Virginia 2024 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HB160

Introduced
1/2/24  
Refer
1/2/24  
Report Pass
1/23/24  
Engrossed
1/26/24  
Refer
1/30/24  
Report Pass
2/19/24  
Enrolled
2/27/24  
Chaptered
4/4/24  

Caption

Veterans; workplace poster for benefits and services.

Impact

The legislation introduces a requirement for employers to display this informational poster alongside other legally mandated employee notices, which could help improve the workplace environment for veterans by ensuring they are aware of their entitlements. By making this information universally accessible, the bill aims to enhance the overall support system for veterans as they transition into civilian life or seek adjustments in their professional lives. Furthermore, this may also encourage employers to collaborate more with the Department of Veterans Services to create a supportive workplace culture for veterans.

Summary

House Bill 160 mandates the creation of a poster that outlines various benefits and services available to veterans, to be distributed to all employers in the Commonwealth of Virginia. This bill highlights the need for veterans to be informed about available resources such as mental health treatment, educational opportunities, and tax benefits. The poster will list essential contact information for the Department of Veterans Services and the Veterans Crisis Line, aiming to streamline access to critical support.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB160 appears to be positive, as it addresses a significant need for veteran support within the state. Lawmakers and advocates likely view the measure as a proactive step towards improving awareness of veterans' services. This can foster an environment where veterans receive the help they need, thus reinforcing their rights and promoting their well-being. Overall, the response from the legislative committee has been supportive, with a complete passing vote indicating a strong consensus on the importance of this initiative.

Contention

While there seems to be general support, the bill does raise some questions about the logistics of implementation and the responsibilities placed on employers. Concerns could be raised regarding how well employers will adapt to incorporating this new requirement into their existing operations and whether they will have the resources to effectively share this information. Nevertheless, any contention appears mild and focused more on practicalities rather than opposition to the bill's core intentions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA HB2473

Veterans; workplace poster for veterans benefits and services.

VA HB2003

Employment; training and education, sexual harassment and workplace discrimination.

VA HB1616

Workplace violence; policy required for certain employers, civil penalty.

VA HB1975

Income tax, state; Foreign Service retirement benefits subtraction.

VA HB1716

Mental health resources; inclusion on Job Safety and Health Protection poster.

VA SB486

Protective orders; workplace violence.

VA SB1082

Veterans Services, Dept. of; hospitals that furnish comprehensive treatment program for veterans.

VA HB1460

Income tax, state; subtraction for low-income mil. veteran w/permanent service-connected disability.

VA HB1565

Military spouses; burial fees at a veterans cemetery operated by Department of Veterans Services.

VA SJR251

Black World War II veterans; acknowledging with profound regret denial of benefits under G.I. Bill.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.