House Lawmakers Push Bill to Aid Small Businesses Owned by Veterans

States that receive certain federal funds for infrastructure projects would be required to set aside a portion of that for veteran-owned businesses under legislation offered by a group of House lawmakers in recent weeks.

The sponsors of the Fairness to Veterans for Infrastructure Investment Act — Reps. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Don Young (R-Alaska) and Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.) — said their bill would ensure that small businesses owned by veterans have the same access to funds states are required to set aside for small businesses under a 2012 surface transportation law.

“Our veterans are the most highly skilled workforce in America’s history — the product of rigorous training, an iron-clad commitment to teamwork and the remarkable ability to succeed where others might fail. We need Fairness to Veterans so we are leveraging the unique strengths of veteran entrepreneurs to address the challenges at home,” Fitzpatrick said in a statement.

“It’s important to ensure they have every opportunity to succeed,” Young added.

The measure, which has been referred to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, is backed by the American Legion.