Peace Garden News

The United States is facing shortages in its civilian defense and national security workforce, with cybersecurity being a particularly affected area. To address this issue, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) has collaborated with U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mike Rounds (R-SD), all members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, to introduce the Defense Workforce Integration Act.

This bipartisan legislation aims to enhance the civilian defense workforce by utilizing existing programs within the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). The goal is to retain talented individuals who wish to serve in uniform but are medically disqualified from military service.

Senator Cramer emphasized the importance of the civilian defense workforce, stating, “Our civilian defense and national security workforce mightily contribute to the safety and security of the country.” He added that many Americans are disqualified from military duty for medical reasons yet possess valuable skills and a desire to serve. The proposed bill seeks to streamline hiring processes for these candidates, preserving talent and filling essential positions.

Senator Shaheen noted that significant resources are often invested in training military recruits who later become medically disqualified. She said, “Our bipartisan, bicameral bill provides opportunities for these individuals—who have already stepped up to serve their nation—to still contribute to America’s national security by increasing awareness and accessibility of careers in the civilian defense workforce.”

Senator Rounds highlighted that medical issues should not prevent patriotic Americans from serving their country in other capacities. He stated, “The Defense Workforce Integration Act would help individuals who want to serve their country but are disqualified from military service for medical reasons transition into federal civilian roles within the Department of Defense.”

The bill directs DOD personnel managers to inform medically disqualified applicants about civilian employment opportunities in areas such as cybersecurity, intelligence, research and development of defense technologies, and disaster preparedness. It also expands existing Air Force practices by establishing similar programs for the Army and Navy.

Additionally, it leverages Navy transition assistance programs to increase awareness of critical civilian roles at Military Sealift Command.

U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Angus King (I-ME) have cosigned the bill. A companion measure was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) and Joe Courtney (D-CT-02).