H.R. 206 would amend title 32, United States Code, to improve the readiness of State defense forces and to increase military coordination for homeland security between the States and the Department of Defense.
Detailed Summary
State Defense Force Improvement Act - Recognizes state defense forces as integral military components of the homeland security effort of the United States, while reaffirming that such forces remain entirely state regulated, organized, and equipped, and recognizing that they will be used for homeland security purposes exclusively at the local level under state law.
Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to coordinate homeland security efforts with, and provide assistance (including the use of Department of Defense (DOD) property, arms, equipment, and facilities) to, a state defense force, upon request. Leaves participation by a state defense force in a DOD or Department of Homeland Security (DHS) training program to state discretion. Requires a state to reimburse DOD for training assistance costs. Provides that funds available to DOD may not be made available to a state defense force. Makes the state liable for any injuries or damages incurred by a defense force member while engaged in training activities or state active duty.
Status of the Legislation
Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009: Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.
Points in Favor
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Points Against
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Visitor Comments
SecondLTSelph
(logged in user) April 24, 2009, 5:27pm (report abuse)H.R. 206, the State Defense Force Improvement Act, is an important act for our country today. It is important for the citizens of the United States because we never know what lies ahead to threaten our safety and or welfare. Those who are against this act should take a moment to ponder over how it will affect their lives when they find themselves in a position of receiving service from members of a well trained and equipped state guard during violent, dangerous, or needful times. I donate many hours of service, as a State Guard member. I do so because it is important to me to take an active roll to ensure our country is safe and healthy for our families. Help secure our country’s promising future by supporting this act.
Joe Tiscia
June 2, 2009, 10:34am (report abuse)I am a member of the TNSG. We serve
without pay, equipment and rations.
These items we have to furnish our- selves. We have responded to natural disasters in our state. We
provided security for the local Naval Base on 911. With all of the
surplus being given to foreign countries; some could be allotied to the State Defense forces. We need funds, transportation, equipment, uniforms, canteens and
rations. Just the basic items to get the job done. Remember, we are
the last lines of defense for our
country and deserve no less.
Joe Tiscia, CSM
1st Regiment, TNSG
Texas State Guardsman
July 18, 2009, 2:31pm (report abuse)The Texas State Guard performs operations during Hurricanes, Trains on National Guard Bases and armories, and works with Federal Agencies. All this on our own dime. This Bill needs to pass if we are to be serious on Homeland Security.
Richard Ford ,SGT
August 31, 2009, 10:18pm (report abuse)This biil needs to pass.State Guard units cannot continue to operate the way most are right now.They do not have adequate resources for vehicles and eqipment.The M-35 ,M-800 series trucks that are being surplused should go directly to those units.
Many units are trying to use civilian vehicles to perform thier missions that are not made for many conditions.Other equipment shortages make it harder as well.
Equipment should be offered to the State Defense forces before going to DRMO. Many units need tents,generators,trucks,strechers,facilities etc. The Basics need to be provided by the State.Parts for the Surplus trucks are everywere.Many civilians run buisinesses selling the trucks and parts.Go to Military Vehicles Magazine for a peak. Many improvements need to be made so that the SDF can be a strong force to accomplish it missions.Training resources,Equipment,and overall support is badly needed.
CPT
September 12, 2009, 6:09pm (report abuse)Pass this Bill this time around!
CW4 Wayne Jiles (VDF)
September 17, 2009, 11:11am (report abuse)Please pass this bill. I am a retired USCGCWO4 and after serving for 30 plus years as an active member I am now a member of the Virginia Defense Force (VDF). This way I can still serve my country and my state in times of need. I and all of the other persons in the VDF bring many talents to the table which can be utilized in these times of need. We provide our time to train and stay prepared. We provide our own uniforms and the smaller equipment needed to keep ourselves prepared. Support, additional training and equipment can make the difference in whether or not we can respond and maintain ourselves for extended periods depends upon DOD, Homeland Security and the state as it may be. Without support we all may as well call it quits. There are times incidents happen and the everyday persons that handle them need help. With world event as they are our National Guard units may not be here and someone is needed to step up and take the load. That’s where we come in.
CPT Ann Tipton
September 30, 2009, 1:35pm (report abuse)I'd love to see this bill passed. I am commanding a security detachment, and we need some things to train with.... Road guard vests and flashlights would be nice. Heh, getting the patches, badges, nametapes and rank insignia for my people's uniforms when they need them would be nice. We work hard for our states. All we want the people to do is allow access to the equipment to do it with!