U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) on March 18 sponsored a bipartisan bill that aims to establish equal protections for members of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and create benefits parity with the other branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
“This is about fairness, recognizing the sacrifices of our Coast Guard, and ensuring these service members are not forced out just before reaching retirement eligibility,” Rep. Kiggans said. “As a Navy veteran, I am proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to uphold our commitment to those who serve.”
The congresswoman introduced the Coast Guard Separation Parity Act, H.R. 2200, with original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-HI) to ensure USCG members receive the same 20-year retirement benefits as their military counterparts in other branches.
H.R. 2200 would ensure enlisted USCG members who have served at least 18 years are not forced to leave the service shortly before reaching a 20-year retirement. Ensuring experienced personnel can complete their 20 years of service would strengthen retention, morale, and fairness, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Kiggans’ staff.
“After years of dedicated service to our country, every member of our Armed Forces deserves the right to retire with the benefits they’ve earned, including the Coast Guard,” said Rep. Kiggans. “The Coast Guard Separation Parity Act ensures that the brave men and women who wear the uniform in our nation’s maritime force receive the same protections as their military counterparts in other branches.”
The bill has garnered support from the Navy League, Concerned Veterans for America, Blue Star Families, the Military Officers Association of America, With Honor, and Veterans for Mustangs.
“I’m proud and honored to co-lead the Coast Guard Separation Parity Act with my colleague Rep. Kiggans, so those who sacrifice so much are better protected and have every opportunity to fairly advocate for themselves, just as their fellow service members in the other service branches,” said Rep. Tokuda.