Introducing The Equal Access To Pre-Separation Act Of 2010

Floor Speech

* Ms. PINGREE of Maine. Madam Speaker, today I am proud to be introducing the Equal Access to Pre-Separation Act of 2010. This bill requires the Department of Defense to give benefit information to members of the Reserve Component before they separate or retire.

* For too many years, members of the Guard and Reserve have left the service without a clear picture of the benefits their service has earned them. This legislation ensures that these individuals and their families are educated on how to access benefits like VA health care and Tricare health care programs.

* For years the Guard and Reserve have played a critical strategic role in our national defense. I am grateful to these individuals for their service to the Nation. They have made great sacrifices, and I believe that Congress has a moral obligation to educate these heroes on the benefits they have earned. This bill is just one way we can begin to re-pay them for all that they have done to protect this country. I strongly believe that Congress has a moral obligation to keep the promises made to our troops in return for their service.

* I look forward to working with my colleagues in the coming weeks to pass this important legislation in the House.

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