Steube Stands Up for National Guard During Times of Disaster as Republican Lead on Bipartisan Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today released the following statement after H.R. 7785, legislation to extend certain employment and reemployment rights to members of the National Guard, passed favorably through the House Committee on Veterans Affairs.
“Through this year with COVID-19, riots, and now an extremely active hurricane season, our National Guard members have risen to the challenge,” Steube said. “While these dedicated men and women serve our country during times of crisis, the last thing they should worry about is blowback from their employers. Our legislation will stand up for these heroes and give them the respect they deserve during difficult times.”
If enacted, H.R. 7785 would expand the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) to specifically include National Guard service members when they are called up for State Active Duty (SAD) orders. These USERRA protections would require employers to put National Guard members back to work in their civilian jobs after service.
This year, SAD orders have been issued for wide ranging events, including COVID-19 response, protests, and hurricane preparedness and response.
This week, 125 Florida National Guard troops have been deployed to the Panhandle to assist in recovery efforts following Hurricane Sally.
