WASHINGTON, DC: Yesterday, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) announced the reintroduction of the Pay Our Troops Act, which would ensure members of the military are paid in the event of a government shutdown. The bill will protect members of the military, including the Coast Guard, as well as certain U.S. Department of Defense civilian employees and contractors. 

In just 24 hours, the Pay Our Troops Act has received bipartisan support from more than 30 members of Congress and has been endorsed by a growing number of active-duty, military family, and veteran organizations. These organizations include: the American Legion, Blue Star Families, Navy League of the United States, National Military Family Association, Chief Warrant and Warrant Officers Association for the United States Coast Guard, Military Officers Association of America, and Sea Service Family. Here’s what they’re saying: 

American Legion: “On behalf of The American Legion’s 1.6 million dues-paying members and our extended Legion family, I am grateful to Congresswoman Kiggans for her continued support of our troops. The Pay Our Troops Act is a vital piece of legislation to protect military quality of life and ensure families are cared for. No one wearing the uniform of our armed services should endure t heir pay being delayed by Congress’s failure to act. The American Legion urges Congress to pass this legislation.” – James LaCoursiere, National Commander

Navy League of the United States: “The men and women serving in America’s armed forces risk their lives to protect us. Now, it is our turn to protect them. The Navy League of the United States supports Congresswoman Kiggans’ effort to safeguard pay formilitary servicemembers, and the men and women serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, in the event of a lapse in government funding.” – Mike Stevens, CEO

National Military Family Association: “Financial stability shouldn’t be on the line while military families must continue to serve.Military families deserve the paychecks, benefits, and the safety nets they rely on to make ends meet and service possible. We urge Congress to pass the Pay Our Troops Act immediately and show our service members and their families their sacrifice is worth it.” – Besa Pinchotti, CEO 

Military Officers Association of America (MOAA): “The Pay Our Troops Act is designed to guarantee our servicemembers receive timely compensation, even when government funding lapses. Servicemembers remain steadfast in safeguarding our nation, despite the risk of delayed pay during government shutdowns. This Act addresses the uncertainty surrounding their compensation and benefits, providing crucial financial stability for military families as they safeguard our country.” – Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly, USAF (Ret), President and CEO 

Blue Star Families: “Our military is willing to do their job for the country, which often puts their lives at risk. We just ask that Congress do their job to keep the government running and get us paid.” – Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO

Sea Service Family: “Endorsing this legislation is vital to protect the financial stability of our Armed Forces and the Coast Guard during potential government shutdowns. In 2018, the Coast Guard went 40 days without pay, causing significant financial strain on service members and their families. This bill ensures that those who serve our nation, along with the civilians and contractors supporting them, won’t face unnecessary hardship during such times. It allows them to stay focused on their duties without the added concern of how they’ll make ends meet when the government shuts down.” – Michael Joseph Little, US Navy (Ret), Chairman of the Board of Directors for Sea Service Family, Foundation

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