The bill, S.B. No. 635, aims to provide supplemental pay for members of the Texas military forces who experience economic hardship due to their military service. It amends Sections 437.220(a), (b), and (c) of the Government Code to replace references to the "National Guard" with "military forces," thereby broadening the eligibility for supplemental pay to all members of the Texas military forces. The bill stipulates that individuals called to military duty who suffer economic hardship are eligible for supplemental pay, contingent on the availability of funds.
Additionally, the bill establishes a supplemental military duty pay account within the general revenue fund, which can be funded through appropriations, gifts, and grants. The amount of supplemental pay a member can receive is capped at the lesser of the amount needed to alleviate their economic hardship or the difference between their lost civilian income and their military pay. The changes will apply to military duty occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Government Code 437.220 (Government Code 437)