Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB1975

Introduced
6/14/23  

Caption

Discharge Review Board Accountability Act of 2023

Impact

Should this bill pass, it will require the GAO to assess several critical elements surrounding the discharge review boards, including their compliance with the 'liberal consideration' standard as articulated in relevant statutes and guidance, such as the Kurta memorandum. The study aims to elucidate how often and effectively these boards are following necessary guidelines and examining the potential barriers that affect their decision-making processes. The outcomes of this assessment could potentially lead to significant reforms aimed at improving the review and appeal processes for veterans seeking upgrades to their discharge status.

Summary

SB1975, titled the 'Discharge Review Board Accountability Act of 2023', aims to mandate a comprehensive study by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) regarding the adherence of discharge review boards to specific statutory provisions governing the liberal consideration of certain conditions. This legislative initiative emerges from a recognized need for enhanced oversight and better understanding of how discharge review boards operate under the laws related to military discharge requests, particularly concerning veterans who claim mental health issues or trauma-related circumstances. The bill was introduced for consideration by the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

Contention

While the bill has the support of various legislators concerned about veterans' rights, there's a possibility of contention regarding the interpretation of 'liberal consideration' and how it is implemented across different cases. Critics may argue that the bill reflects an oversight mechanism that could either improve accountability or impose excessive bureaucracy on the review boards. Furthermore, discussions may arise regarding the timelines for reporting findings, as the GAO is required to present preliminary findings within 180 days post-enactment, which could raise concerns about the thoroughness of the study given the complexities involved in reviewing military discharge cases.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB4278

Restore VA Accountability Act of 2023 Restore Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability Act of 2023

US SB2158

Restore VA Accountability Act of 2023 Restore Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability Act of 2023

US HB4225

VA Acquisition Review Board Act of 2023

US HB7557

Coast Guard Protection and Accountability Act of 2024

US HB4691

Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act of 2023

US HB5542

Accountability in Assignment Restrictions and Reviews Act of 2023

US SB2892

Algorithmic Accountability Act of 2023

US HB4084

FAIR Fund Act of 2023 Fostering Accountability In Remuneration Fund Act of 2023

US HB1431

Landlord Accountability Act of 2023

US SB1920

International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act of 2023

Similar Bills

CA AB2573

Policy fellows: status of services: associations.

CA SB698

California Council on Science and Technology Policy Fellows: status of services.

TX HB1743

Relating to a memorandum of understanding between the Health and Human Services Commission and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to assess the eligibility of certain inmates for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits on discharge or release from confinement.

TX HB4966

Relating to law enforcement agency personnel records and the reporting of separations of license holders to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

CA AB1313

Water quality: permits.

CA AB2864

Coastal resources: oil spills.

VT S0124

An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects

TX HB4120

Relating to allowing certain inmates to apply for benefits under certain public benefits programs to be provided at the time of discharge or release.