; Whereas VetFran, a program composed of over 650 franchise brands, was formed to offer financial discounts, mentorship, and training for aspiring veteran franchisees and veterans seeking employment; Whereas VetFran has created employment for over 238,000 veterans and military spouses and has helped 6,500 veterans become business owners since 2011; Whereas franchises are often the first place young workers learn the skills they need to succeed in the future as they climb the ladder of success; Whereas franchise businesses are expanding apprenticeship programs to address an emerging shortage of skilled workers in underserved communities, thus creating even more middle-class jobs by drawing back Americans who had previously left the workforce; Whereas a diverse and inclusive workforce is necessary to drive innovation, foster creativity, and guide business strategies; Whereas the bipartisan Congressional Franchise Caucus boasts 32 members who promote the positive impacts of franchising to the economy of the United States; Whereas through programs and meetings in their districts, the members of the Congressional Franchise Caucus provide a forum for their constituents who are interested in buying a franchise, working at a franchise, or expanding and transforming their existing small business using the franchise business model to learn about and pursue those opportunities; Whereas the International Franchise Association is the world’s largest and oldest organization representing franchising worldwide; Whereas the International Franchise Association is hosting the Franchise Action Network Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, on September 13, 2017; Whereas the Franchise Action Network Annual Meeting provides an opportunity for the members of the Nation’s franchising community to meet with their representatives in Congress and foster a dialogue on public policy priorities important to franchised small businesses across the country