Washington, Jun 17 – Iowa Congressman Tom Latham told a group of Iowa employers on Friday that everyone wins when local businesses hire soldiers returning from deployments overseas. |Washington, Jun 17 – Iowa Congressman Tom Latham told a group of Iowa employers on Friday that everyone wins when local businesses hire soldiers returning from deployments overseas.
For the soldiers, a good job eases their transition back into civilian life. At the same time, the employer adds a worker to their payroll with a proven record of leadership, experience, discipline and integrity.
“It really is a win-win situation, and it’s so important that we do everything we can to help these heroes when they return home from deployments,” Congressman Latham said during a round-table discussion at Camp Dodge in Johnston. “One of the best ways we can help these patriots make the transition is to put them in touch with local employers who are looking to hire the best and brightest.”
Congressman Latham led the panel discussion on jobs for returning soldiers at the Iowa National Guard Freedom Center at Camp Dodge. The panel included representatives from the military and local employers and was held in conjunction with the Employers Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the Employer Partnership Office (EPO).
The economic downturn has had a significant impact on veterans who return from deployments and seek jobs. The estimated jobless rate among male veterans ages 18-24 was more than 30 percent in May, compared with 18 percent among male civilians of that age group, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Congressman Latham has co-sponsored several pieces of legislation to provide employers with incentives to hire returning soldiers. The Hire a Hero Act, HR 743, would allow employers that hire current members of the Guard and Reserve to receive a work opportunity tax credit. He’s also co-sponsored the REWARD Act, HR 1948, which would make permanent and expand a tax credit for small businesses that cover any gap between military and civilian pay for employees called up for active duty.
“No one has done more to secure our nation’s freedom than those who have served our country in the military, and the service men and women returning from deployments deserve our utmost respect, honor, gratitude and assistance,” Congressman Latham said. “I thank all the employers who attended today’s discussion, and I hope they’ll consider a returning veteran for any job openings they may have.”|
