RESOURCES

ESGR provides a variety of resources for employers and Service members to further understanding and compliance to the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act (USERRA), including Ombudsman services, and employer outreach, through a network of DoD volunteers available throughout the country.

Proactive employer programs include outreach directed towards known employers of the Guard and Reserve, as identified by the Civilian Employment Information (CEI) initiative through the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel & Readiness. To that end, ESGR conducts the Statement of Support Program. ESGR also conducts an award program designed to recognize employers for employment policies and practices that are supportive of their employees' participation in the National Guard and Reserve. All employer recognition and awards originate from nominations by individual Reserve component members (see Online Forms section).

The primary means of assistance in preventing, resolving, or reducing employer and/or employee problems and misunderstandings that result from National Guard or Reserve membership is done through a nationwide Ombudsman Program. The Ombudsman Services Program provides information, informal mediation, and referral service to resolve employer conflicts. ESGR is not an enforcement agency and does not offer legal counsel or advice. ESGR also does not have statutory authority to participate in any formal litigation process.

ESGR also provides a toolkit of resources for employers and Service members pertaining to sample military leave policies and USERRA training.

FAQ for EMPLOYERS:

Questions and Answers for Employers and Employees who participate in the National Guard and Reserve

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) is codified in title 38, United States Code, sections 4301-4333 (38 U.S.C. 4301-4333). The complete text of USERRA is available on this web site.
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TIPS for EMPLOYERS:

Each employer has a role in maintaining a strong national defense. Today, the National Guard and Reserve are an integral part of our defense forces. More than half of the men and women serving in our armed forces are members of the National Guard and Reserve. Their performance must meet the same standards as their Active duty counterparts. However, since they do not serve full-time, the cost to the government is far less. As an employer, you are vital to enabling your employees who are members of the National Guard and Reserve to serve their country. Moreover, your active support and encouragement are key to their success. Here are some suggestions on how to help them help us all:
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TIPS for MILITARY:

Tips for National Guard and Reserve Members: Avoiding Job Conflicts

Most employment conflicts can be avoided by being candid with your employer about your obligations as a member of one of the Reserve components. Don't take your employer's support for granted. Keep your boss informed about what you do in the military and when you do it. Let your boss know the vital mission that is supported by your participation in the National Guard or Reserve. Let your boss know how your military experience and training will make you a more capable civilian employee. Take time to recognize the sacrifice your boss and co-workers make when they support you. Here's a summary of advice from ESGR on how to keep the boss on your side:
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