H.R.1824 - Supporting Disabled National Guardsmen Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1824, the Supporting Disabled National Guardsmen Act, seeks to amend titles 10 and 38 of the United States Code. The bill aims to extend certain benefits to members of the National Guard who incur disabilities while performing State active duty. This includes eligibility for retirement benefits and healthcare furnished by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would provide additional support to National Guard members injured while on State active duty. It ensures they receive similar benefits to those on federal active duty. This could improve the financial and medical security of disabled guardsmen.
Potential Benefits
- Provides retirement benefits to National Guard members disabled during State active duty.
- Ensures access to healthcare services through the Department of Veterans Affairs for disabilities incurred during State active duty.
- Offers financial security by providing retired pay, although it may be reduced to avoid duplication of benefits.
- Addresses a gap in coverage for National Guard members serving on State active duty compared to federal active duty.
- Potentially improves morale and recruitment within the National Guard by providing enhanced benefits.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to the federal government for providing these additional benefits.
- Complexity in determining the extent to which retired pay duplicates other federal or state benefits.
- Administrative burden on the Department of Veterans Affairs to manage the healthcare provisions.
- Possible delays or limitations in accessing healthcare services due to appropriation constraints.
- The bill's limitation clause could reduce the actual benefit received if other benefits are already in place.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By supporting National Guard members who are injured while serving their state, the bill strengthens national defense capabilities. Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).