Rep. Tyler Sirois, Sen. Tom Wright Join Gov. Ron DeSantis for Signing of Veterans Employment, Training Legislation
By Space Coast Daily // June 5, 2021
16,000 service members transition from military service to civilian life each year
BREVARD COUNTY • MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA – Representative Tyler Sirois and Senator Tom Wright joined Governor Ron DeSantis as he signed into law HB 435 relating to the employment and training of veterans in the State of Florida.
Veterans and community members joined them for the announcement at Valley Post 233 American Legion in Ponte Vedra Beach.
HB 435 directs Veterans Florida, through its Veterans Employment and Training Services Program, to serve as the State of Florida’s principal assistance organization under the United States Department of Defense SkillBridge Program to match transitioning service members with training and employment opportunities within the state.
“From 2014 to 2018, on average, 16,000 servicemembers transitioned from military service to civilian life each year in the State of Florida,” said Sirois.
“Many of these transitioning servicemembers face common challenges during their adjustment to civilian life, including the pursuit of training opportunities and resume building.”
HB 435 will provide Veterans Florida with resources to connect employers to Florida’s talented military members transitioning to civilian life and seeking new career opportunities.
Under the SkillBridge program, Veterans Florida will educate stakeholders on available opportunities and resources; assist businesses in obtaining approval for skilled workforce training such as apprenticeships, internships, and fellowships; and match eligible transitioning servicemembers with career and training opportunities statewide.
“As Florida continues to be the most veteran-friendly state, the SkillBridge program will be a tremendous help to our transitioning service members by connecting them to new career opportunities following their service to our country,” said Wright.
“We have heard from many employers who are seeking a workforce that is disciplined, skilled, and committed to the mission at hand.”
Veterans Florida is a non-profit organization created by the Florida Legislature to help military veterans transition to civilian life.
“With the passing of HB 435, we continue our commitment to making Florida the most supportive state in the nation when it comes to our veterans and their families,” said Sirois.
The provisions of the bill signed into law by Governor DeSantis will take effect on July 1, 2021.
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