Ernst-Supported Provision to Restore Servicemember Back Pay Passes Senate

WASHINGTON – Today, the Senate unanimously approved a bill that U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran and retired Lieutenant Colonel, supported to provide back pay for military officers whose promotions were held up in the Senate.

Ernst co-led the Military Personnel Confirmation Restoration (MPCR) Act. The individuals who lost out on pay will be eligible for a retroactive date to receive payments, benefits, and allowances for the pay grade they were initially appointed to, amounting to tens of thousands of dollars in earned benefits for some families.

“Our servicemembers are not political pawns, but their livelihoods and the lives of their families were held up for months, through no fault of their own,” Ernst said. “At a time when our military is facing historic recruiting shortages, it is essential our nation not waver in its support of those who selflessly serve. Now, the Senate has taken action, and we are one step closer to restoring the pay our dedicated servicemen and women earned with their promotions.”

Ernst has been a strong advocate of promoting military men and women with a history of dedicated service to our country to provide necessary leadership in the face of growing threats and certainty for servicemembers and their families.

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