Louisiana State Guard
Several newly introduced bills in Louisiana are reinforcing and expanding the authority, recognition, and operational structure of the Louisiana State Guard. House Bill 274 repositions the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) under the Louisiana Military Department, which formally includes the State Guard, placing its leadership under the Adjutant General and reinforcing its active role in emergency management. House Bill 608 creates the Louisiana Atmospheric Protection Act and mandates that if the Louisiana National Guard is federalized, the Governor must activate the State Guard to defend Louisiana airspace. Additionally, House Bill 120 enhances death and disability benefits for State Guard members, streamlines the claims process, and strengthens protections for service members against employment and educational penalties during periods of activation. Together, these bills solidify the Louisiana State Guard’s operational and legal status while expanding its responsibilities and support systems.
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Maryland Defense Force
Maryland is taking major legislative steps to elevate and support the Maryland Defense Force (MDF). House Bill 1060 redefines the term “veteran” to include MDF members, granting them access to key benefits such as legal protections, lease safeguards, and eligibility for veteran programs. Senate Bill 419 increases the state income tax subtraction for qualifying public safety volunteers, including MDF members, recognizing their uncompensated service with a higher tax benefit. Senate Bill 309 develops a new online registry under the Department of Veterans and Military Families that allows MDF personnel to self-identify and receive ongoing updates and benefits-related outreach. House Bill 548, the “Defend the Guard Act,” limits the deployment of MDF and National Guard troops to federal combat unless Congress formally declares war, while granting State Active Duty personnel the full authority of law enforcement officers, including the ability to direct local law enforcement when necessary. These legislative actions demonstrate Maryland’s commitment to institutionalizing MDF service and integrating its personnel more fully into the state’s military and public safety framework.
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Mississippi State Guard
Mississippi legislation is also acknowledging and protecting its State Guard through multiple proposed bills. House Bill 255 permits members of the Mississippi State Guard and other militia forces to use their service status as a legal defense if charged under state firearm laws while performing official duties, effectively safeguarding their right to carry and use weapons during authorized missions. House Bill 447 supports professional advancement for State Guard members by requiring licensing boards to accept military education and experience—including that of state and naval militia members—as valid credentials for occupational licensing. This ensures that service members, including those in the Mississippi State Guard’s naval militia component, can more easily transition into civilian careers and apply their training in professional settings. These legislative developments recognize the value of the Mississippi State Guard while expanding legal and professional protections for its members.
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