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VA Work-Study Improvement Act
3/6/2024, 8:15 AM
Summary of Bill HR 3600
The bill aims to make several key changes to the current work-study program. One of the main provisions of the bill is to increase the hourly wage that veterans can earn while participating in the work-study program. This increase in wages is intended to better reflect the cost of living and help veterans cover their expenses while attending school.
Additionally, the bill seeks to expand the types of work-study opportunities available to veterans. This includes adding new job opportunities in fields such as mental health counseling, peer support, and other areas that are relevant to the needs of veterans. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions to improve outreach and communication about the work-study program to veterans. This is aimed at increasing awareness of the program and ensuring that more veterans are able to take advantage of the benefits it offers. Overall, the VA Work-Study Improvement Act is designed to enhance the work-study program for veterans, providing them with increased opportunities for employment and financial support while pursuing their education.
Congressional Summary of HR 3600
VA Work-Study Improvement Act
This bill modifies certain pay and eligibility requirements under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) work-study program, including minimum wage and timesheet requirements.
The bill expands the list of qualifying work-study activities to include state government, local government, or nonprofit organization activities that would benefit veterans or members of the Armed Forces.
The bill also modifies minimum wage requirements under the work-study program. Under the bill, the hourly minimum wage paid under the work-study program must be the higher of (1) the minimum rate of basic pay for any federal employee (under the general schedule or federal wage system pursuant to specified regulations), (2) the hourly minimum wage in the state where the services are to be performed, or (3) the hourly minimum wage of the local government with jurisdiction over the area in which the services are to be performed.
Additionally, the VA must ensure that (1) an individual participating in a qualifying work-study activity may electronically record such hours, and (2) the supervisor may electronically approve such records.
Finally, the VA must annually publish specified information regarding qualifying work-study activities carried out during the year, including the demographics of individuals participating in the program.
