Bill > S2097

This bill provides comprehensive remedies for military service members who were discharged for not complying with the COVID-19 vaccination mandate. The legislation allows covered members (active or reserve military personnel previously subject to the vaccination requirement) to file civil actions in the Court of Federal Claims challenging their discharge as involuntary or unlawful. If successful, service members can receive multiple remedies, including being deemed to have served their full contract period, potential retirement benefits (if they would have reached 18-20 years of service), eligibility to reenlist, and compensation for inactive-duty training not performed. The bill defines key terms such as "covered discharge" and "COVID-19 vaccination mandate" and specifically references the Department of Defense memorandum from August 24, 2021, mandating COVID-19 vaccination. These remedies are in addition to any existing provisions under Executive Order 14184, which also addressed reinstatement of service members discharged due to vaccination status. The legislation aims to provide retroactive justice for service members who were separated from military service primarily due to their COVID-19 vaccination status, offering them financial compensation, potential reinstatement, and preservation of their military service record and benefits.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2097/all-info