What is a Protected Veteran?
Defining a Protected Veteran
In the United States, the term "Protected Veteran" refers to a subset of veterans who are eligible for special protections and preferences in the workforce. Specifically, the Protected Veterans Request for Employment and Equal Information (VARMFT) program, mandated by the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA), requires federal contractors to provide employment opportunities to certain protected veterans.
To understand who is considered a Protected Veteran, we must first look at the legislation that governs their eligibility. The VEVRAA was enacted in 1974 to ensure that Vietnam-era veterans receive preference in employment and apprenticeships. In 2012, the VEVRAA was amended to broaden the scope of covered veterans to include those who have served in the active military, naval, or air service, including combat-wounded veterans.
Categories of Protected Veterans
Not all veterans are entitled to protected veteran status. Protected Veterans must fit into one of the following categories:
- disabled veterans: veterans with service-connected disabilities
- recently separated veterans: veterans who have served within the last three years
- active-duty wartime or campaign badge Veterans: veterans who have been honorably discharged or who continue to serve in active military, naval, or air service during a wartime or campaign period
- Armed Forces Service Medal 1992 veterans: veterans who have received a service medal for duty serving in a foreign war or conflict
Proof of Protected Veteran Status
Employers are required to reasonably accommodate the employment preferences and needs of Protected Veterans. To document and verify protected veteran status, employers can request evidence in the form of a letter or certificate from:
- The Department of Labor
- The Department of Defense
- The Veterans Affairs Department
- The American Legion
- The Department of the Army
- The Department of the Navy
- The Department of the Air Force
Why Is Protected Veteran Status Important?
Protected Veteran status is crucial because it:
- Evidences employment preferences: gives preference to Protected Veterans in the hiring process
- Document entitlement: provides proof of entitlement to veterans’ preference programs
- Requests and accommodations: allows for special requests and accommodations related to employment
Protected Veteran Benefits
As a result of their protected veteran status, eligible veterans can access exclusive benefits, including:
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
Veterans Preference: priority in hiring processes and promotion | 5% hiring preference for all Veterans, 10% preference for disabled Veterans, 10% preference for wounded warriors |
Hiring Authority: exemption from certain federal hiring authorities | 5% exemption for all Veterans, 10% exemption for disabled Veterans |
Reasonable Accommodation: special adjustments and modifications | job-related accommodations, such as reassignment, modified schedules, or adaptive equipment |
Conclusion
In summary, a Protected Veteran is a veteran who falls under one of the six categories defined by the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act. The protected veteran status confers special privileges and accommodations, including veterans’ preference programs, hiring authority exemptions, and reasonable accommodations in employment. Employers seeking to support and hire Protected Veterans should familiarize themselves with the documentation requirements, entitlement benefits, and responsibilities. By understanding and acknowledging protected veteran status, employers can foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment.