TRICARE Fairness for National Guard and Reserve Retirees Act
Impact
If enacted, SB1670 would notably impact federal laws governing military retiree benefits, particularly those linked to healthcare services. By allowing younger retired reserve members to qualify for TRICARE, the bill aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access for a demographic that has often been overlooked. This change could significantly improve the quality of life for many retired service members who are currently ineligible for this vital healthcare program due to restrictive age limits. The proposed amendments are set to take effect by January 1, 2024, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue within the legislative framework.
Summary
SB1670, titled the ‘TRICARE Fairness for National Guard and Reserve Retirees Act’, aims to amend Title 10 of the United States Code to enhance the TRICARE healthcare program for specific members of the Retired Reserve of the reserve components. At its core, this bill seeks to adjust TRICARE eligibility criteria to better serve retired members under the age of 60 who are entitled to receive non-regular retirement pay, thus addressing an inequity in access to healthcare among retired reserve members. The bill's provisions are particularly significant, as they aim to ensure that members who qualify for retirement benefits but are not yet at the age of 60 can still access necessary healthcare services under TRICARE.
Contention
While supporters advocate for the bill as a necessary reform to enhance benefits for military retirees, there may be concerns about the financial implications of increasing eligibility for TRICARE. Critics might raise questions regarding the sustainability of expanding healthcare access to a broader demographic of retired members before they reach the traditional retirement age. Such discussions might reflect the ongoing debate about resource allocation within military benefits programs and the potential strain on the TRICARE system as it anticipates an influx of new enrollees.
National Digital Reserve Corps Act This bill establishes a National Digital Reserve Corps in the General Services Administration (GSA) to address the digital and cybersecurity needs of executive agencies. The GSA must establish standards for reservist eligibility and must ensure reservists have the necessary resources and security credentials for service. Reservists must agree to serve for three years and for at least 30 days per year as an active reservist, with up to $10,000 in annual compensation; reservists who fail to accept an offered appointment or complete required duties are subject to fines. The GSA may cover the costs of continuing education for reservists to support their service. The Department of Labor must issue regulations that ensure the reemployment, continuation of benefits, and nondiscrimination in reemployment of active reservists. In August 2021, President Joe Biden established the U.S. Digital Corps within the GSA to support the technological needs of executive agencies, including cybersecurity needs. The corps offers entry-level positions through two-year fellowships, with the option to convert to full-time career positions after completion of the fellowship.