Wichita Standard

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Jon Tester have introduced the Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act of 2024 to expand GI Bill benefits for National Guard and Reserve members who perform federal duty statuses. Senator Moran emphasized the importance of ensuring equal benefits for guardsmen and reservists, stating, “Every day in uniform is a day in service to this nation.” Senator Tester echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to provide educational benefits to those who serve their country, saying, “our bipartisan legislation will ensure Guard and Reserve members who serve their country will get the educational benefits they’ve earned.”

Retired Maj Gen. Francis M. McGinn, President of the National Guard Association of the United States, highlighted the significance of the GI Bill for servicemembers, stating, “The GI Bill has proven to be one of the most transformational policies for the force passed in the 20th century.” He expressed gratitude to Congress for recognizing the need for parity in benefits between active and reserve components.

Tammy Barlet, Vice President of Government Affairs at Student Veterans of America, emphasized the critical role played by the National Guard and Reserve in various operations, including disaster relief efforts and overseas deployments. Barlet praised the Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act of 2024 as legislation that addresses a longstanding disparity in educational benefits for these servicemembers.

Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America, stressed the importance of recognizing the contributions of reserve component servicemembers, stating, “When reserve component servicemembers perform the identical job and make the same sacrifices as their active duty counterparts, they should be recognized with the same benefits.”

Various other organizations, including the Reserve Organization of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and Veterans Education Success, voiced their support for the Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act, emphasizing the need for equity in benefits for National Guard and Reserve members.

Companion legislation has also been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, showing bipartisan support for expanding GI Bill benefits to guardsmen and reservists.