Blumenthal Statement on National Guard Overpayment of Reenlistment Bonuses

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today in response to an LA Times report on efforts to recoup reenlistment bonuses from soldiers – many of whom were deployed overseas – who were mistakenly overpaid by the National Guard.

“Requiring repayment of these reenlistment bonuses is exacting an inexcusable and unfair hardship and wreaking havoc on American patriots who responded to the call for reenlistment and were mobilized. If any amounts were mistakenly paid, they should be absolved across the board. Accountability should continue to be imposed instead on any National Guard leadership who knowingly or negligently may be responsible. I am actively exploring a legal basis for administrative action, and legislation action if necessary.”

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