Issue Position: Fort Bragg

Issue Position

"Fort Bragg is not only essential to the defense of America, but is a major economic engine for our region and state. I'll continue to work hard for Veterans, our active duty military forces and their families and to protect Fort Bragg." - Rep John Szoka

Both John and his wife, Laurie, are retired Army Veterans and truly understand the challenges faced by todays soldiers and their families. His commitment to soldiers is exemplified by the passage of the first bill he sponsored shortly after election to the Legislature, H19 Respect Our Fallen Heroes. This bill extended the time and distance from military funerals that "protestors" had to keep. Since the passage of this bill in 2013 there have been no negative, offensive demonstrations at funerals of military members.

With approximately 8,000 highly trained soldiers retiring or ETS'ing from Fort Bragg every year, it's important to assist them in finding employment in the civilian community. Sponsored by Rep Szoka in 2013, H322 CDL Requirements/Military Experience gives credit on the North Carolina Commercial Drivers License (CDL) test to soldiers for truck driving experience they acquired during military service. Since passage of this bill over 730 former service members have taken advantage of this opportunity, acquired their Commercial Drivers License and taken high paying jobs in the civilian economy. Taking this idea further this past session, the legislature passed other laws giving soldiers constructive credit for military experience in comparable civilian jobs ranging from law enforcement to health care.

Rep Szoka has been deeply involved in many other military related laws ranging from protecting military bases from encroachment by over-development; to extending TRICARE Supplemental insurance to retired service members now serving in state government saving them thousands of dollar every year in health care premiums; to supporting the North Carolina National Guard. Representative Szoka was presented the NC National Guard Civilian Commendation Medal my MG Lusk, Commander of the North Carolina National Guard, for outstanding civilian service to the State and the North Carolina National Guard during the 2014-15 Legislative Session.

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