Gov. Kim Reynolds has joined more than 50 governors from states, commonwealths, and territories in opposing a legislative proposal by the Department of Defense to the Senate Armed Services Committee that would limit governors’ authority over their respective states’ National Guard units. According to the governors, Legislative Proposal 480 challenges gubernatorial authorities regarding the National Guard, risking over a century of precedent and undermining national security and military readiness. The letter says, “Legislation that sidesteps, eliminates, or otherwise reduces Governors’ authority within their states and territories undermines longstanding partnerships, precedence, military readiness, and operational efficacy. This action also negatively affects the important relationships between Governors and DOD at a time when we need to have full trust and confidence between the two to meet the growing threats posed by the era of strategic competition as well as natural disasters. LP480 also poses a threat to the careers of state-based service members who will be forced to choose between state service or continuing in their current field at a time when there are already significant recruitment challenges. An action like this will violate the trust of the brave women and men who have volunteered to serve our states and our nation.” A link to the governors’ full letter is included below.
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National-Governors-Association-LP480-4.29.24
