This week, U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn, R-Fla., introduced a proposal that “would provide back pay for all service members that were unjustly separated from the armed forces due to refusing the COVID-19 vaccine.”
Dunn introduced the “TROOP Act” this week with nine co-sponsors led by U.S. Rep. Ronnie Jackson, R-Texas.
“As the son of a veteran, the father of a veteran, and a veteran myself, I understand and appreciate the sacrifices service members and their families make in defending our freedoms. Over 8,400 servicemembers have been discharged for choosing not to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Their lives were uprooted, and they now deserve justice since the Biden vaccine mandate has been lifted,” said Dunn on Tuesday. “Giving this pay and the option to be reinstated is long overdue. I’m proud and honored to do my part to fight for our service members and their families.”
“As a retired rear admiral and member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am proud to join my friend from Florida in introducing the TROOP Act. Protecting our servicemembers from the current administration’s relentless attacks is a top priority for me. The recent discharge of 8,400 servicemembers, solely for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, is both dangerous and unjust. It not only impacts the servicemembers, but also their families and loved ones,” said Jackson. “At a time when recruitment numbers are at an all-time low, President Biden chose to endanger our national security, which is unacceptable. I fully endorse the reinstatement of all qualified servicemembers with full back pay and benefits.”
The bill “would cover all branches, reservists, and the National Guard” and “allow servicemembers to be reinstated in the military at the same rank and grade.”
Dunn’s bill was sent to the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. Other backers include Florida Republican U.S. Reps. Vern Buchanan, Scott Franklin, Carlos Gimenez, Cory Mills and Bill Posey.
There is no companion measure over in the U.S. Senate. With Democrats in charge of the chamber, the bill is not expected to gain much traction in the Senate.
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