October 26, 2016

Acting Ranking Member Mark Takano Statement on Department of Defense Freezing Collection of National Guard Bonuses

Washington, D.C. – Today, Acting Ranking Member Mark Takano released the following statement on the Department of Defense’s decision to freeze collection of California National Guard Bonuses.

“I strongly support this step taken by the Department of Defense to suspend efforts to collect California National Guard enlistment bonuses awarded to servicemembers up to a decade ago. The men and women who stepped up to serve our nation in good faith should not be held accountable for other people’s mistakes. It is appalling that so many members of the California Guard and their families were put under such extreme financial and emotional stress.

“While this is a step in the right direction, it is not a resolution for the hundreds, if not thousands of servicemembers and veterans caught in this ridiculous situation. The Department of Defense and Congress must work together to find a permanent solution and make whole the California Guardsmen who enlisted in good faith but were already forced to pay back their enlistment bonuses.

“Only by ensuring that every single member of the California Guard is treated with dignity and respect do we fully honor the service and sacrifice of those who answered the call to defend our nation.”

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