Connecticut Military Department warns federal orders and staffing gaps risk readiness; governor's guard debate continues

The Connecticut Military Department told the General Assembly—s Veterans and Military Affairs Committee on Feb. 13 that federal executive orders and long-standing staffing shortfalls are creating near-term readiness and operational challenges for the state—s Guard.

The Adjutant General (name not specified), testifying with legislative liaison Tucker Salls, said "we have about 600 title federal technicians, GS-level technicians" whose employment status and telework rules are being affected by recent executive actions and guidance from the National Guard Bureau and other federal offices. He said the department has issued an order requiring some technicians to return from telework and is working through an exemption process with the National Guard Bureau, the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Office of Management and Budget.

"We were probably at about 50%" of required personnel on a typical day, the Adjutant General said, adding that the department is "always ready and always there." He said the department is seeking federal clarification and pushing at the national level to exempt dual-status uniformed technicians and to preserve Title 5 civilian positions where possible.

Why it matters: Committee members pressed the department for details because many Guard duties require personnel to be mission-ready on short notice. Lawmakers said unclear notice and short timelines for actions such as early-retirement offers could harm retention and give members insufficient…