U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono and Jerry Moran have introduced the Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to ensure that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) supports family caregivers of veterans as they transition into the workforce or retirement after their caregiving duties end.
Senator Hirono emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Family caregivers provide critical care to their veteran loved ones, and when their time as a caregiver concludes, it is often difficult for them to transition back to work or into retirement.” She added that the bill would help ensure that VA provides necessary resources such as employment assistance, retirement planning, and bereavement counseling.
The proposed act mandates that VA offer support services to veteran caregivers who are returning to school, reentering the workforce, or retiring once their caregiving responsibilities are no longer required. The support includes employment assistance programs and reimbursement for fees related to maintaining professional certifications or re-licensure. Additionally, it requires a study on barriers faced by veteran caregivers when reentering the workforce and a report on establishing a retirement plan for them.
Senator Hirono has been actively involved in supporting veterans through various legislative efforts. Recently, she introduced several bills aimed at enhancing healthcare services for veterans and expanding access to capital for veteran-owned small businesses.
