Van Orden, Derrick [R-WI-3]
Republican · WI · 24 bills sponsored
Warriors to Workforce Act
# Warriors to Workforce Act Summary **What It Would Do** The Warriors to Workforce Act aims to help military veterans transition into civilian jobs by improving education and training programs. The bill focuses on making it easier for veterans to find employment after leaving the military, likely through enhanced job training, skills development, or better coordination between military service and civilian workforce opportunities. **Who It Affects** This bill primarily affects military veterans looking to enter or re-enter the civilian job market. It may also impact employers who hire veterans, educational institutions offering veteran training programs, and the Department of Veterans Affairs or Department of Labor agencies that administer these programs. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (HR 982) is in committee review, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. This is an early stage in the legislative process, and the bill would need to pass committee review, a House vote, Senate approval, and presidential signature to become law.
To direct the Secretary of Transportation to issue certain regulations to update the definition of motorcycle, and for other purposes.
# Summary of HR 3385 **What the Bill Would Do** HR 3385 would require the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to update the federal definition of what qualifies as a motorcycle. Currently, the bill text details are limited in public records, but the legislation aims to modernize how motorcycles are classified under transportation regulations. This could affect vehicle safety standards, licensing requirements, taxes, and other rules that depend on how a vehicle is officially categorized. **Who It Affects** This bill would impact motorcycle manufacturers, motorcycle owners and riders, and potentially people who ride newer or alternative motorcycle designs. It could also affect insurance companies and state transportation agencies that use federal definitions to set their own rules. **Current Status** HR 3385 was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. The specific provisions of the bill have not been detailed in available public summaries.
Veterans Readiness and Employment Improvement Act of 2025
# Veterans Readiness and Employment Improvement Act of 2025 - Summary **What the bill does:** This bill changes how veterans receive educational and career counseling at colleges and universities. Currently, the VA requires that counselors providing these services on campus must be VA employees. The bill would allow the VA to use other qualified counselors—potentially from the school itself or private contractors—instead of requiring VA staff to be on-site. **Who it affects:** The primary beneficiaries would be veterans using education benefits at colleges and universities, who might gain more convenient access to counseling services. It also affects the VA's staffing requirements and could impact higher education institutions offering veteran support services. **Key provision:** The main change removes the mandate that only VA-employed counselors can provide vocational and educational guidance on college campuses, giving the VA more flexibility in how it delivers these services. **Current status:** The bill has passed the House of Representatives and awaits action in the Senate. No further action has been taken at this time.
AG VETS Act
# AG VETS Act Summary **What the bill does:** The AG VETS Act would direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture to distribute competitive grants to organizations that help veterans start or improve farming and ranching operations. These grants would fund education and training programs specifically designed for veterans interested in agricultural careers. **Who it affects:** The bill would benefit military veterans looking to transition into farming or ranching, as well as the organizations that provide agricultural training—including university extension services, agricultural colleges, state agriculture departments, and nonprofit groups. Taxpayers would fund the program through USDA allocations. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Derrick Van Orden, a Republican from Wisconsin.
To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to rehabilitation programs for veterans with service-connected disabilities, and for other purposes.amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to rehabilitation programs for veterans with service-connected disabilities, to establish a new bar to certain benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
# HR 6904 Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would modify federal veterans' benefits laws to improve rehabilitation programs for veterans with service-connected disabilities (injuries or illnesses caused by military service). The bill also would establish new eligibility restrictions that could bar certain individuals from receiving Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, though the specific restrictions aren't detailed in the available information. **Who It Affects:** The legislation primarily affects veterans with service-connected disabilities who participate in VA rehabilitation programs. The new eligibility restrictions would impact some individuals seeking VA benefits, though the exact groups affected depend on the specific provisions within the bill. **Current Status:** HR 6904 was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin) in the 119th Congress and is currently under committee review. It has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. More detailed information about the specific improvements to rehabilitation programs and the new eligibility restrictions would be available once the bill text is officially published.
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2025
# Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Does** This law requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to reject educational programs at schools that charge out-of-state tuition rates to veterans using Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve benefits, even when those veterans actually live in the state where the school is located. In other words, if a veteran is physically present and living in a state, schools can no longer charge them the higher out-of-state rate while they're using these specific military education benefits. **Who It Affects** The law directly benefits members of the military reserves who use Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve education benefits to pay for college or training programs. It also affects colleges and universities that previously could charge out-of-state tuition under these circumstances. The goal is to save these veterans money by ensuring they pay in-state tuition rates when attending schools in their home state. **Current Status** This bill was signed into law in 2025, so it is now in effect. It addresses a fairness concern where reserve members using these education benefits were being charged higher tuition rates despite living in-state, and requires schools to offer in-state pricing or risk losing VA approval for their programs.
To require the Secretary of Agriculture to release a reversionary interest in certain land in the Black River State Forest in Millston, Wisconsin, and for other purposes.
# Summary of HR 5866 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to give up a legal claim it holds on certain land in the Black River State Forest near Millston, Wisconsin. When land is transferred with a "reversionary interest," it means the federal government retains the right to take the land back under certain conditions. This bill would eliminate that federal claim, allowing full ownership to transfer to the state or another party without the possibility of federal reclamation. **Who It Affects and Key Details** The bill primarily affects Wisconsin and whoever currently owns or manages the affected land in Black River State Forest. The specific acreage and current ownership details are not provided in the bill summary. This is a fairly narrow, localized measure that deals with a property rights issue rather than broader policy changes. **Current Status** HR 5866 was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. The bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process.
Donald J. Trump Congressional Gold Medal Act
# Donald J. Trump Congressional Gold Medal Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would award a Congressional Gold Medal to former President Donald J. Trump. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors Congress can bestow, typically awarded to individuals for outstanding achievements and contributions to American society or history. **Who It Affects and Key Details:** The bill would directly honor Trump with this prestigious medal. Congressional Gold Medals have historically been awarded to notable figures from various fields including military leaders, athletes, civil rights activists, and other prominent Americans. If passed, Trump would join a select group of recipients of this honor. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI). The bill would need to pass both the House and Senate and be signed by the President to become law.
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving compensation for any period during which a Government shutdown is in effect.
# Summary of HJRES 129 **What the Bill Would Do** This proposed constitutional amendment would prevent members of Congress from being paid during government shutdowns. A shutdown would be defined as any period when federal agencies lack funding due to Congress failing to pass regular budget bills or temporary spending measures. If passed, Congress would need to approve this amendment (requiring two-thirds majorities in both chambers) and then it would need ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures before becoming law. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The amendment would directly impact all members of Congress—both senators and representatives. The goal, according to supporters, is to incentivize lawmakers to reach budget agreements quickly rather than allowing shutdowns to continue, since their own paychecks would be on the line. The amendment specifically ties loss of pay to any lapse in appropriations for federal agencies or departments. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) in the 119th Congress and remains in committee. Since constitutional amendments face a very high bar for passage, this proposal would need significant support in both chambers and then approval from most states before it could take effect—a lengthy process that rarely succeeds for proposed amendments.
To prohibit Federal funding for entities that employ individuals who condone and celebrate political violence and domestic terrorism, and for other purposes.
# Bill Summary: HR 5352 **What the Bill Would Do** HR 5352 would prohibit federal funding (grants, contracts, and other support) from going to organizations that employ people who publicly condone or celebrate political violence and domestic terrorism. The bill aims to prevent taxpayer money from supporting entities with staff members who openly endorse violent extremism. **Who It Affects** This legislation would impact federal agencies, grant programs, and contractors who receive federal funding. Organizations across various sectors—nonprofits, educational institutions, research centers, and private contractors—could potentially be affected if they employ individuals deemed to support political violence or domestic terrorism. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full House. As introduced, the bill lacks detailed specifications on how "condone and celebrate" would be defined or enforced, which would likely be key points of discussion if the bill moves forward. The bill was sponsored by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI).
VA Home Loan Program Reform Act
# VA Home Loan Program Reform Act (HR 1815) - Summary **What the Bill Does** This law gives the Department of Veterans Affairs new tools to help veterans avoid losing their homes to foreclosure. The VA can now pay lenders money to prevent foreclosure and can purchase portions of defaulted loans to help veterans catch up on payments. The bill requires the VA to try specific loss prevention strategies before allowing loan modifications, and creates a five-year program where the VA can make "partial claims"—essentially buying part of a veteran's debt to help them stay in their home. **Who It Affects** The law primarily helps veterans who have VA-backed home loans and are struggling with payments. It also affects mortgage lenders and the VA, which gains authority and responsibility to intervene in default situations. The program applies only to primary residences, not investment properties. **Key Provisions** The VA must follow a specific sequence of loss mitigation options before taking other administrative actions, ensuring borrowers get help through structured steps. The partial claim program lasts five years, allowing the VA to purchase portions of troubled loans. When the VA intervenes to prevent foreclosure, it gains a legal claim on the property as security. **Status:** This bill has been signed into law and is now active.
Agriculture Workforce Reform Act of 2025
# Agriculture Workforce Reform Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Agriculture Workforce Reform Act of 2025 (HR 4748) addresses labor challenges in the agricultural sector. While the specific details are not publicly available in the provided information, bills with this title typically propose changes to how farms and agricultural businesses hire and manage workers. This could include modifications to visa programs for seasonal workers, changes to labor regulations, or new workforce development initiatives. **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily impact farmers and agricultural businesses that rely on workers for planting, harvesting, and other farm operations. It could also affect the workers themselves—both domestic agricultural workers and potentially foreign workers hired through visa programs—as well as rural communities dependent on agriculture. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin). For specific details about the bill's provisions, you would need to consult the full text on Congress.gov or agricultural industry news sources.
VR&E Accountability Act
# VR&E Accountability Act Summary The VR&E Accountability Act (HR 4271) is a bill proposed in Congress that would apply to the Department of Veterans Affairs' Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program. This program helps eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment. While specific details about the bill's provisions aren't publicly available in this summary, the title suggests it would establish new accountability measures or oversight requirements for how the VR&E program operates. The bill would primarily affect veterans who use or are eligible for VR&E services, as well as the VA staff who administer the program. Depending on its final provisions, it could change reporting requirements, performance standards, or oversight procedures to improve program transparency or effectiveness. The bill was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin) and is currently under review in a House committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Congress.
Refinancing Relief for Veterans Act
# Refinancing Relief for Veterans Act (HR 3384) - Summary This bill would allow veterans to refinance their VA-backed home loans at better interest rates without paying certain fees that are normally required. VA loans are mortgages backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs that help veterans purchase homes with favorable terms. The bill specifically aims to reduce the costs associated with refinancing, making it cheaper for veterans to take advantage of lower interest rates when they become available. This could save eligible veterans significant money over the life of their loan. The bill primarily affects veterans who currently have VA-backed mortgages and are considering refinancing. Key provisions include waiving or reducing fees (such as the VA funding fee) that borrowers typically pay when refinancing. By lowering these costs, the bill intends to make refinancing more accessible to veterans, particularly those with lower incomes who might otherwise be unable to afford the upfront expenses of a refinance. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. No further action has been taken on the measure at this time.
Streamlining the Solid Start Communications Act
# Streamlining the Solid Start Communications Act Summary **What the Bill Does** The Streamlining the Solid Start Communications Act would improve how the Department of Veterans Affairs communicates with veterans during a critical transition period. Specifically, it focuses on the VA's "Solid Start" program, which provides outreach and support to veterans during their first year after leaving military service. The bill aims to streamline and enhance the communications processes the VA uses to contact and inform newly separated veterans about available benefits, healthcare options, and other support services. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** This legislation primarily affects newly separated veterans and the VA's outreach efforts. By improving communications during the crucial early transition period, the bill seeks to ensure veterans are better informed about their earned benefits, including medical care and compensation programs. The bill addresses the government's information systems and archives related to veteran communications, though the specific details of what changes would be made are within the committee review process. **Current Status** As of now, HR 3386 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI).
To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide timely equitable relief to an individual who suffers a loss based on an administrative error by the Secretary, and for other purposes.
# HR 984 Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would require the Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary to provide compensation to veterans who suffer financial losses due to mistakes made by the VA itself. If passed, it would establish a process for veterans to receive "equitable relief"—essentially correcting or making up for errors in benefits, pensions, or other VA decisions. The bill aims to address situations where VA administrative errors cause veterans to lose money or benefits they were entitled to. **Who It Affects:** This legislation directly affects veterans and their families who have been harmed by VA administrative mistakes. It could also impact the VA's operations and debt collection practices, as the bill specifically addresses how the agency handles errors and compensates those affected. **Current Status:** HR 984 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin).
ETS Act
# ETS Act (HR 3387) Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The ETS Act addresses employment and training services, likely focusing on how federal programs coordinate with veterans' services, military personnel support, and related employment initiatives. Based on its subject matter, the bill appears to involve government oversight and auditing of employment training programs, potentially including provisions related to federal contracting and procurement processes. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily impacts veterans, military personnel and their families, and federal employees involved in employment training administration. It may also affect federal contractors and agencies overseeing government spending on these programs. **Current Status:** HR 3387 is currently in committee, meaning it has been referred to the relevant House committee for review but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. The bill was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) in the 119th Congress. *Note: The full legislative text would provide specific details about provisions, funding amounts, and implementation requirements. For complete information, consult Congress.gov.*
Certified Nursing Assistant Workforce Improvement Act
# Certified Nursing Assistant Workforce Improvement Act (HR 3471) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill aims to address challenges in the certified nursing assistant (CNA) workforce. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically focus on improving recruitment, training, retention, and working conditions for CNAs—the healthcare workers who provide direct patient care under nurse supervision in hospitals, nursing homes, and other settings. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily impact CNAs themselves, healthcare facilities that employ them, and ultimately patients who receive their care. It could also affect nursing schools and training programs that prepare people for CNA certification. **Current Status:** HR 3471 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced by Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) but has not yet advanced to a full House vote. The bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process. Without the specific text available, the exact provisions—such as wage improvements, training standards, or loan forgiveness programs—cannot be confirmed, but addressing healthcare workforce shortages is a bipartisan concern in Congress.
VETT Act
# VETT Act Summary **What It Does:** The Veterans Education Transparency and Training Act (HR 981) modifies how educational institutions must inform veterans about their programs when they're using VA educational benefits. Currently, schools must provide veterans with a detailed form before enrollment that includes information like costs, financial aid, graduation rates, and job placement rates. If a school can't provide complete information upfront, this bill allows them to give notice about what might be missing or incomplete, along with their best estimate. Additionally, the bill requires the VA to create and maintain a central website where veterans can easily access information about training programs. **Who It Affects:** Veterans using VA educational benefits and the educational institutions (colleges, trade schools, online programs, etc.) that enroll them. **Current Status:** The bill has passed the House and is moving through the legislative process. It still needs Senate approval and the President's signature to become law.
TAP Promotion Act
# TAP Promotion Act Summary **What the bill would do:** The TAP Promotion Act would require the military's Transition Assistance Program (TAP)—which helps service members prepare to leave the military—to include a presentation specifically about veterans' benefits available through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Currently, TAP provides general counseling on job training and employment, but this bill would add a dedicated focus on VA benefits like healthcare, disability compensation, and education assistance. **Who it affects and key provisions:** This bill would primarily affect service members separating from the military, ensuring they receive information about VA benefits before leaving active duty. The VA would also be required to file annual reports detailing which veterans' organizations participate in the presentation, how many service members attend, and any recommendations for improving the program. The goal is to help transitioning military personnel better understand what support they're eligible for after service. **Current status:** HR 1845 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill was introduced by Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI).
To amend the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 to reauthorize the dairy business innovation initiatives.
# HR 985: Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives Summary **What the bill does:** HR 985 would increase federal funding for the Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives, a program that helps dairy farmers and businesses develop, produce, and market dairy products. The bill would also require the program to maintain at least four regional centers instead of the current minimum of three. These centers provide technical assistance and financial support to dairy businesses, including those producing specialty products like sheep and goat milk cheeses. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily affects dairy farmers and small dairy businesses across the country, particularly those interested in producing specialty or niche dairy products. It also impacts agricultural organizations that receive grants and technical assistance through the program. Consumers could indirectly benefit from increased innovation in dairy product options. **Current status:** HR 985 was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill has not advanced beyond the initial committee review stage.
Restoring the VA Home Loan Program in Perpetuity Act of 2025
# Restoring the VA Home Loan Program in Perpetuity Act of 2025 – Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill would make the Veterans Affairs (VA) home loan program permanent rather than requiring periodic congressional reauthorization. Currently, the VA home loan program—which helps veterans purchase homes by guaranteeing loans from private lenders—operates under temporary authority that must be regularly renewed. The bill aims to eliminate this requirement and establish the program as a permanent benefit for eligible veterans. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects current and future military veterans seeking to buy homes. It also impacts the VA, private lenders who participate in the program, and potentially Congress's workload regarding veterans' benefits oversight. The VA home loan program is one of the federal government's largest lending programs, so changes could have broad implications for the housing market and veteran access to homeownership. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (HR 1814) is in committee and has not been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) in the 119th Congress. The bill would need to pass committee review, House approval, and Senate approval before becoming law.
To amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to set maximum monthly allowances for milk under the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children.
# HR 1813 Summary **What the Bill Does** HR 1813 would increase the maximum amount of milk that can be provided monthly to participants in the WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program, a federal nutrition assistance program for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children. Specifically, the bill would raise milk allowances from the current 12-16 quarts per month to 16-24 quarts per month, depending on which participant group is involved. **Who It Affects** The bill directly impacts low-income families enrolled in WIC, including pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, postpartum women, infants, and children up to age five. These participants rely on WIC benefits to purchase nutritious foods to meet their health needs. **Current Status** HR 1813 was introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full House vote. The bill has not become law.
Strengthening our Servicemembers with Milk Act
# Strengthening our Servicemembers with Milk Act Summary **What the bill would do:** This legislation would require the Department of Defense to stock various types of milk—including unflavored, organic, and powdered varieties—in dining facilities across military bases. It would also prohibit the military from buying milk from companies owned or controlled by foreign adversaries (though the bill doesn't specify which countries qualify as adversaries). Essentially, it aims to expand milk options available to service members while ensuring those products come from approved sources. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily impacts active-duty military personnel and others who eat at military dining facilities. It could also affect dairy suppliers and companies that do business with the Department of Defense. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin).