AK SJR16

The Pentagon requested $487 billion in defense budget cuts over 10 years, which prompted recommendations to substantially change military retirement benefits.

The Defense Business Board proposed converting military pensions from a 20-year vesting system to a 401(k)-style arrangement where service members would not receive payments until age 60-65.

Alaska Legislature supports allowing armed forces members to keep their current 20-year retirement benefit as promised when they enlisted.

Alaska Legislature urges Congress to pass H.R. 3520, the Keeping Our Promises Act of 2011, which would allow service members to choose between the current retirement plan or the new system.

Resolution directs copies be sent to federal officials including President Obama, Vice President Biden, Congressional leaders, and Alaska's congressional delegation.