Rep. Kline’s Yellow Ribbon legislation included in NDAA Conference Report
Washington, D.C. – Minnesota Second District Congressman John Kline ensured a nationwide expansion of the Minnesota National Guard’s “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” reintegration program was included in the National Defense Authorization Act conference report, which was agreed upon this week.
Kline, who was appointed to the bipartisan, bicameral conference committee responsible for reconciling differences between House and Senate versions of the bill that will serve as the budgetary blueprint for the Pentagon, signed the report last night. The NDAA conference report will be voted on by Congress later this week.
Earlier this year, Kline ensured his “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” legislation was included in the national defense bill that passed the House of Representatives in May, just days before thousands of Minnesota Guard members deployed to Kuwait and Iraq for “Operation New Dawn,” the final phase of “Iraqi Freedom.”
“It is only fitting that today – on the 375th birthday of the National Guard – we ensure all of our troops receive the support and assistance they need when they return home to their families, communities, and jobs,” said Kline, a 25-year veteran of the Marine Corps whose son has served three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. “It is an honor and a privilege to play a direct role in crafting and passing legislation that supports our troops, veterans, and their families.”
The Yellow Ribbon initiative is a unique combat veteran reintegration program focused on supporting soldiers and their families throughout the entire deployment cycle.
This multifaceted program includes workshops to help prepare family members for their soldier’s return and training events at 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day intervals for soldiers following their demobilization.
Last year, Kline offered improvements to the NDAA that help ensure veterans don’t fall through the administrative cracks; increase awareness among communities and local organizations; promote a greater emphasis on families; and encourage families to participate in reintegration programs. Kline first introduced Yellow Ribbon legislation in 2007.
Also included in the NDAA conference report was Kline’s provision to eliminate the Armed Forces’ use of quotas that unfairly discriminate against aspiring military recruits who earn a high school diploma from nontraditional sources, including charter schools, online schools, and home schools.
Kline’s legislation ensures fair recruiting and selection policies for enlistments are in step with evolving education opportunities.
In his fifth term, Congressman John Kline serves on the House Armed Services Committee. He is also the Chairman of the Education and the Workforce Committee.
