Veterans
News on active duty and veterans impacting public employee union members

Veterans Department bill on the move
March 11, 2008 - OCSEA Vice President Chris Mabe was scheduled this afternoon to deliver testimony before the Senate Finance Committee to express the union's concerns regarding the creation of a new veterans agency. FULL STORY

Governor proposes Veterans Affairs agency
Feb. 18, 2008 - Besides calling for a sweeping economic and job stimulus package in his recent State of the State address, Gov. Strickland also said he would create a stand-alone department for veterans services. FULL STORY

OCSEA urges General Assembly to support veterans
Nov. 19, 2007 - OCSEA recently penned a letter to members of the General Assembly who sit on the Veterans’ Study Council, articulating the union’s support for the creation of a single veteran’s state agency. FULL STORY

AFSCME launches a new matching fund program to give back to our veterans
Nov. 13, 2007 - AFSCME has a unique bond with the brave men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line for our country. More than a third of AFSCME members have served in Iraq or Afghanistan, or have family members who have done so. Likewise, many of our members provide care at veterans’ homes and hospitals across the country. FULL STORY

Union seeks member input on creation of new agency
Fall 2007 - Gov. Ted Strickland, by Executive Order (PDF), has established a study council to provide recommendations regarding the creation of an Ohio Department of Veterans Affairs. FULL STORY

Recent News Briefs

State of Ohio Treasurer Richard Cordray suggests bonus for war veterans; State would distribute $106 million if voters and legislature approve (AP article - Ohio.com, Nov. 7, 2007)

The Veterans Advisory Committee encourages OCSEA chapters, assemblies to "Adopt-A-Platoon"

Apartment complex offers military/veterans appreciation discount (May 2007)

Military creates mental health hotline (May 2007)

New Link - Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Veterans and their families can obtain assistance on matters related to benefits, medical programs, license and certification, employment services, womens' issues, homeless matters, organizations, education, publications, and more.

OCSEA References

Article 30: Military Leave - State of Ohio Contract

OCSEA Constitution & Bylaws