Senators Mike Lee of Utah and Tammy Duckworth of Illinois have introduced the Guarding Readiness Resources Act, a bill aimed at ensuring National Guard units receive necessary funding. The bill seeks to exempt State Active Duty (SAD) reimbursement payments from the Miscellaneous Receipts Act, ensuring funds go directly to the Guard units instead of the U.S. Treasury.
According to the Office of the U.S. Senator of Utah, Mike Lee, currently, National Guard reimbursements are routed to the Treasury, causing delays that impact the Guard’s readiness. Senator Lee explained, “Our legislation eliminates unnecessary hurdles, ensuring that the funds used by states to reimburse the National Guard go directly to maintaining and preparing our equipment for future missions.” Senator Duckworth added, “Our bipartisan Guarding Readiness Resources Act would better ensure the Guard has access to the funds needed for the maintenance and readiness activities that help them keep our country safe.”
The bill has gained strong backing from military organizations. CMSgt. Josh J. Baker, Vice President of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), emphasized that the legislation is an important step in addressing existing issues, ensuring that Guardsmen are properly equipped, trained, and supported for both domestic and overseas missions. Retired Maj Gen. Francis M. McGinn, President of the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS), highlighted the financial challenges posed by urgent responses, noting that unforeseen state expenditures often create significant budget gaps that jeopardize the Guard's readiness.
The bill also has support in the House, with Rep. Pat Harrigan of North Carolina leading a companion version. He stressed that the National Guard plays a vital role as America's first responder, but outdated bureaucracy has been draining resources and leaving essential equipment damaged and underfunded after State Active Duty missions. The Guarding Readiness Resources Act addresses this issue by cutting red tape at the Department of the Treasury. Harrigan further noted that the bill helps ensure Guardsmen remain mission-ready, whether they are responding to natural disasters or assisting local law enforcement.
If passed, the Guarding Readiness Resources Act will ensure National Guard units receive direct reimbursements, allowing them to maintain, repair, and replace equipment needed for both state and federal missions.
