Senate Gives Final Approval on Portions of Governor’s Operation Home Front Initiative

State Senators gave final approval Thursday morning to legislation that will provide a $250,000 life insurance policy for members of the Oklahoma National Guard and Air National Guard.

Senator Randy Bass, D-Lawton, said the measure now goes to the House where approval will send it to the desk of Governor Brad Henry.

“Oklahoma guardsmen are now just two small steps away from being able to provide greater financial security for their families when they are called upon to put their lives on the line in defense of our nation and freedom around the globe,” said Bass, chairman of the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and Senate author of the measure.

Bass said Senate Bill 821 is part of Governor Brad Henry’s Operation Home Front Initiative, which also includes a state income tax reduction for guard members.

“We must honor those who serve our country and defend freedom,” Bass said. “This legislation does that by making sure the families of those Oklahomans who are killed in the line of duty are treated with the utmost respect.”

Bass said in order to make tomorrow better for our children, military issues will always be among his top priorities. Bass serves on the Oklahoma Strategic Military Planning Commission and represents the senate district that includes Fort Sill, who just recently received word from the Pentagon that the Army post will gain 3,600 military personnel through the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process.

“I am committed to sending a message to our troops that we honor their service through this bill that provides additional financial security for their families,” Bass said. “I am pleased Senate Bill 821 passed out of the Senate today because I believe this measure sends that message loud and clear.”