Summary of HR 2200

Bill Number: HR 2200

Title: To amend title 14, United States Code, to require the retention of certain enlisted members of the Coast Guard who have completed 18 or more, but less than 20, years of service, and for other purposes.

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced Date: March 18, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 2200 is to amend the United States Code to ensure that enlisted members of the Coast Guard who are nearing retirement eligibility are retained on active duty. Specifically, this bill targets those who have completed between 18 and 20 years of service, providing them with additional job security as they approach retirement.

Key Provisions

HR 2200 introduces significant changes to the retention policies for enlisted members of the Coast Guard:

1. Retention of Active Duty Members:

   • Enlisted members of the Regular Coast Guard selected for involuntary separation or denied reenlistment, and who are within two years of qualifying for retirement (i.e., 20 years of service), must be retained on active duty until they qualify for retirement, unless they are retired or discharged under other legal provisions.

2. Coast Guard Reserve Provisions:

   • Enlisted members of the Coast Guard Reserve in active status who are selected for involuntary separation or denied reenlistment (excluding cases of physical disability or cause) and who have between 18 and 20 years of service, cannot be discharged or transferred without their consent until they reach 20 years of service or until specified anniversaries based on their current years of service:
     • If the member has 18-19 years of service, retention is required until they reach 20 years or the third anniversary of their discharge date.
     • If the member has 19-20 years of service, retention is required until they reach 20 years or the second anniversary of their discharge date.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Enlisted Members of the Coast Guard: Those who have served between 18 and 20 years and are facing involuntary separation or denial of reenlistment.
- Coast Guard Reserve Members: Similar protections apply to reservists in active status.

Legislative Actions

• March 18, 2025: The bill was introduced in the House and referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation as well as the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Sponsors

HR 2200 has multiple cosponsors, indicating a broad base of support. Notable sponsors include:
- Chrissy Houlahan
- Wesley Bell
- Robert J. Wittman
- Donald G. Davis
- James C. Moylan
- Jack Bergman
- Seth Moulton
- Jill N. Tokuda
- Michael R. Turner
- Brad Finstad
- Marilyn Strickland
- Jason Crow

Related Bills

• S 1857: This bill serves as a companion to HR 2200, suggesting parallel legislative efforts in the Senate.

Conclusion

HR 2200 seeks to enhance the job security of enlisted members of the Coast Guard who are nearing retirement eligibility. By amending existing laws to require their retention, the bill aims to provide stability for service members during a critical transition period in their military careers.