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09-23-2004

Page history last edited by PBworks 17 years, 7 months ago

September 23, 2004

ROMNEY SIGNS LAW PROTECTING ARMED SERVICE MEMBERS

Prevents employers from discriminating against members of Guard and Reserve

 

Governor Mitt Romney today signed into law a measure prohibiting employment discrimination against all members of the military, including those serving in the National Guard and Reserve.

 

“The American servicemen and women of the Guard and Reserve leave their jobs, their spouses and their children to wear the uniform that defends our country,” said Romney.

 

He added, “This selfless commitment should be honored by businesses across Massachusetts as we work to ensure they are treated fairly while they balance their employment responsibilities and obligations to the armed services. No business should ever put the bottom line ahead of America’s front line.”

 

The new law signed by Romney prevents employers from discriminating against current or prospective employees who are enrolled in any of nation’s Reserve forces including the Air and Army National Guards and the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Naval Reserves. Currently there are 8,958 Massachusetts residents in the Air and Army National Guards, 2,500 in Air Force, 2,686 in Army, 715 in Marine Corps, 183 in Naval and 125 in Coast Guard Reserves.

 

“I am very pleased that all men and women, including those members of the National Guard and Reserves, who are currently serving our country in harms way, have this protection and cannot be discriminated against for employment,” said Representative Poirier, who spearheaded the legislation. “I will continue to advocate on behalf of all veterans.”

 

Employees who are called away to military duty may be forced to leave on short notice for various lengths of time, creating a financial impact on their employer. The new law will ensure workers in Massachusetts can serve their country as members of the National Guard or Reserves with peace of mind that they will not be discriminated against in the workplace through a denial of employment, promotion or benefits.

 

“I have been advocating for veterans for a number of years and I am very happy that Representative Poirier and Senator Brown have supported and fought for this legislation. I am delighted to be here on behalf of all military personnel,” said National Guard Reservist Craig Chapman.

 

The legislation also establishes a Commission on Veterans’ Employment Opportunities, which is tasked with investigating and determining whether veterans are subject to employment discrimination on the basis of their veterans’ status. The commission will consist of five members including, the Secretary of Veterans’ Services, the Secretary of Economic Development, a member selected by the Senate President, a member selected by the House Speaker and a veteran appointed by the Governor.

 

The Commission will issue a report on their findings and recommendations to the Secretary of Veterans’ Services every year on March 1.

 

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