Tester applauds new assistance for veterans seeking transportation jobs

(U.S. SENATE) – Senator Jon Tester, Montana’s only member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, today released the following statement after the U.S. Departments of Transportation and Veterans Affairs announced a new website to help military veterans find jobs in the transportation industry:

“If you drove a heavy-armored vehicle in the military, you’re well on your way to navigating a big rig on the highway.  It’s vital to recognize that skills learned in the military can help put more veterans back to work and strengthen the economy.  I look forward to more smart initiatives that help veterans find good jobs.”

Tester’s bipartisan VOW to Hire Heroes Act – the only jobs bill to pass Congress last year – creates job opportunities for veterans by streamlining the transition from military service to civilian work, expanding training opportunities, and providing tax incentives for companies that hire veterans.  It became law in November.

Tester also introduced “Troops to Truckers” in March.  The bill makes it easier for former military truck drivers to get their commercial driver licenses.

Tester’s bill is also part of the bipartisan Highway Bill that passed the Senate in April by a 74 to 22 margin.  The House of Representatives refuses to vote on the measure that will put Montanans to work upgrading the state’s roads and bridges.

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