This bill, requested by the Department of Military Affairs, aims to revise the compensation structure for enlisted militia members on state active duty by removing the existing 15-day limitation on their pay. Currently, enlisted members receive pay at rates equivalent to twice those allowed for their corresponding grade and length of service for the first 15 days of active duty, after which they revert to the standard federal service pay rates. The proposed amendment will allow enlisted members to receive the higher pay rate for the entirety of their active duty service, thereby enhancing their compensation during state emergencies.
Additionally, the bill amends Section 10-1-502 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to reflect these changes and includes a provision for an immediate effective date upon passage and approval. This legislative change is intended to better support enlisted members of the militia by ensuring they are adequately compensated for their service during state emergencies or disasters.
Statutes affected: LC Text: 10-1-502