matching veterans with businesses is a win-win that helps bridge the skills gap and expand employment opportunities for those who served."

"This bill is a common sense piece of legislation that affords veterans the opportunity to use their G.I. benefits to best suit their needs," said Yoho. "By allowing our veterans to match their earned benefits to their skills - in an apprenticeship program - will help facilitate their transition to civilian life sooner. We should do all we can in Congress to help those who have helped defend our nation."

The GI Internship Program Act includes rigorous reporting requirements to ensure that participating veterans and businesses get the most out of the program. The bill also requires veterans to work at least 35 hours per week over a period of six months to a year. Participating businesses must offer valuable training and experience as well as a reasonable expectation of hiring the veterans upon successful completion of their internships.

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