A bill to amend title 14, United States Code, to require the retention of certain enlisted members of the Coast Guard who have completed 18 or more, but less than 20, years of service, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT]
- Committees
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 22, 2025
Bottom line
This bill establishes a 'stop-loss' protection for Coast Guard enlisted personnel nearing retirement eligibility, preventing involuntary separation before they can achieve 20 years of service.
What it actually does
This bill amends title 14, United States Code, to mandate the retention of certain enlisted members of the Coast Guard who are facing involuntary separation or denial of reenlistment. Specifically, it protects members who have completed 18 or more, but less than 20, years of service, ensuring they can complete the 20 years required to qualify for retirement benefits. This applies to both regular and reserve components, with specific timelines for reserve members.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue this bill provides essential career stability and financial security for long-serving Coast Guard members, ensuring they receive the retirement benefits they have earned through nearly two decades of dedicated service. They contend it prevents a situation where members are separated just shy of retirement, which could be seen as unfair and detrimental to morale and retention efforts.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that this bill could limit the Coast Guard's flexibility in managing its force, potentially requiring the retention of personnel who might otherwise be separated due to performance issues (not rising to 'for cause' separation), changing operational needs, or budgetary constraints. This could lead to inefficiencies or unforeseen costs.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for a reader to understand its core provisions quickly.
Section 1(a), new section 2517(a) of title 14, United States Code
Retention for Regular Component Members Nearing Retirement
This provision requires the Coast Guard to retain regular enlisted members who are selected for involuntary separation or denied reenlistment, if they are within two years of qualifying for retirement (i.e., have 18 to less than 20 years of service). These members must be kept on active duty until they reach 20 years of service, unless they are retired or discharged earlier under other provisions of law.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision protects career Coast Guard members from being unfairly denied their earned retirement benefits after nearly two decades of service, fostering trust, morale, and long-term commitment within the ranks.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this provision could compel the Coast Guard to retain members who are no longer meeting performance standards or whose skills are not aligned with current needs, potentially impacting readiness and overall efficiency.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the individual security and morale of long-serving members against the Coast Guard's need for flexible and efficient force management, particularly in situations requiring personnel adjustments.
Section 1(a), new section 2517(b) of title 14, United States Code
Retention for Reserve Component Members in Active Status Nearing Retirement
This provision extends similar protection to enlisted members of the Coast Guard Reserve serving in an active status. If they are involuntarily separated (excluding for physical disability or cause) or denied reenlistment (excluding for physical disability or cause) and have 18 to less than 20 years of service, they cannot be separated without their consent. They are retained until they reach 20 years of service, or for a maximum of three years (if 18-19 years of service) or two years (if 19-20 years of service) from their original separation date, whichever comes earlier.