Dexter’s Legislation to Cut Red Tape, Get Veterans Jobs Becomes Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03) announced that her Focused Assistance and Skills Training for Veterans' Employment and Transition Success (FAST VETS) Act became law. The FAST VETS Act makes the Department of Veterans Affairs' Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program more efficient to better connect disabled veterans with good-paying jobs.

"I've cared for veterans throughout my career as a physician and I have seen how much they have sacrificed for our freedom. I am steadfast in my resolve to deliver on the promise our nation made to them to honor their service with the best benefits possible. That belief sustained my drive to fight relentlessly against the odds to get this legislation passed," said Dexter. "I will continue to fight unapologetically to get things done for my community, no matter who is in charge."

"We remain committed to ensuring veterans receive the employment support and career counseling they've earned through their service, and this week that commitment was solidified in law. Strengthening the VR&E program will make a lasting difference in the lives of veterans, easing the challenging transition veterans may face when entering civilian careers. I am proud to have worked with Representative Maxine Dexter on the FAST VETS Act and elated that she successfully got a bill signed into law in her first term on Capitol Hill. I look forward to continuing to work with her on future legislation that safeguards the benefits and services our veterans have earned and depend on," said Ranking Member Mark Takano.

Following the passage of the PACT Act, more veterans became eligible for the VR&E program, causing enrollment to rise significantly. This surge has resulted in longer wait times for veterans looking to access the program. Dexter's FAST VETS Act makes critical program improvements to streamline veterans' progression through the program-supporting timely graduation and employment-and enable counselors to serve a greater number of veterans.

Congresswoman Dexter serves on the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and is one of only three physicians in Congress who provided care to veterans at the VA. She serves on both the Subcommittee on Health and the Subcommittee on Disability and Memorial Affairs.

For a one-page fact sheet on this legislation, click here.For full bill text, click here.

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