CAMP MABRY, Texas (May30, 2013) - Members if the Texas Military Forces remain committed to supporting the State of Texas, if called into service by Gov. Perry, despite a May 14, 2013, Department of Defense (DoD) announcement mandating furloughs for the federal civil service workforce.

 

"The Department of Defence has directed the Texas Army and Air National Guard to institue furloughs for both military technicians and non-military technicians who are employed to prepare the Texas National Guard for State and federal missions." said Col. Amy F. Cook, state public affairs officer. "Notices are being distributed today toaffected employees, and furlough days are expected to begin in early July, unless Congress overrides the sequestration provision in the federal budget or provides local, budget-management flexibility."

 

"The affected employees will be in an unpaid, furlough status for 11 non-consecutive days between July and September," Cook said. "effectively, a 20 percent reduction in pay through the end of the current federal fiscal year."

 

Together, the Texas Army and Air National Guard have more than 22,000 members, ten percent are expected to be furloughed, which may result in degrades maintenance and curtailment of critical training, including aviation readiness, which could negatively affect essential capabilities the state officials and first responders rely on in disaster situations.

 

"The components of the Texas Military Forces operate in a fiscally responsible fashion- with booth our state and federal resources," said Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols, The Adjutnant General of Texas. "Regardless of personnel constraints imposed at the national-level, we stand ready to support the Governor of Texas during any time of need."

 

The DoD-mandated furlough is not expected to impact traditional members of the National Guard, who typically drill one weekend per month and two weeks a year.