An act relating to creating a preference for military spouses in hiring into State employment

H 531 would require Vermont state agencies to add 5 points to the exam scores of qualified military spouses applying for state jobs through point-based hiring processes. It specifically targets spouses of active-duty U.S. military personnel who meet eligibility criteria, such as receiving disability compensation or being unable to work due to disability. The bill amends Vermont law to include this preference in state employment exams, alongside existing veteran hiring preferences. This policy change directly affects military spouses seeking state government jobs by giving them a competitive advantage in scoring. The provision takes effect July 1, 2026.