AUGUSTA – The Maine Senate approved legislation to provide support services for military members transitioning back into civilian life on Thursday.
“Maine veterans have served our country with incredible integrity and honor. They should be welcomed and celebrated back into our state, communities, and workforce. However, for many veterans, the transition back into civilian life is painfully difficult,” said President Jackson. “We owe it to our veterans to make this transition as seamless as possible and make sure they have the support they need every step of the way.”
LD 1952, “An Act To Provide Support Services for Military Members Transitioning to Civilian Life in Maine” – sponsored by Rep. Maureen Terry, D–Gorham – will provide ongoing funding for the Department of Defense, Veterans, and Emergency Management to provide personalized and proactive support for active-duty military members, and their families, who are transitioning to civilian life by recruiting them to relocate to Maine.
“The skills our servicemen and women develop through their military experience make them exceptional candidates for employers all across the state,” aid Sen. Louie Luchini, D-Ellsworth, Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee. “Amid significant workforce shortages all across the state, Maine should prioritize helping our veterans transition their military experience into success in the workforce.”
Maine has a high number of veterans per capita compared to the rest of the country. According to a recent report by the National Conference of State Legislatures, Maine is one of six states where veterans account for ten percent of the population.
The bill received overwhelming support from Maine businesses at a public hearing earlier this year. LD 1952 will receive additional votes before the House in the Senate.
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