Peace Garden News

Congress has passed the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, a bipartisan and bicameral legislation aimed at enhancing veterans' access to healthcare and benefits. This new law includes the VET-TEC Authorization Act, spearheaded by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Angus King (I-ME), who are members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. The act will fund the Veterans Technology Education Courses (VET-TEC) program, which had expired earlier this year.

The VET-TEC program, established in 2017, has supported thousands of veterans in securing employment within the technology sector. With an 84% graduation rate, it offers tuition assistance at eligible training institutions, housing stipends, and links to potential employers.

Senator Cramer stated, “The VET-TEC program has created effective pathways for veterans to launch their careers in tech.” He added that reauthorizing the program would expand eligibility to include more veterans. "Supporting our veterans includes enhancing the employment resources and opportunities available to them," he noted while expressing his gratitude for Congress's backing of the bill.

Senator King remarked on the success of VET-TEC as a resource for veterans seeking well-paying jobs in technology. “The reauthorization of the VET-TEC Authorization Act expands eligibility for both veterans and training institutions,” he said. He emphasized that despite differences on various issues, it was gratifying to see both chambers and parties unite in support of those who have served.