Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB5153

Introduced
8/4/23  
Refer
8/4/23  
Refer
8/24/23  

Caption

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to employ veterans in certain wildland firefighting activities.

Impact

The implementation of HB 5153 could have significant effects on how veterans engage with federal employment opportunities, particularly in sectors such as fire management and natural resource conservation. By facilitating the hiring of veterans into firefighting positions, the bill intends to reduce unemployment rates among ex-service members and improve the effectiveness of firefighting efforts. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for best practices in employment programs for veterans, which could set a precedent for future legislative efforts aimed at supporting this demographic.

Summary

House Bill 5153 aims to address veteran unemployment by establishing a pilot program that employs veterans in federal wildland firefighting activities. Introduced by Congressman Neguse, the bill tasks the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in coordination with the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior, to create and oversee this program. The initiative seeks to not only provide job opportunities for veterans transitioning from military service but also to enhance the capabilities of federal agencies in managing wildland fire risks.

Contention

While the bill is primarily aimed at supporting veterans, potential areas of contention could arise regarding the sufficiency of funding, the effectiveness of the pilot program, and whether it distracts from other critical veteran support initiatives. The bill mandates that reports be submitted to Congress, evaluating the program's impact and effectiveness, which could lead to discussions over how best to utilize resources for veteran services moving forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB728

To direct the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training to carry out a pilot program on short-term fellowship programs for veterans.

US HB3560

Veteran Wildland Firefighter Employment Act of 2025

US HB10038

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a pilot program on the provision of naloxone to veterans and their caregivers, and for other purposes.

US HB5152

To direct the Secretary of Defense to establish a program to ensure, under certain conditions, that members of the Armed Forces are automatically enrolled in benefits and services under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for which such members are eligible.

US HB5149

To direct the Secretary of Defense to carry out a pilot program to provide stipends to certain members separating from the Armed Forces.

US HB10395

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish and carry out a pilot program to furnish a headstone or burial marker to veterans who died on or before November 1, 1990, and for other purposes.

US HB5014

Employing Veterans to Feed America Act

US HB4584

National Wildland Fire Risk Reduction Program Act

US HB10487

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to provide temporary firearm storage to veterans who seek to store their firearms outside of their residence due to certain mental health conditions, and for other purposes.

US HB6197

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a program to provide grants to certain surviving spouses of veterans to pay for housing.

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