Monday, July 16, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Signs Legislation Supporting Our Military Men and Women
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt signed legislation that supports the men and women of our Armed Forces as they use the skills they learned and used while serving our country to pursue employment here at home. Language in Senate Bill 82, making it easier for veterans to obtain commercial driver's licenses, was advocated for by the Helmets to Hardhats program.
"Helmets to Hardhats is a great program that ensures our brave men and women returning from overseas are able to pick up with their lives, provide for their families and perhaps even pursue a new career," Gov. Blunt said. "This legislation supports our American men and women serving in our Armed Forces by helping with their transition from military service."
Blunt is a strong supporter of Helmets to Hardhats in Missouri. In 2005, Blunt signed a proclamation committing to spreading the word on the initiative and fully supporting its goals in Missouri.
"Gov. Blunt has provided Missouri National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen another avenue to use military-acquired skills to benefit our civilian sector employers," said Maj. Gen. King Sidwell, adjutant general for the Missouri National Guard. "This bill validates the strong job skills training provided at all levels of the military."
Senate Bill 82, sponsored by Sen. John Griesheimer, among other provisions, includes language that authorizes the Missouri Department of Revenue to waive the driving skills test for any qualified military applicant for a commercial driver's license. The legislation requires the applicant to certify that during the two-year period immediately preceding application for a commercial driver's license, the applicant has not had any license suspended, revoked or canceled, and applicants are required to continue to complete the written tests.
"I am very pleased that Governor Blunt signed Senate Bill 82," said Sen. John Griesheimer. "This is a good bill that helps consumers and taxpayers and I am also very proud to pass legislation that will help our veterans and military members here at home."