Chamber Welcomes Review of Reserve Policies

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Chamber of Commerce welcomed congressional efforts to bring more predictability into the federal National Guard and Reserve system so that employers can better manage their businesses while their employees serve their country.

"Employers value their citizen soldiers and continue to support them and their families in our efforts to strengthen this nation's security," said Andrew Howell, Chamber vice president for Homeland Security. "Greater predictability is vital for businesses in planning for their future as troops are deployed for longer periods of time."

The Chamber supports a resolution submitted recently by Senator Evan Bayh (D-IN) that will examine the affect of the on-going call-ups of Guard and Reserve personnel on employers.

"The Bayh resolution is a good first step in a wholesale assessment of the reserve component," said Howell. "We hope Congress will work with the private sector to provide long-term steps to help America's small business men and women as they support their employees serving our nation."

The Chamber also applauded Bayh's resolution for highlighting the difference the business community has made in supporting our troops – such as providing healthcare benefits to reservists and their families.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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05-27