The House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

83rd Legislature

October 8, 2014

10:00 a.m.

E2.014

Pursuant to a notice posted on October 1, 2014, the House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Menéndez, at 10:04 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Menéndez; Sheffield, Ralph; Farias; Miller, Rick; Moody; and Schaefer.

A quorum was present.

(Representative Frank now present.)

(Representative Collier now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded on interim charge 3 to examine the recommendations contained in the report by the Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services (TCCVS), study whether these recommendations have been implemented, and examine new methods to help homeless Veterans using state, regional, and local resources.

(See attached witness list.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded on interim charge 5 to evaluate current resources at higher education institutions, state agencies, and community-based organizations that provide support for military veteran students. Review the current process for assessing and placing these students in appropriate course work so that they are successful. Determine if new funding sources are needed at community colleges to educate or train military veterans who might need Developmental Education or Adult Basic Education (ABE). Recommend strategies for effectively supporting military veteran students in their academic and workforce goals.

(See attached witness list.)

At 2:56 p.m., on the motion of Representative Sheffield, Ralph and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Menéndez, Chair

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Dwight Clark, Clerk