CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement after President Donald J. Trump’s announcement that he would be extending National Guard Title 32 orders through mid-August:

“This is fantastic news. Our National Guard plays a tremendous role in our fight against the coronavirus, and they deserve full support and benefits for the vital work they are performing in our communities right now,” Senator Capito said. “I’m pleased President Trump agrees and is extending the Title 32 orders so our National Guard can continue their critical work and get the proper compensation.”

BACKGROUND:

Last week, Senator Capito and her colleagues wrote a letter, urging President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Mark Esper, and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Peter Gaynor to help provide improved status, leave, healthcare, and reimbursement benefits to National Guard service members that are providing invaluable support services in response to COVID-19.

Specifically, the Senator Capito and her colleagues requested:

  • An extension of the National Guards Title 32 orders, which are currently in place until June 24.

  • An exemption for National Guard members from having to use annual leave to quarantine. The letter also requests that members be able to sell back their leave or roll it over.

  • Members who were activated are provided Transition Assistance Management Program (TAMP) for 180 days after coming off Title 32 orders. 

  • The GI Bill and retirement benefits are protected for these members currently serving under Title 32.

 

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here.

 

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