U.S. Department of Labor Opens Application Period for HIRE Vets Program

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor announced that as of today, January 31, 2019, the application period is open for job creators to apply for the HIRE Vets Medallion Award. This program recognizes small businesses, non-profit organizations, and large companies for their leadership in recruiting, employing, and retaining America's veterans. To apply for the award, visit HireVets.gov.

"With their proven leadership, determination, and dedication, America's veterans strengthen our nation's workforce," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. "The HIRE Vets Medallion Program recognizes job creators who understand the value a veteran brings to any job or organization, and demonstrate a true commitment to veteran hiring and professional development."

The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act of 2017 (HIRE Vets Act), signed into law by President Donald J. Trump, is the only federal-level veterans' employment award that recognizes a job creators' commitment to hiring America's veterans. The open application period marks the beginning of the 2019 HIRE Vets Medallion Program, which builds on the success of the 2018 Demonstration Program where hundreds of job creators were recognized for their dedicated efforts to hire America's heroes.

Applicants are evaluated based on a range of criteria including veteran hiring and retention rates, and the availability of veteran-specific resources, leadership programs, dedicated human resources, and compensation and tuition assistance programs. To complete the application process, job creators must verify that their company meets the award requirements, pay the application fee, and ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Act (VEVRAA). The deadline to apply is April 30, 2019.

To sign-up to receive updates on the program or get more information, please visit HireVets.gov.