[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 110 (Wednesday, September 15, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1634]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         INTRODUCTION OF THE RESERVISTS' EMPLOYMENT ACT OF 2004

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                            HON. JIM SAXTON

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 15, 2004

  Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Reservists' 
Employment Act of 2004. Due to the limited time commitment typical of 
an inactive reserve member, most of these men and women sustain full-
time careers outside of their military service. Although many of them 
serve their country in federal service positions, most of our 
reservists are employed by private industry. While most employers 
should be familiar with the responsibilities of our reservists, the War 
on Terror has greatly altered the nature of activation, and, in most 
cases, increased the frequency of deployment.
  Since the War on Terror began, the fundamental organization of our 
reserves has changed dramatically and will continue to do so as the war 
progresses. With increasing unpredictability in deployment, the 
stability of a reservist's participation in their civilian jobs has too 
been altered. As many employers rely heavily on their reservist 
employees, their temporary absence often proves detrimental to these 
businesses. Although current law prohibits employers from terminating 
these reservists during activation, this provision does not correct the 
potential uncertainties employers may harvest regarding the 
capabilities of a reservist employee.
  During their tenure in the armed forces, our reservists acquire 
several personal attributes that private employers find imperative in 
today's business world. While serving in the armed services, these men 
and women consistently demonstrate a high level of adaptability; the 
ability to work within a team; a strong work ethic; and, more often 
than not, exemplary leadership qualities.
  Alongside these attributes, these men and women further illustrate 
their dedication and hard work by sustaining both reservist and 
civilian employment simultaneously. Given their exemplary character and 
training, we cannot give private industry any justification for not 
hiring these men and women. As some of the most well trained and 
productive members of our workforce, our reservists' credentials should 
promote their employment, not inhibit it.
  In response to the need to preserve private industry opportunities 
for our reservists, and, to further support their employers, I am 
honored to introduce the Reservists' Employment Act of 2004. It is my 
strong belief that our reservists provide some of the most valuable 
service both within and outside of our armed services. Now more than 
ever, we must show our support for their dedication, and, in turn, 
those private industries that support our troops.

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