Congressman Pappas Statement on President Trump’s Announcement to Extend National Guard Mobilization

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after President Trump announced that he would extend the mobilization of National Guard members aiding in the COVID-19 response:

"Members of the National Guard are deployed on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19, and we are deeply grateful for their service," said Congressman Pappas. "It was unconscionable that there was any question about whether these deployments would continue or whether Guard members risking their safety to respond to this crisis might be denied benefits they have earned. I joined a bipartisan call for President Trump and the Department of Defense to take this action, and I'm pleased that they have listened. This will ensure ensuring that the crucial response efforts underway will be uninterrupted and that we will honor the service of the members of the National Guard."

The National Guard has played a key role in supporting New Hampshire's COVID-19 response, including delivering PPE to essential workers, assisting with testing and contact tracing, staffing the call center at the Department of Employment Security, and providing assistance to the New Hampshire Food Bank and their mobile food pantry program.

Congressman Pappas is an original co-sponsor of legislation that would extend the current federal duty status for the NationalGuard until 30 days after the end of the public health emergency. He is also an original co-sponsor of legislation that would automatically grant benefits to anyone who served full-time National Guard duty in response to COVID-19.

Congressman Pappas joined members of Congress in writing to Defense Secretary Mark Esper urging him to consult with America's governors and extend the Section 502(f) authorizations for the duration of the President's emergency and disaster declarations.