Kiggans teams with Democrats to introduce bill aimed at strengthening civilian defense workforce opportunities

Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) on Thursday introduced the Defense Workforce Integration Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill designed to establish civilian service pathways for individuals medically disqualified from military service.

The legislation was introduced in the House alongside Representatives Joe Courtney (CT-02), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) introduced a companion bill in the Senate.

The bill seeks to increase access to civilian defense jobs for individuals who, despite being medically disqualified from military enlistment, are otherwise capable of contributing to national defense. The aim is to enhance the civilian defense workforce and provide alternative service options within the Department of Defense.

Congresswoman Kiggans stated that tens of thousands of Americans are disqualified annually for medical reasons unrelated to their ability to serve in other capacities. She emphasized the legislation’s role in creating meaningful career paths in support of national security.

Senator Shaheen noted that many disqualifications occur after significant investment in recruit training and highlighted the bill’s potential to address staffing shortages at facilities such as the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Senator Rounds added that the bill would provide medically disqualified individuals with alternative means of service through federal civilian roles within the Department of Defense.