NATIONAL GUARD BILL WOULD CURB HEALTH CARE WORRIES FOR PA TROOPS

            HARRISBURG, May 4 – State Sen. John N. Wozniak has introduced legislation that would provide continued health coverage for Pennsylvania National Guard members and reservists called to active duty.

            “The last thing our National Guard troops need is to worry about health care for themselves and their families when they’re deployed overseas,” said Wozniak (D-Cambria/ Clinton/ Centre/ Clearfield/ Somerset. “Whether the Guard member is a public or private employee, this bill would make the state’s health insurance plan available to families who need it.”

            Senate Bill 681 would allow active duty members of the Pennsylvania National Guard or reservists to continue receiving health care benefits provided by public sector employers for the duration of active service, with the cost borne by the public employer. The bill also would require the state to provide health coverage for active Guard members or reservists who are employed by the private sector and choose to accept the state’s benefits plan.

             Wozniak’s legislation is part of a widespread effort by Senate Democrats to secure the financial, educational and health care needs of Pennsylvania National Guard members. Approximately 5,000 of the state’s National Guard troops are listed on active duty at any given time.

            “These men and women put their work, their family lives, and their personal goals on hold to serve their country overseas,” Wozniak said. “The least we can do, as legislators, is take away some of their worries, and help make the transition to full-time military life a little easier.”

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