Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao announced that more than 1,600 veterans in 17 communities in 15 states will be placed in new jobs thanks to $3.78 million in Department of Labor (DOL) grants awarded today. In addition, DOL expects another 600 veterans to receive employment and training services as a result of these grants, which are awarded under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA).

"The Workforce Investment Act has expanded the eligibility criteria for veterans who might not be covered by other programs," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This again demonstrates President Bush's commitment and resolve to help America's veterans who have so honorably served our nation."

"We can now offer services to any honorably discharged veteran that served on active duty during a war or received a campaign or expedition badge, in addition to those with service-connected disabilities or who have recently separated or faced other significant barriers to employment." said Frederico Juarbe Jr., DOL assistant secretary for veterans' employment and training.