The nation’s governors are seeking President Trump’s OK to continue using National Guard troops during state reopenings.
In a letter to the White House shared with Secrets, the National Governors Association said, “As states and territories move toward recovery and reopening, our National Guard will be critical in supporting operations such as testing, distribution of personal protective equipment, supply and food chain support, augmenting staff at nursing homes, and supporting warehouse operations.”
The group added, “Our National Guard are perfectly positioned to support the federally defined core state preparedness responsibilities outlined in your Guidelines for Opening Up America Again.”
At issue is extending the Title 32 provisions giving states the authority to activate the Guard and to pay salary and expenses. It is typically used for national disasters.
According to Military.com: “Activation under Title 32 U.S.C. means that your state’s governor has been authorized or directed by the president to mobilize or activate the National Guard in your state. You perform on active duty under state control, but with pay and benefits provided by the federal government. As long as your Title 32 orders are for more than 30, you are still entitled to the same federal benefits as someone activated under Title 10 orders.”
