Armed Forces Retirement Home Act of 1991

From USApedia

The Armed Forces Retirement Home Act of 1991 is a U.S. federal law, officially known as Public Law 101-510, which was enacted to consolidate and modernize the governance and funding of retirement homes for military veterans.

Background

Before this act, two separate institutions, the U.S. Naval Home and the U.S. Soldiers' and Airmen's Home, provided residential care for retired military personnel. The act aimed to merge these into a single entity to streamline administration and funding.

Key Provisions

Establishment of the Armed Forces Retirement Home

  • It established the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) as an independent agency within the Executive Branch of the U.S. government.

Consolidation of Existing Homes

  • The act merged the U.S. Naval Home in Gulfport, Mississippi, and the U.S. Soldiers’ and Airmen's Home in Washington, D.C., into the AFRH.

Governance Structure

  • An appointed Board of Directors, including members from various branches of the military and civilian sectors, was set up to oversee operations and policy.

Funding Mechanism

  • The act created the Armed Forces Retirement Home Trust Fund, which is supported by mandatory payroll deductions from active duty personnel, resident fees, fines, forfeitures, and gifts or bequests.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Eligibility was defined for veterans who served honorably, had a certain amount of service, or were disabled due to military service. Specific conditions included:
 * Service members with 20 or more years of active service.
 * Members with a service-connected disability affecting their ability to earn a livelihood.
 * Veterans from war theaters or those eligible for hostile fire pay.

Amendments and Updates

  • Subsequent amendments have adjusted operational details, eligibility criteria, and financial structures to ensure the sustainability and relevance of the AFRH.

Impact

  • The act has provided a more unified and better-funded approach to veteran care, ensuring a higher standard of living for retired military personnel.
  • It has allowed for the modernization of facilities and the expansion of services, including healthcare, recreational activities, and social support.

Current Operations

  • The AFRH operates two campuses - one in Washington, D.C., and another in Gulfport, Mississippi, offering a range of services from independent living to skilled nursing care.

Challenges

  • Financial sustainability remains a challenge, with the AFRH seeking to balance operational costs with funding from the Trust Fund, which can be affected by legislative changes or economic conditions.
  • There's ongoing effort to adapt to the changing demographics of veterans and their needs.

External Links

References

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