VFW urges Congress to pass TAP Promotion Act for veteran transition support

The U.S. House Committee on Veterans' Affairs held an oversight hearing on March 14, 2025, focusing on the critical issue of military-to-civilian transition for service members. Nearly 200,000 service members leave the military each year, with 80% separating before retirement. This ongoing cycle highlights the necessity for effective transition programs to support veterans as they reintegrate into civilian life.

The Department of Defense (DoD) currently provides only five days of preparation for service members transitioning to civilian life, despite spending up to six months training new recruits. This lack of adequate preparation can lead to increased risks of underemployment, financial hardship, and mental health issues, particularly within the first year after separation. Federal law mandates that eligible service members begin transition support no later than one year before their separation, yet many face barriers to accessing these services.

During the hearing, it was revealed that commanding officers often waive attendance at the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) due to mission requirements or personal choice. The Government Accountability Office reported that 53% of TAP waivers were approved, with 22% of at-risk service members skipping the mandatory two-day track entirely. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) emphasized the need for more time for TAP participation, tailored courses for different separation types, and better integration of spouses into the transition process.

The VFW's transition survey indicated that veterans' primary concerns after separation include finding employment, navigating service-connected disabilities, maintaining financial stability, and preserving their sense of purpose. The survey also highlighted issues with TAP, including inadequate time for a smooth transition and overwhelming information that service members struggle to process.

To improve the transition experience, the VFW urged Congress to pass the TAP Promotion Act, which would ensure that all future veterans receive essential assistance in claiming their earned benefits. They also recommended establishing a new position within the DoD, an Undersecretary of Defense for Transition, to oversee and modernize transition programs. This role would provide a single point of accountability and help drive necessary cultural changes within the DoD.

The hearing underscored the importance of addressing these transition challenges, not only for the well-being of veterans but also for the future of military recruitment. Poor transition experiences can affect how veterans communicate the value of military service to their families and communities, potentially deterring young people from enlisting. The discussions at the hearing highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to support service members as they navigate their transition to civilian life.