Bill > HR6976

This bill, titled the "Duty Status Reform Act," aims to consolidate and clarify the laws governing the duty status of reserve component members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including the National Guard. Key provisions include streamlining the authorities that can order reserve members to active duty, redefining what constitutes a "contingency operation" to encompass various types of reserve and National Guard duty, and making numerous amendments to align benefits and provisions across different branches and types of service. The bill reorganizes existing laws into a clearer structure, categorizing duty into four types: Category I (active duty), Category II (active duty), Category III (reserve component duty), and Category IV (remote assignments), with specific purposes and authorities for each. It also addresses the Coast Guard Reserve and the National Guard, ensuring their duty statuses and associated benefits are consistent with other reserve components. The legislation includes provisions for transition and statutory construction to ensure a smooth implementation and clarify how existing benefits are handled. The effective date is set for 10 years after enactment, but can be accelerated if certain conditions and certifications are met by the Secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6976/all-info