Story by Beaver County Radio News Correspondent Sandy Giordano
(Harrisburg, Pa.) The Wolf Administration is being supported by U.S. Senator Bob Casey and U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlihan to urge the federal government to reauthorize Title 32. At a press briefing yesterday morning it was announced that if the title is reauthorized it would allow the PA Army National
Guard to carry out missions that assist long-term facilities affected by the COVID-19 including supporting community-based testing sites, distributing meals to millions in need in the state, and aiding the frontline health care workers who provide care to COVID-19 patients in long-term facilities.” Senator Casey said he urges the Trump Administration to renew the federal Title 32 authorization for the PA Army National Guard to streamline pay and benefits for guardsmen and their families. He added, “As the nation expects spikes in theCOVID-19 pandemic in the coming months the renewal is much needed to ensure that the National Guard is able to support efforts to keep our citizens safe .
Without federal authorization, PA would have to consider placing the PA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD on active duty , and the state would be financially responsible. The authorization provides more protection for the guardsmen for healthcare and benefits. Rep. Houlihan said the PA National Guard has been on the frontlines of this pandemic, and it is clear it is not yet over.”