Rick Larsen: “I also want to stand in support of the Blunt/Kirk amendment to the Defense Authorization Act. Today our Guard and…”

“I also want to stand in support of the Blunt/Kirk amendment to the Defense Authorization Act. Today our Guard and Reserve are protecting our security abroad. And, frankly, it is Congress's job and responsibility to create a network of job security when they come home. That is why I support this amendment. Our Guard and Reserve are overextended. Their Nation has called on them to serve. In most cases they have left a place of employment to do so, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure that we do not create any barriers for our Guard and Reserve that would keep them from returning to those jobs. This amendment will help ensure that if you are a member of the National Guard Or Reserve you will not be at a disadvantage if working on a DOD contract through your employment. Mr. Chairman, this amendment will push the DOD to consider the employment of Guard and Reserve members when they award contracts. When serving, these women and men of the Guard and Reserve protect this Nation. This amendment gives us one more way that we can protect these brave women and men and their families when they come home.”