SLC Times

Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Joe Manchin (I-WV), joined by Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Steve Daines (R-MT), J.D. Vance (R-OH), and Jim Risch (R-ID), have introduced the Guarding Readiness Resources Act. This legislation aims to provide an exemption from the Miscellaneous Receipts Act for State Active Duty (SAD) reimbursement payments intended for the National Guard Bureau, thereby allowing these funds to be redirected back to the National Guard units that incurred the expenses.

"The National Guard is a cornerstone of our national defense and emergency response system, responding to everything from natural disasters to national security threats," said Senator Lee. "Unfortunately, the current process for reimbursing Guard units creates unnecessary financial hurdles that undermine their readiness. Our bill ensures that the funds used by states to reimburse the National Guard go directly to maintaining and preparing our equipment for future missions."

Senator Manchin expressed his support: "We are all incredibly grateful to the brave members of our National Guard who protect West Virginians and all Americans from any threat that comes our way. I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Guarding Readiness Resources Act to ensure National Guard units can receive the federal reimbursements they need to continue serving our country safely and effectively. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join this commonsense legislation that supports our Guard men and women and boosts emergency preparedness in our communities."

Senator Cruz highlighted the importance of readiness: "National Guardsmen are essential to our national defense and disaster response capabilities. Their ability to respond quickly and effectively to natural disasters, civil disturbances, and other state missions is vital to the safety and security of our communities. I am proud to join Sens. Lee and Manchin in introducing bipartisan legislation that ensures funds needed to maintain the Guard's readiness go to the right place. This change will directly benefit our National Guard units across Texas and the entire nation, empowering them to better serve our citizens."

Senator Klobuchar added: "The men and women of the National Guard serve our country and communities with bravery and honor. They are often among the first to respond to a major disaster like a blizzard or flood. This legislation will ensure they can maintain the resources they need to fulfill their missions."

Senator Rubio also voiced his support: “I’m proud to introduce the Guarding Readiness Resources Act to ensure that our National Guard has the necessary funding for equipment and is prepared for any emergency.”

Senator Crapo emphasized efficiency: “The National Guard continually protects us both at home and abroad. This bill goes a long way in eliminating federal red tape to ensure readiness and provides the National Guard with funding, resources, and equipment necessary for successful missions.”

The legislation addresses a significant operational challenge faced by the National Guard where states must reimburse federal assets used for state-directed missions through payments directed back into U.S Treasury rather than appropriate units.

Retired Maj Gen. Francis M. McGinn, president of NGAUS, stressed urgency: "The National Guard continuously responds to dynamic domestic challenges requiring significant unforeseen state expenditures. While law allows federal reimbursement, it’s executed such that states never see those much-needed funds creating substantial budget gaps threatening force readiness,” said McGinn." The act corrects this oversight ensuring necessary resources for effective mission fulfillment.”

Jeffrey Frisby, Executive Director of EANGUS, added perspective on dual missions: "The dual mission often creates blurry lines in pay benefits utilization military equipment standards serviceability important funding always repair maintenance mission success thankful work Senators Lee Manchin eliminate delays ensuring equipment ready every mission next."

For further information:

- One-pager [link]

- Bill text [link]

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