helping vets

I am working with my Democratic colleague Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia to restore federal employment and job training services for America's veterans. This week we introduced the bipartisan Protect Veterans Employment & Training Services Act-or Protect VETS Act- to ensure that veterans continue to have access to specialized job assistance coaches. These coaches work with businesses to develop job opportunities for veterans, and they also help veterans find work-especially disabled veterans with different employment needs.

I cannot understand why these resources have been reduced when veterans face an unemployment rate higher than the national average. Our veterans put their life on the line for our country. The least we can do is ensure they are not denied the job services they deserve.

You can read more about our efforts in the Pittsburgh Tribune Review.

Pennsylvania has a long history of honoring its veterans. In fact, many consider Boalsburg to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. In this spirit, I strive to do all I can to help the men and women who fought to defend this country.

Earlier this year, the American people learned about outrageous examples of mismanagement at the VA that include excessive wait times for needed care; substandard care; dishonest reporting on care; and cutting corners that may have cost veterans' lives.

I have long advocated for vets to be able to obtain care from a private-sector health care provider. I have said repeatedly that the VA secretary should be able to fire employees whose job performance is unsatisfactory.

I will remain vigilant in my efforts to honor our veterans. Read more about my efforts in the Allentown Morning Call.

Mary Hawryshkiw stopped by my office on Thursday morning. Mary visited on behalf of Razom for Ukraine, a non-profit organization dedicated to the pursuit of a free and prosperous Ukraine. She shared her personal story with me just before I joined my colleagues in listening to His Excellency Petro Poroshenko, President of Ukraine, at a joint session of Congress.

I've got a sweet tooth. Luckily, Pennsylvania is home to several of the finest candy and snack makers in the world.

On Thursday, I sat down with members of the National Confectioners Association to talk about ways we can work together to help these businesses grow all across our great state and hire more workers.

The entrance to my Washington D.C. office also includes an assortment of Pennsylvania-made treats.  Next time you visit our nation's capital, please stop by for one!

On Wednesday morning, representatives from chambers of commerce in Harrisburg, York, and Reading joined me to talk about what is working for businesses, and also about what is holding them back. Together we can work to create an environment in Pennsylvania that encourages job growth and prosperity in the business community.