Lawmakers in the
Indiana House and Senate have joined State Representative Chuck Moseley,
D-Portage, in his goal to provide more job opportunities for Hoosier
veterans.
According to a
statement released by Moseley’s office on Monday, both chambers have
approved a concurrent resolution authored by Moseley urging the U.S.
Congress to enact legislation that requires the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs to certify all licensure conductor trainee programs for GI Bill
benefits, as prescribed by the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act
of 2010.
“This change will
make it easier for veterans to take part in the trainee programs and will
impact thousands of potential jobs in the railroad industry,” the statement
said.
“Indiana’s
railroads are one of the top employers of Hoosier veterans,” Moseley said.
“They have found a particular niche in serving as train conductors.
Conductors are required on commuter, passenger, and freight trains. They are
the people responsible for the operation of trains to ensure they safely
make it to their destinations. My resolution is designed to clear up some
confusion about whether conductor trainee programs are considered on the job
training, which can ensure that these men and women can receive their earned
GI Bill benefits.”
“Throughout my time
in the Indiana General Assembly, I have made helping Hoosier veterans among
my very top priorities,” Moseley added. “It is the very least we can do to
make a commitment to the men and women who have risked so much for our
country.”