On Wednesday, May 28, 2014, the House will consider H.R. 2942, To amend title 38, United States Code, to reestablish the Professional Certification and Licensure Advisory Committee of the Department of Veterans Affairs, under suspension of the rules. H.R. 2942 was introduced on August 1, 2013 by Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-AZ) and was referred to the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
H.R. 2942 reestablishes within the Department of Veterans Affairs the Professional Certification and Licensure Advisory Committee through December 31, 2019. The bill provides that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may appoint members of the committee without regard to whether they previously served on it.
The Professional Certification and Licensure Advisory Committee (PCLAC) “advises the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on credentialing organizations seeking to be recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs in order that veterans can use GI educational benefits to pay the cost of certification tests.”[1] PCLAC terminated on December 31, 2006.
When transitioning from military service to civilian life, licensing and certification requirements can pose significant barriers to employment. Not all veterans who have earned educational benefits will use them for a traditional college education. PCLAC, which is comprised of individuals with subject matter expertise in licensing and certification tests, advises the Secretary on which licensing and certification tests veterans should be able to use their earned GI educational benefits.
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[1] Licensing and Certification, Veterans’ Employment and Training Service, U.S. Department of Labor.
CBO estimates no significant costs associated with H.R. 2942.
For questions or further information contact the GOP Conference at 5-5107.