For Immediate Release: October 27, 2008

Sutton Statement on the Army’s Continued Use of Stop Loss

WASHINGTON, DC - Despite pledges that it would reduce its reliance on stop loss, the Pentagon's policy to forcibly prolong a soldier's service beyond their enlistment, the army has announced it will likely continue the practice through 2009. Today, Congresswoman Betty Sutton (D-OH), who spearheaded the effort to compensate soldiers affected by this policy, released the following statement:

"I am disappointed to hear that the Pentagon will continue to rely on its stop loss policy to force our brave troops to serve additional tours of duty. I have heard firsthand from soldiers about the emotional and financial strain these extended deployments place on them and their families. They can be assured that I will carry on the fight to fairly compensate them for their continued sacrifice. I am proud that along with Senator Frank Lautenberg, we were able to secure an additional $500 a month for our brave soldiers who are being sent to Iraq and Afghanistan again and again under stop loss. But this is by no means a cure-all, and even Defense Secretary Gates has said that the army needs to reduce its reliance on this policy. Instead of forcing our soldiers to serve past their enlistment contracts, the army should focus on recruitment by increasing support for policies such as improved educational benefits, helping our service members transition back to civilian life and begin successful careers," said Congresswoman Sutton.

Last month, Congress passed the Continuing Resolution, which included stop loss compensation at a level of $500 per month for fiscal year 2009. This provision was based on Congresswoman Sutton and Senator Lautenberg's legislation, the Stop-Loss Compensation Act, (H.R. 6205 and S. 3060). The provision also requires the Secretary of Defense to perform a feasibility studyon extending the $500 bonus to troops stop-lossed as far back as October 1, 2001.

Contact: Erin Donar at 202-225-3401 or Erin.Donar@mail.house.gov