**Last week, Rep. Kuster introduced H.R. 6980, the National Guard COVID-19 Response Stability Act, which would ensure Guard members receive benefits for their service, and allow governors to extend National Guard deployments through the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency**

Today, Rep. Kuster released the following statement on President Trump’s announcement that he will extend the National Guard deployments for COVID-19 response and recovery efforts through mid-August:

“I am pleased that President Trump heeded the call of Democrats and Republicans to extend the deployment of our National Guard as we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Across New Hampshire, our brave citizen soldiers and airmen play a critical role in addressing the health and economic crisis caused by this virus by supporting COVID-19 testing efforts, processing unemployment claims, and partnering with food banks to feed families in need. 

“We must ensure that our National Guard troops receive the benefits they have earned through their service, and I was proud to help lead the charge in Congress to get this done by introducing the National Guard COVID-19 Response Stability Act. President Trump’s decision to cut these deployments short was wrong, and I am glad to see that he has reversed course. The extension he announced today will provide certainty and support for communities across the nation through the summer.” 

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