Congressman Davis-Led VETS Opportunity Act Passes House to Expand Job Training for Veterans

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)voted to pass H.R. 1458, the Veterans Education and Technical Skills (VETS) Opportunity Act, a bill to extend educational benefits in the post-9/11 GI Bill to include both in-person and partially online (or hybrid) versions of skilled trade training programs. The bipartisan legislation, which Congressman Davis co-led with Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), passed the House without objection by voice vote.

"We must ensure our veterans have access to opportunities that will set them up for success in the workforce," said Congressman Don Davis. "To that end, it is time for Congress to support common-sense legislation like the VETS Opportunity Act, which will give back to those who sacrificed so much for our nation."

Prior to the vote, Congressman Don Davis took the House floor to urge his colleagues to support the bill. Below is a transcript of his speech:

"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Chairman Bost, and Ranking Member Takano. I appreciate your leadership.

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1458, the VETS Opportunity Act of 2025. As a proud United States Air Force veteran and voice for over 56,000 veterans and their families in North Carolina's First Congressional District, it was an honor to join and work with the gentleman from Arizona, Mr. Ciscomani, in introducing this bipartisan legislation.

For too many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life comes with uncertainty about how to build a new career and support their families. By expanding in-person and hybrid training options for skilled trade programs, we are bridging skill gaps across the country, we are empowering our veterans, and contributing to our local economies.

So, Madam Speaker, I believe it's time to equip eastern North Carolina's veterans and beyond with the training and skills they so need. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back."

The full speech is available HERE.