Government Affairs Committee Update

Since Conference, your Government Affairs Committee has been working hard and pushing towards the conclusion of the 89th Legislature. As this article is written the Governor has called for a Special Session and the Committee is staying on top of any issues that may come forward affecting our soldiers and airmen. In these past few months, we have asked for action from you, our members, and thankfully you have answered the call. Here are the results of our resolutions submitted during this last session.

We advanced two member-driven resolutions focused on modernizing protections and benefits for Texas Guardsmen serving long-duration State Active Duty (SAD). These resolutions addressed two critical gaps: (1) lack of retirement and health benefits for Guardsmen mobilized in-state, and (2) lack of legal and financial protection under the federal Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) for those same personnel. While neither of the two related bills resulted in new statutory enactments, both policy initiatives made meaningful progress. One bill was filed (HB 5167), and another was developed but not filed following stakeholder discovery that existing laws already incorporated the core policy protections. In both cases, advocacy efforts helped catalyze administrative improvements or clarifications in existing law and practice that advanced the resolutions’ intended outcomes.

The Calls to Action that went forward to you, our membership was referencing State Tuition Assistance. The action we saw moving forward was that of non-funding of the program and it was of grave concern to many who utilize the program, those who work for the program, and leadership within the Texas Military Department. We are happy to report our association’s efforts both through testifying and membership action; the program was not only funded but also received an increase from previous years. This is a HUGE win for our association and for our soldiers and airmen.

NGAT’s policy work during the 89th Texas Legislature demonstrates how strategic legislative engagement—through resolutions, white papers, bill drafting, and stakeholder education—can produce meaningful outcomes even without the passage of bills. As Texas continues to deploy its Guard force for sustained in-state missions, NGAT remains committed to ensuring that Guardsmen are treated equitably, protected under law, and fully supported by the state they serve.

Things that we are working towards in the months ahead.  We are entering our National Association Conference season and NGAT will be present in force as we shape the issues moving forward within EANGUS and NGAUS. The committee is rewriting SOPs to be more deliberate in how we operate as well as to improve processes. We will be submitting to the board for approval ways to honor Legislators who have championed our initiatives and ways to continue our outreach within those circles. As a committee we would love your feedback.  Are the means of communication working for you? (Social media and Emails) Did you see the calls for action sent out during this legislative session? If not email Chairman Cruz at govtaffairs@ngat.org.

The Government Affairs Committee will continue to stay ahead of issues and work hard for you, our members.