House Approves Bill to Help Michigan Veterans Find Jobs

The Michigan House unanimously approved legislation Wednesday sponsored by state Rep. Mark Ouimet that will help veterans return to work faster when returning to civilian life.

House Bill 5583 is part of a legislative package that speeds the licensing process in Michigan for veterans. HB 5583 allows experienced military plumbers to be recognized as plumbers by the state of Michigan.

"Michigan service members were certainly in our thoughts as we honored the Sept. 11 anniversary this week, and it's fitting that we approve genuine legislation to help them when they return home," said Ouimet, R-Scio Township.  "Veterans who have worked as plumbers in Iraq and Afghanistan have developed valuable skills under the most severe conditions. They should be recognized as certified plumbers so they can more quickly find work here in Michigan."

A June 2011 report by the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee showed that the unemployment rate among veterans in Michigan was significantly higher than the national average. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Michigan veterans had the worst rate of unemployment among veterans.

HB 5583 now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Editor's note: This press release was submitted by Rep. Mark Ouimet's Office.