Rapid Response Info Alert: HB160 has passed in the Virginia House! (98-Yea 0-Nay)

Click here for a printable PDF of this Info Alert.

What is HB160 you ask?

HB160 is a bipartisan bill that would require a standardized workplace posting that includes basic information about veterans’ benefits and programs available to them. Our nation is home to nearly 16 million veterans of the Armed Forces. Many have come home and entered the civilian workforce in a variety of occupations and industries. We’re extra proud of those who are USW members.

Both our state and nation have shown through policymaking that we respect and honor the patriotic service of our Veterans, and their families, by ensuring the existence of programs to assist in education and training, job placement, health care, and more. These programs help to ease the transition back into civilian life and ensure that families and communities are supported after giving selflessly for our country.

Postings will include the following information on programs and benefits:

• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Crisis Line;
• Contact and website information for the Executive Office of Veterans’ Services and the Department of Veterans’ Services;
• Information about substance abuse and mental health treatment resources;
• Educational, workforce and training resources;
• Resources for tax benefits information;
• Information about obtaining a veteran’s indicator on a state driver’s license or identification card;
• Information about eligibility for unemployment insurance benefits under state or federal law;
• Legal services

Requiring a standardized workplace posting would make it easier on our vets to get the information for available programs and benefits.

HB160 has passed the Virginia State House. USW members Vince Harris, Veterans of Steel Chair at Local 8888, and Luke McCann also of Local 8888, shared their stories by testifying in the Labor and Commerce Sub Committee Hearing, reinforcing how critical our voices are in these fights!

There is still more work to be done!

Stay tuned for future action to get HB160 passed in the Virginia State Senate.

 For additional questions about this issue or ways to get involved in Rapid Response, contact Chad Conley,
USW District 8 Rapid Response Coordinator, at (606) 465-6862 or cconley@usw.org