Rep. McNally Testifies on Bipartisan Veterans Benefits Workplace Posting Bill
COLUMBUS – State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) today provided sponsor testimony in the Ohio House Commerce and Labor Committee on House Bill (HB) 523, legislation regarding the creation and display of a poster containing information on benefits and services for veterans.
“We agree with the veteran organizations when they say that the best thing anyone can do is share information about support services available to veterans. That is why we’ve introduced HB 523,” said Rep. McNally. “It is just one step toward ensuring transparency for our veterans while providing them with tools and services that assist with the adjustment back to civilian life.”
The bipartisan legislation was introduced by Reps. Adam Holmes (R-Nashport) and McNally following concerns for needed outreach and additional avenues to reach veterans and share information on benefits and services available to them. HB 523 requires the Director of Commerce, in consultation with the Director of Veterans Services, to create a veterans' benefits and services poster and provide an employer with a copy of the poster free of charge at the request of the employer. Employers are not required but may choose to display the poster in a manner that is easily accessible for employees.
“Ohio currently has no requirement that this information be curated or displayed. While HB 523 will not require employers to display the poster, it will create a standardized workplace posting that includes basic information about veterans’ benefits and a way for veterans to learn more about the programs should an employer who is supportive of our veterans wish to display the poster and demonstrate that support,” said Rep. McNally. “Once standardized, our state will be even better equipped to educate and produce materials in other formats for other venues…The sacrifices our veterans have made for our country is something we may not be able to repay, but this legislation can assist them along the way.”
The supportive resources listed on the poster include:
- Programs provided by the Department of veteran’s services
- Veterans Administration (VA) Crisis Line
- Veteran-focused assistance with substance abuse and mental health treatment programs
- Education, workforce, and training resources
- Tax benefits and exemptions
- Legal services available
- HB 523 requires several readings in the Commerce and Labor Committee before a vote to all members of the Ohio House of Representatives.
EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. McNally giving sponsor testimony is attached to this release.