Legislation could impact Wyo. servicemembers Published Jan. 27, 2011 By By 1st Lt. Brooke Brzozowske 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, WYO -- Local servicemembers gathered together for a Military Legislative Initiatives Briefing at the Joint Forces Readiness Center Auditorium here Jan. 24. The briefing was given by Jackie Harriman, Western Region State Liaison, and Department of Defense employee who helps educate citizens on how state laws impact military members. "Military members and spouses can face many challenges with movements and deployments, but some we can address through state policy," Ms. Harriman said. The purpose of the briefing was to inform leadership and spouses, about the four upcoming pieces of legislation to be introduced in Wyoming this session, specifically those that will have an impact on the military, explained Mary Brown, 90th Missile Wing Airmen and Family Readiness Center. The four pieces of legislation are: - Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunities for Military Children - Child Custody Laws (as they pertain to deployments) - Predatory Lending Laws - Licensure Portability (transferability of licenses across state lines -- for spouses making a permanent change of station) "With the Interstate Compact, it is our goal to minimize school disruption for military children during transitions and deployment," Ms. Harriman said. "Many children are charged absences during deployment departures or homecomings, time that guardians may want to be spent with family. This bill will address this issue and several others that come along with education and military movements." During the briefing, Ms. Harriman also mentioned statistics showing that military spouses are often underemployed and underpaid. Frequent moves and different license requirements can contribute to stunted careers. "The Licensure Portability bill will improve the occupational licensing process for military spouses, separated and retired servicemembers," she said. "We want to facilitate transition, and create a process to address the issues that may impede those from working as soon as possible. "Ultimately, we're here to educate, provide alternatives and help create policy to protect servicemembers," ended Ms. Harriman. "We want to empower people who want to help, and show them how to help." For more information on the passed and upcoming, local legislation bills, please visit http://www.usa4militaryfamilies.osd.mil or the 90th Airman and Family Readiness Center at 773-5943.