Rooney Bill Helps Veterans Seeking Civil Service Employment

TRENTON, NJ – Assemblyman Kevin J. Rooney has introduced legislation making it easier for veterans to access civil service employment. The bill (A5081) expands veterans’ preference for civil service candidates.

“Most members of our military serve honorably. They have demonstrated their commitment, many paying the ultimate sacrifice,” said Rooney (R-Bergen). “Yet currently, some veterans cannot qualify for preference because they were discharged after the employment list was issued. We need to collectively show our appreciation and support by making it easier for them to transition from military to civilian life.”

Veterans receive preference over non-veterans in the civil service hiring process, but have only up to eight days before the civil service employment list is issued to provide proof of their service. If a vet passes the civil service test, but does not have proof of veterans’ status until after the employment list is issued, their service is not recognized and they have to wait until the next list is issued. Depending on which exam is taken, the list is usually issued every three years.

Rooney’s bill allows the veterans’ preference to be retroactively applied for the duration of the list if a vet has taken the test and passed.