Conn. Jobs Program for Vets Helping Few Find Work

A program to help jobless veterans has found employment for a fraction of eligible workers since its launch two years ago.

The Republican-American reports that the state Department of Labor reported just 18 unemployed veterans were hired before the program expanded to include all honorably discharged veterans. An additional 88 veterans have since found work.

Eligibility was initially limited to combat veterans in Afghanistan and Iraq after 9/11.

The program offers employers wage subsidies of up to $20 per hour for the first six months of an employee's salary, up to a maximum of $12,000.

About 79 employees are receiving subsidies.

The labor department has committed to providing $1 million in wage subsidies to employers of an available $5 million. The State Bond Commission is authorized to issue another $5 million.