The National Guard and Reserve Bill of Rights Acts of 2004, a companion bill to legislation introduced in the Senate, is comprised of nine principles related to deployments, equipment, compensation, health care, child care, employment, education, retirement and representation. 

“Our Guard and Reserve forces are sacrificing their lives to nobly defend this great nation, and they deserve better treatment,” said Ross.  “This common-sense legislation would require the Department of Defense (DoD) to treat active and reserve forces the same when deciding the length of deployment and makes certain to do everything possible to ensure their employment is available upon returning from their mission. 

“We have an obligation to our men and women on the ground to provide them with the best equipment available to get the job done, and this bill orders a study to ensure we are holding up our end of the bargain.  This bill also expands TRICARE eligibility unconditionally for members of the Ready Reserve, seeks to fix problems with the current pay system so that all members are fairly compensated and lowers the retirement age from 60 to 55. 

“The fact is, we are at war, and these brave men and women are fighting this battle overseas for those of us here at home.  We should not expect anyone to defend this country without receiving the best treatment and compensation the government can offer.  Right now, we are not doing our best, and The National Guard and Reserve Bill of Rights Act of 2004 is the first step to correcting the problems these soldiers and their families face and shows our appreciation for the sacrifices they make for this great nation.”