Bill gives military firefighters credit for training

LANSING — Veterans will get credit for the firefighting training and experience they earned during military service through legislation introduced by state Rep. Ray Franz that was signed into law by Gov. Rick Snyder today.

Public Act 166 of 2013 was part of a five-bill package that makes certain military service jobs eligible to fulfill Michigan’s occupational licensing requirements for firefighter, law enforcement, stationary steam engineers and boiler operators, mechanical contractors and residential builders.

“We need to work to make sure Michigan veterans have every opportunity to make a quick and efficient return to civilian life and stability after their tour is up,” said Franz, R-Onekama and vice chair of the House Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. “These laws are a great step toward ensuring that the brave men and women who have served in our military can use their experience to remove barriers for future employment.”

The measures – PAs 165-169 of 2013 – are the latest in a series of legislative efforts to remove obstacles for employability and show gratitude to those who served in uniform