Henrico Times

Congressman Rob Wittman and Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at increasing military leave for federal employees serving in the National Guard or reserve forces. The current law provides 15 days of paid leave for these federal employees, which is based on a Monday through Friday work schedule. This does not account for those who work weekends, such as federal firefighters and law enforcement officers.

The proposed Supporting Federal Employees in the National Guard & Reserves Act seeks to increase this leave to 36 days per fiscal year. This change would cover the minimum number of days that members of the National Guard and reserves are required to serve, including weekends.

Rep. Wittman emphasized the importance of supporting veterans and federal employees who serve in these capacities, stating: “These dedicated public servants should not have to use their sick leave and vacation days in order to attend drill on weekends and their annual training.” Rep. Spanberger added that guardsmen and reservists often make significant personal sacrifices and should not have to further sacrifice their personal time off.

The bill has received endorsements from several national organizations representing federal employees and first responders, including the National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). Patrick Yoes, National President of FOP, noted that sufficient military leave is crucial for the well-being of those serving dual roles.

William M. Bowser, President of AFGE Fort Walker Local 2902, highlighted that the act recognizes the dual service obligations faced by these individuals and aims to alleviate their burden by providing additional support.

The legislation is part of a broader effort to ensure that federal employees who also serve in military capacities can maintain financial stability while fulfilling their duties without undue stress on themselves or their families.