Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023

Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023

This bill authorizes approval of certain commercial driver education programs for purposes of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) educational assistance if the programs meet specified requirements. Under current law, the VA may not approve enrollment of a veteran in courses for programs that do not lead to a standard degree that are offered at a new branch (i.e., a branch that has been operating for less than 2 years) of an educational institution.

Under the bill, a commercial driver education program offered at a new branch of an educational institution may be approved if it is appropriately licensed and uses the same curriculum as a commercial driver education program offered by the educational institution at another location that is already approved for purposes of VA educational assistance.

The educational institution must submit a report demonstrating the curriculum at the new branch is the same as the curriculum at the primary location in order to be exempt from the current prohibition against course approval at new branches.

Bill 118 s 656, also known as the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023, aims to make it easier for veterans to obtain commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) by streamlining the application process and providing additional support and resources.

The bill proposes several key provisions to help veterans transition into civilian careers as commercial truck drivers. One of the main components of the bill is the establishment of a grant program to assist veterans with the costs associated with obtaining a CDL, such as training and testing fees. This grant program would be administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs in collaboration with the Department of Transportation.

Additionally, the bill calls for the creation of a national database of veteran CDL holders to help connect veterans with job opportunities in the commercial trucking industry. This database would be accessible to employers looking to hire qualified veterans for driving positions. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions to ensure that veterans receive credit for their military training and experience when applying for a CDL. This would help expedite the licensing process for veterans who have already received training in driving large vehicles during their time in the military. Overall, the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 seeks to support veterans in their transition to civilian life by providing them with the necessary resources and assistance to pursue careers in the commercial trucking industry. By removing barriers to obtaining a CDL and connecting veterans with job opportunities, the bill aims to help veterans successfully reintegrate into the workforce and achieve economic stability.