The RESTORE Act would create a Department of Defense review board to examine religious accommodation requests related to the COVID-19 vaccine and review the records of service members who filed such requests and remained in service. The board would assess whether requests were handled consistently with the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and whether careers were harmed. It could order record corrections, promotions, restored pay and benefits, or other corrective actions for eligible members. The bill also requires reports to Congress and an independent audit by the Department of Defense Inspector General.
Service members who filed religious accommodation requests could ask for a review if they believe their records or career progress were harmed. The board would review the records of members who sought an accommodation specifically for the COVID-19 vaccine and remained in service. The bill also allows reinstatement for eligible members who left service after an accommodation denial later found unlawful.
The bill authorizes whatever funding is necessary to carry it out but does not specify an amount.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.