Legislation

2021 Legislative Agenda

The National Guard Association of Massachusetts (NGAMA) is the only organization solely dedicated to the more than 8,000 members of the Massachusetts Army and Air National Guard, as well as veterans of the Massachusetts National Guard and their families. NGAMA’s mission is to help ensure the Massachusetts National Guard is fully funded, staffed, equipped, and trained to perform its state and federal mission and that members and veterans receive the benefits they have earned.

Always ready to serve the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts National Guard must retain quality people, and replace those who have completed their commitments or retired. Accordingly, NGAMA’s legislative, budget and mission priorities reflect the critical need to attract, train and retain quality women and men in the Guard and recognize organizations and institutions that support the Massachusetts National Guard.

NGAMA adopts this 2021 Legislative Agenda to strengthen the Guard by specifically focusing on the following priorities:

State Legislative Priorities

An Act Relative to the Massachusetts National Guard Family Education Program

HD 2195-Sponsored by Representative Meghan Kilcoyne

SD 1274– Sponsored by Senator Julian Cyr

Mirrors the Federal Post 9-11 GI Bill by allowing members to transfer any unused education benefits to dependents
To be eligible, members must complete their initial 6-year commitment, and re-enlist for an additional 6 years

An Act Establishing a Tax Credit for Employment of National Guard Members

HD 1040-Sponsored by Majority Leader Claire Cronin

SD 1294– Sponsored by Senator Eric Lesser

Provides a $2000 tax credit for employers that hire members of the National Guard
Limited to businesses with 100 or fewer employees
Limited to $1M annually

An Act Relative to the Founding of the United States Army, the United States Air Force, and the National Guard

HD 1036– Sponsored by Majority Leader Claire Cronin

SD 2265– Sponsored by Senator Walter Timilty

Formally recognizes in state law the founding of the Army and Air Force, the two branches that make up the National Guard
Formally recognizes in state law the founding of the National Guard

An Act Relative Military-Spouse Licensure, Portability, Education and Enrollment of Dependents

HD 4065– Sponsored by Representative Linda Dean Campbell

SD 2273- Sponsored by Senator Walter Timilty

Streamlines professional licensing requirements for military spouses transitioning to Massachusetts
Adopts several Department of Defense “best practices” for transitioning service members and their dependents related to education benefits and school enrollment

Write to Congress

Every year, NGAMA, together with NGAUS, develops priorities based on grass-roots input and expertise from our members: the Soldiers and Airmen of the Massachusetts National Guard. We advocate on Becon Hill and in Congress to ensure they have the capabilities, equipment, and benefits to successfully execute their Total Force mission.

Take action on issues important to your Soliders and Airmen by emailing your representatives.

Take Action Now