Central ND News

The United States is facing shortages in its civilian defense and national security workforce, particularly in cybersecurity. To address this issue, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) has introduced the Defense Workforce Integration Act alongside Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mike Rounds (R-SD), who are members of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

This bipartisan legislation aims to strengthen the civilian defense workforce by utilizing existing programs within the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). The bill seeks to retain individuals who wish to serve in uniform but are medically disqualified from military duty.

Senator Cramer stated, "Our civilian defense and national security workforce mightily contribute to the safety and security of the country." He emphasized that many Americans have valuable skills and a desire to serve but are medically disqualified from military careers. The bill aims to streamline hiring for these candidates to preserve talent and fill vacant positions.

Senator Shaheen highlighted that the DOD invests significant resources into training recruits who may later be disqualified for medical reasons that do not prevent them from contributing to national security. She noted, "Our bipartisan, bicameral bill provides opportunities for these individuals—who have already stepped up to serve their nation—to still contribute to America’s national security."

Senator Rounds added, "Medical issues might prevent some patriotic Americans from active military service, but it doesn’t have to prevent them from finding other ways to serve our country." The legislation would help transition medically disqualified individuals into federal civilian roles within the DOD.

The bill directs the DOD to inform those medically disqualified during initial evaluations about civilian employment opportunities in areas such as cybersecurity, intelligence, research and development of defense technologies, and more. It also expands Air Force best practices by establishing Army and Navy equivalents for transitioning personnel into civilian roles.

Additionally, existing Navy transition assistance programs will be leveraged to expand awareness of critical civilian roles at Military Sealift Command.

U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Angus King (I-ME) cosigned the bill. A companion measure was introduced in the House by Representatives Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) and Joe Courtney (D-CT-02).