Russ Feingold: “my amendment would allow the National Guard to almost fully fund its operation and maintenance, or O&M account, for the…”

“my amendment would allow the National Guard to almost fully fund its operation and maintenance, or O&M account, for the coming fiscal year. This year's Defense Department budget request left the National Guard with a $634 million budget shortfall, including a $450 million shortfall in the Guard's O&M account. This request fell on the heals of a $743 million shortfall for the current fiscal year. I think these shortfalls are wrongheaded and unacceptable. Fortunately, both Houses of Congress have acted more responsibly in funding the National Guard. Even with the improvements from both Houses, though, the Senate appropriations bill we are currently considering leaves the Guard's operation and maintenance account $225 million short. The House bill leaves an even greater gap of $317 million. My amendment would add $220 million to the National Guard's O&M account, leaving just a $5 million shortfall to that account. According to the National Guard, shortfalls in the operation and maintenance account compromise the Guard's readiness levels, capabilities, force structure, and end strength. Failing to fully support these vital areas will have a direct as well as indirect effect. The shortfall puts the Guard's personnel, schools, training, full-time support, and retention and recruitment at risk.”