Westmoreland Review

On May 17, 2024, Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and U.S. Representative Max Miller (R-OH) introduced H.R. 8445, a legislation aimed at extending the benefits of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) to American citizens serving in the Israel Defense Forces.

Reschenthaler commented on the new legislation, stating, “Over 20,000 American citizens are currently defending Israel from Hamas terrorists, risking their lives for the betterment of our ally. This legislation will ensure we do everything possible to support these heroes who are standing with Israel, fighting for freedom, and combating terrorism in the Middle East.”

Miller echoed Reschenthaler's sentiments: “As our closest ally in the Middle East continues to defend itself against terror, many brave Americans have decided to lend a hand. I’m proud that this legislation extends important protections to those Americans who chose to risk their lives in the fight against terror.”

The SCRA provides financial management safeguards for active-duty members such as rental agreements, security deposits, evictions, installment contracts, credit card interest rates, mortgages, civil judicial proceedings, and income tax payments among others.

The USERRA prohibits employment discrimination based on an individual’s prior service in the uniformed services or current service in the uniformed services or intent to join them.