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Earlier today, Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) received The Association of the United States Navy National Legislative Advocacy Award for his “superb leadership and outstanding service during the 110th and 111th Congress to improve the quality of life of Active Component and Reserve Component military members and their families.”  

During the 110th and 111th Congress, Congressman Latta introduced standalone legislation, H.R. 270, The TRICARE Continuity Coverage for National Guard and Reserve Families Act, which is language that allows retired members of National Guard and reserve units with 20 or more years of faithful and honorable service to purchase healthcare that was available to them during their time in active service or after they reach 60 years of age.  Currently, members who have retired but are not yet 60 years of age are not eligible for TRICARE, and are referred to as being in the “gray area.”  Right now there are approximately 220,000 retirees that fall within the “gray area” and an additional 12,100 service members retiring and entering this status each year.

Congressman Latta’s TRICARE language was amended into the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2010 where the House of Representatives has approved the Conference Committee Report.  The Senate is expected to approve the report in the near future, and it will then be sent to President Obama for his signature.  

Allison Witt, Legislative Director for Congressman Latta, was also recognized by The Association of the United States Navy with the 2008-2009 Legislative Advocacy Award for her work at the staff level to advance the TRICARE Continuity Coverage for National Guard and Reserve Families Act.  Earlier this month, Witt received the 2009 Freedom Award from The Military Coalition for her work on the TRICARE legislation as well.   
 
“I am humbled and honored to receive this award.  Reservists who have retired from service deserve access to the health care that was provided during their service.  Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to our nation’s reservists and this is just one way to show our appreciation to them and their families for their sacrifices,” Congressman Latta said after today’s award ceremony.