Rep. Stansbury Introduces Legislation to Clarify Treatment of Military Retirement Pay

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) introduced the Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act to expand benefits for veteran railroad workers. This legislation would amend the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act (RUIA) to clarify the treatment of military retirement pay in relation to unemployment and sickness benefits.

“We must always support our veterans. Our service members and their families sacrificed for our freedoms, and it is paramount that we do everything in our power to ensure they have access to resources and benefits through their service to our country,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “New Mexico is home to approximately 140,000 veterans, representing about 10% of our state’s population. It is crucial that we support our veterans during periods of job loss and uncertainty. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this vital legislation. Together we can ensure that our policies reflect our values—honoring our brave veterans while also protecting those who depend on insurance as a safety net.”

“On behalf of the 838,000 active and retired members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, I thank U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury for introducing the Veterans Benefits Enhancement Act. The act aims to correct current regulations that deny critical benefits to veterans who receive military retirement pay,” said Kenneth W. Cooper, IBEW International President. “Railroad workers, many of whom are veterans, deserve fair treatment when they experience injuries on the job. By amending the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, this proposal will repair an unintended injustice faced by those who have served our country and now perform vital work on our nation’s railways. The IBEW strongly supports this effort to protect the rights of all railroaders and urges swift action by Congress.”

Key Provisions of the Legislation:

• Exclusion of Military Retirement Pay: The amendment will explicitly state that military retirement pay will not be considered a social insurance payment.

• Clarification of Benefit Calculations: By redefining what constitutes “other social insurance payments,” the amendment provides clarity for both the Railroad Retirement Board and beneficiaries.

Read the bill here.

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