MA Senator supports hiring of military veterans

2/16/2011

Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown is encouraging small businesses in the state to hire military veterans when applicable through new legislation, the Boston Globe reports.

"Our veterans sacrifice so much for us and ask for little in return. This bipartisan legislation will help put our heroes back to work, and I am proud to be introducing it along with my colleagues," Brown told the source.

Brown says that ex-combatants need support both on and off the field of battle. As many as 20 percent of Guard members are currently unemployed and the stress driven by the turbulent economic conditions is one of the primary reasons of suicide.

The bill would give tax credits to companies that provide military veterans with jobs at their workplace. Democrat Kay Hagan of North Carolina is also supporting the legislation, while Representative Lynn Jenkins is backing a House companion bill.

Veterans looking for employment may also want to consider investing in a franchise, as many offer significant discounts for military personnel. Getting the appropriate funding should be easier now than it has in the past thanks to the easing of small business lending practices.