Am I a Protected Veteran? Understanding the protections and benefits under VEVRAA
The post-9/11 economic downturn had a devastating impact on American veterans. After years of military service, many returned home to a tough job market and little support to help them get back on their feet. In response to this need, Congress passed theJobs for Veterans Act of 2002, which enhanced the original Vietnam-Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (VRATA) to protect veterans who suffered from high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and homelessness. The act aimed to improve veterans’ job readiness and enhance their ability to transition into civilian life by providing greater employment opportunities, training, and assistance programs.
The most recent enhancements came through the Honoring America’s Veterans and Cave Hart Reauthorization Act, which significantly broadened the definition of "disabled" veterans to include those wounded or ill in service beyond those solely injured or taken prisoner in action.
<Are you a Protected Veteran?>
Am I a Protected Veteran under VEVRAA’s guidelines?
As outlined under VEVRAA guidelines, to qualify as a protected veteran, your military status or discharge plays a significant role: