H.R.2625 - Veterans Employment Readiness Yield Act of 2025; VERY Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2625, the Veterans Employment Readiness Yield Act of 2025 (VERY Act), proposes amending Title 38 of the United States Code to update terminology related to veteran employment. Specifically, it aims to replace the terms "employment handicap" and "employment handicaps" with "employment barrier" and "employment barriers," respectively. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 3, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is a change in language used in federal statutes regarding veteran employment. This change is intended to modernize terminology and potentially reduce any negative connotations associated with the term "handicap." The practical impact on veteran employment programs and services is likely to be minimal, as the core functions and eligibility criteria would remain unchanged.
Potential Benefits
- Modernized Language: Updates outdated and potentially offensive terminology.
- Improved Perception: May improve public perception and understanding of veteran employment challenges.
- Enhanced Dignity: Could contribute to a more respectful and inclusive environment for veterans seeking employment.
- Symbolic Importance: Demonstrates a commitment to using appropriate and sensitive language in government documents.
- Potential for Further Reform: Could pave the way for more substantial reforms in veteran employment programs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited Practical Impact: The change is primarily semantic and may not directly address the underlying challenges veterans face in finding employment.
- Resource Allocation: Time and resources spent on this terminology update could potentially be directed towards more impactful initiatives.
- Potential for Misinterpretation: Some may view the change as superficial or insufficient to address systemic issues.
- Risk of Unintended Consequences: Although unlikely, changes in legal terminology can sometimes lead to unforeseen legal interpretations.
- Lack of Measurable Outcomes: It may be difficult to quantify the direct benefits of this terminology change.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the lives of veterans. Specifically, the general welfare clause is found in the preamble of the US Constitution. Furthermore, as a bill modifying existing laws, it falls under the legislative powers granted to Congress in Article I, Section 8. The act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
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).