SHAHEEN: WE OWE OUR VETERANS ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY, GOOD PAYING JOBS

(Manchester, NH) – Calling attention to the need to further promote economic opportunity for our veterans, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) toured Granite State Manufacturing (GSM) this morning to discuss her legislative efforts that will help create good paying jobs for those who have served our country. Shaheen also highlighted GSM’s leadership when it comes to hiring New Hampshire veterans; almost sixteen percent of Granite State Manufacturing’s employees are veterans which is double the seven percent –required by the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs – for companies that receive federal contracts.

“The best thing we can do for the men and women who have served our country is make sure they have a good paying job when they come home,” Shaheen said. “The work Granite State Manufacturing has done to promote the hiring of local veterans is a great example for the rest of the country. As they know, veterans have the training, skills and work ethic that help them excel in the workplace. Together we must expand opportunities for all our veterans.”

“I was disappointed the Senate failed to advance the comprehensive veterans bill this week but that doesn’t change a thing. I’m going to keep fighting on behalf of our veterans,” Shaheen added.

“Granite State Manufacturing (GSM) has a decades-long commitment to hiring those who have served our country,” said John Allard, Chairman and CEO of GSM, an Allard/Nazarian Group Company.  “We have taken many steps to reach out to returning veterans and have a great working relationship with the New Hampshire Employer Support of Guard and Reserve program.  GSM is proud to be considered a Vet Friendly Employer and we are actively looking to hire more Veterans as our business continues to grow”  

Unemployment for veterans between 18-24 years old stands at nearly eighteen percent – more than double the general population. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Shaheen has made creating opportunity for America’s veterans a top priority. This week, Shaheen introduced an amendment to the Senate comprehensive veterans bill that would have promoted veterans employment. Shaheen’s amendment would have reduced the employer payroll tax contribution for newly hired veterans and waived fees for veterans applying for Small Business Administration Express loans. That plan will soon be introduced as standalone legislation in the Senate. Shaheen is also a cosponsor of the VOW to Hire Heroes Extension Act.