Metro East Sun

Today, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost addressed the full committee at an oversight hearing focused on improving the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) for servicemembers moving to civilian life. The hearing included organizations working with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD).

Bost began by acknowledging servicemembers stationed in the Middle East, reflecting on his recent visit overseas. He praised the strength of the U.S. military and expressed prayers for their safety.

The discussion centered on TAP, which aims to assist servicemembers during their last year of active duty through classes hosted by DoD, Department of Labor (DOL), and VA. "The goal of TAP is to set each servicemember up for success in civilian life regardless of their role in the military," Bost stated.

Reflecting on his own experience with TAP in 1983 as a Marine, Bost noted improvements made since then but acknowledged ongoing challenges. Only fifty-two percent of servicemembers currently meet the one-year TAP timeliness requirement, which he described as a failure rather than a success.

Research from Pennsylvania State University’s Veterans Metric Initiative indicates that over sixty percent of veterans are unemployed or underemployed due to poor transitions. Additionally, nearly twenty percent do not feel fully transitioned until six years after leaving service.

Bost emphasized that effective transition programs are crucial for maintaining public confidence in how servicemembers are treated, which impacts national security. "Clearly there is more work to be done by this Committee and by the community to fill the gaps," he remarked.

Innovators present at the hearing showcased unique programs and technologies aiding thousands in transitioning to veteran status. Bost stressed that without these efforts, veterans risk falling through cracks while VA struggles to integrate them into civilian life.

Under President Trump’s leadership, Bost expressed optimism about centering veterans within VA's mission. He invited feedback from organizations on broader solutions Congress might legislate to enhance TAP, noting some themes align with Subcommittee Chairman Derrick Van Orden’s bill H.R. 3387.

He concluded by welcoming witness testimonies before recognizing Ranking Member Takano for his opening comments.