U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (R-IL) and Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) applauded action by the U.S. House of Representatives on Feb. 2 to approve two bills that would reform, expand, and modernize certain U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) GI Bill education and workforce programs.
“We must continue to modernize the GI Bill to meet veterans’ needs so that today and tomorrow’s veterans can get high-paying jobs in in-demand fields across the country,” said Rep. Bost, chairman of the U.S. House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “House Republicans will continue to advance policies that make a real difference in veterans’ day-to-day lives by boosting the programs veterans, active-duty service members, National Guardsmen, Reservists, and their families use to get the education and job training they want … without a bunch of bureaucracy standing in the way.”
The House passed the Modernizing the Veterans On-Campus Experience Act of 2025, H.R. 980, which would remove the requirement that educational and vocational counseling services provided by the VA on campus at institutions of higher learning must be provided by VA counselors. U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) sponsored the bill.
The House also approved the Veterans Education and Technical Skills Opportunity Act of 2025, or the VETS Opportunity Act of 2025, H.R. 1458, to address the administration of and eligibility for certain VA educational assistance benefits and programs. Rep. Ciscomani sponsored the bill in February 2025 alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Don Davis (D-NC).
Prior to House passage, both measures received approval Feb. 2 from Rep. Bost’s committee and now are under consideration by the U.S. Senate Veterans Affairs’ Committee.
Rep. Ciscomani pointed out that the VETS Opportunity Act would modernize the GI Bill and expand access to high-quality certificates and technical training programs, possibly offered in a hybrid format, that lead directly to good-paying jobs in high-demand fields.
“Not every veteran wants or needs a traditional four-year degree,” he said. “Many want fast, skills-based training that connects them to careers in the trades, health care, technology, and other critical fields.
“This bill recognizes reality and gives veterans the flexibility to choose the path that works best for them and their families,” added Rep. Ciscomani. “This legislation empowers our nation’s veterans, strengthens our workforce, and honors the promise this country made to those who served. By strengthening education benefits, we empower veterans, build a stronger workforce, and drive a stronger economy.”