H.R.1884 - Veterans Fellowship Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1884, the Veterans Fellowship Act, directs the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training to establish a pilot program offering short-term fellowship opportunities for veterans. The program would operate through grants or contracts with selected states, which in turn would partner with non-profit organizations. The fellowships would last up to 20 weeks, provide a monthly stipend, and offer potential for long-term employment.
Expected Effects
This bill aims to improve veteran employment outcomes by providing them with short-term work experience and potential pathways to long-term jobs. The pilot program will be evaluated by the Comptroller General, and if successful, could lead to wider implementation. The bill authorizes $10 million in appropriations annually from 2025-2029 to fund the program.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Veteran Employment: Provides veterans with valuable work experience and skills development.
- Potential for Long-Term Employment: Increases the likelihood of veterans securing stable, long-term jobs.
- Economic Contribution: Empowers veterans to contribute more effectively to the economy.
- State and Non-profit Partnerships: Encourages collaboration between state governments and non-profit organizations to support veterans.
- Data-Driven Evaluation: The Comptroller General's report will provide valuable insights into the program's effectiveness.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited Scope: The pilot program is limited to a small number of states (3-5), potentially excluding many veterans.
- Short-Term Focus: The 20-week fellowship may not be sufficient for all veterans to acquire the necessary skills for certain jobs.
- Funding Dependency: The program's success relies on continued appropriations from Congress.
- Administrative Overhead: Establishing and managing the program may involve administrative costs.
- Potential for Inefficient Spending: There is a risk that the funds may not be used effectively, or that the program may not achieve its intended outcomes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to legislate in ways that promote the general welfare of the United States, and supporting veterans falls under this purview. The bill also aligns with Congress's power to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8), as it provides assistance to those who have served in the military.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).