ATLANTA (AP) -- February 4, 2012

Three military veterans who now serve in the Georgia Senate are proposing legislation aimed at helping soldiers make the transition back into civilian life after returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sens. Ed Harbison, Lester Jackson and Emanuel Jones say their bills seek to give veterans better access to jobs and education, and show them that they are a priority in Georgia. For the three Democratic lawmakers, the proposals are a continuation of their service and duty to their fellow soldiers. They expect the legislation will find bipartisan support.

President Barack Obama has also focused on helping veterans find work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate was 13.1 percent for Iraq and Afghan vets in December, compared to 8.1 percent for non-veteran Americans.