Measure Would Expand Veterans Preference

Language in the House-passed 2006 Defense Department authorization measure (HR-2528) would expand veterans preference rights for hiring into federal jobs for many members of the active duty military as well as National Guard and Reserve members who have been mobilized for active duty. The language would give hiring preference to any honorably discharged veteran who served more than 180 consecutive days on active duty, any part of which occurred after September 11, 2001. The bill would repeal a provision requiring 30 consecutive days in a combat theater.