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Minutes for SB292 - Committee on Veterans and Military
Short Title
Updating statutes related to the Kansas army and air national guard, providing for the appointment of a state judge advocate and providing for the adjustment of death and disability benefits.
Minutes Content for Tue, Mar 5, 2024
The Chairman called on the Revisor to brief the Committee on the contents of SB292. (Attachment 1) She stood for questions.
Chairman Ellis called on Representative Tim Johnson who provided comments for discussion. He talked about the out-dated language and gave some examples. He went on to say they really need to give back to commanders the tools they need to implement the National Guard members whether for discipline or if they are hurt. He talked about monthly benefits when they are called into action or for emergencies. The members are involved in training and with equipment which could result in accidents or injuries leaving a family in need for benefits that are fair and equitable for any military veteran.
The proponent on this bill was Lt. Col. Jacob McElwee. (Attachment 2) He said SB292 provides administrative updates to the statutes which governs the organizational and administrative functions of the Kansas National Guard. He went on to say this bill codifies how The Adjutant General selects and appoints the State Judge Advocate and assistant judge advocates. He said the bill also addresses the state military disability board which determines benefits to national guard members who are injured or killed while in service to the State of Kansas.
The Chairman asked if there were additional proponents, any opponents or neutrals. There were not so he closed the hearing on SB292 and opened the hearing on SB431.
