Before adjourning, both the House and Senate approved with unanimous support S. 3197, the "National Guard and Reservists Debt Relief Act." The bill now goes to the President for his signature. The legislation would exempt certain qualifying reserve component members of the Armed Services and National Guard members form the means test's presumption of abuse if a petition is filed within 540 days after they complete active duty. The bill responds to the fact that some who serve in the National Guard and the Reserves encounter financial difficulties and that they should not be subject to the additional proof requirements of the means test.

The bill originated in the House and was sponsored by Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D, IL) and had 66 cosponsors, including both Republicans and Democrats. Senator Dick Durbin (D, IL) sponsored the bill in the Senate. Special recognition goes to NACBA Board Member Ed Boltz who served as a resource to the sponsors of the bill and traveled to Washington to testify in support of the measure. NACBA Member Jim Wherry, our military liaison, also deserves recognition for the role he played in providing critical input on the special circumstances facing servicemen and women. Thanks to Ed and Jim for their efforts.

A copy of the final legislation will be posted on the NACBA website when it becomes available.