Veteran job preference updates approved

Senators gave final approval Feb. 13 to a bill that updates laws pertaining to preferences for veterans seeking employment.

LB588, introduced by Syracuse Sen. Dan Watermeier, requires that 5 percent be added to all parts of an examination or numerical scoring if a veteran receives a passing score and makes a claim for preference on the application.

If no examination or numerical scoring is used, preference will be given to a qualifying veteran if two or more equally qualified candidates are being considered for a position.

Notices of all positions of employment available for veteran preference are required to state that the position is subject to the preference. A veteran desiring to use the preference will be required to provide the hiring authority with a copy of his or her Defense Department Form 214.

The bill also allows the spouse of a veteran who has a 100 percent permanent disability to claim the preference.

LB588 passed on a 44-0 vote and takes effect Jan. 1, 2015.