New Jersey Assembly Bill ACR45

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Urges US Congress to pass legislation to reinstate service members discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccine.

Impact

Should H.R.7570 be enacted, it would provide affected service members the opportunity to be reinstated to their previous rank and grade upon request and upgrade their discharge status to honorable. This change is aimed at recognizing the sacrifices made by military members and restoring their eligibility for benefits that may have been compromised by their discharge status. The resolution reflects New Jersey's commitment to honor the efforts of military personnel while also respecting individual choices regarding vaccination.

Summary

Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 45 (ACR45) is a resolution from the New Jersey Legislature that urges the United States Congress to pass legislation (H.R.7570) aimed at reinstating service members who were discharged from the military for refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The resolution highlights the situation that arose when the Biden administration mandated vaccinations for military personnel in 2021, leading to disciplinary actions against those who opted out. As a consequence, many service members received general discharges under honorable conditions, which can affect their future employment and perceived contributions to the Armed Forces.

Contention

Not all legislators and stakeholders may view ACR45 favorably. The bill could spur discussions about military policy concerning vaccination mandates as well as broader implications regarding personal choice versus public health mandates in the military context. There may be varying opinions about the appropriateness of reinstating service members who refused the vaccine, and such debates could frame future discussions in both legislative and public arenas.