WASHINGTON — First lady Michelle Obama will challenge governors to make it easier for military members to transfer their skills to civilian jobs.
The first lady wants states to pass legislation or take executive action allowing veterans to receive professional credentials or licenses based on their experiences in the military. Administration officials said that would allow veterans to apply for jobs more quickly rather than having to take courses for skills they already have.
Obama will announce her proposals Monday during remarks to governors who are in Washington for their annual meeting. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden will also address the governors during the event at the White House.
The veterans’ initiatives are part of the first lady's “Joining Forces” program, which aims to help veterans and their families.
The program has focused in particular on assisting military personnel find civilian jobs, an effort that is expected to take on more urgency as more than 60,000 U.S. troops return home from Afghanistan by the end of 2014.