Veterans Education and Technical Skills Opportunity Act of 2025

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. CISCOMANI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1458, the VETS Opportunity Act of 2025, a bill I introduced to modernize veterans' education benefits and align them with today's workforce needs.

As I represent nearly 80,000 veterans in southern Arizona, I know firsthand when servicemembers transition to civilian life, they bring discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic, but too often the system limits how they can use the benefits that they earned. This bill changes that by modernizing the GI Bill and expanding access to high- quality certificates and technical training programs, possibly offered in a hybrid format, that lead directly to good-paying jobs in high- demand fields.

Not every veteran wants or needs a traditional 4-year degree. Many want fast, skills-based training that connects them to careers in the trades, healthcare, technology, and other critical fields. This bill recognizes reality, and it gives veterans the flexibility to choose the path that works best for them and their families.

Furthermore, this legislation includes clear protections to ensure the program operates efficiently and that veterans' benefits are used responsibly as well. Programs like this one must be accredited, approved by the VA, and provide regular and substantive interaction between instructors and students.

The VETS Opportunity Act is about modernizing our VA benefits and programs to empower veterans, strengthen the workforce, and honor the promise this country made to those who served. By strengthening education benefits, we empower veterans, build a stronger workforce, and drive a stronger economy.

This bill turns service into opportunity and commitment into careers. That is what our veterans deserve, and that is what our communities need.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1458 and vote ``yes.''

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source