Press Release
U.S. Department of Justice
United States Attorney
District of Hawaii
PJKK Federal Building (808) 541-2850
300 Ala Moana Blvd., Room 6-100 FAX (808) 541-2958
Honolulu, Hawaii 96850
For Immediate Release
P R E S S R E L E A S E
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
(USERRA)
United States Attorney Ed Kubo stated today that all employers of individuals who are with the National Guard or Reserves should be aware of their rights and obligations under the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).
In the United States, there are approximately 1.35 million Guard or Reservists, who serve their country with the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. Of that number, approximately 12,000 are Guard or Reservists living in Hawaii. These individuals come from our civilian population, and are employed by a multitude of Hawaii businesses.
USERRA is a federal law which applies to all employers, no matter how many employees they may have. This law prohibits the discrimination against employees because of their service to our country. This law also intends to minimize the disruption that such service may cause both employees and employers.
Kubo said that under USERRA, a National Guard or Reservist must not be denied initial employment, re-employment upon return from service, promotion, or any benefit of employment on the basis of his/her membership or obligation in the uniformed service, including during a period of war or national emergency.
"Therefore, because of the uncertainty of events facing us internationally, it is important that employers be aware of their responsibilities and duties with regard to employees who have been, or may be activated."
To this extent, the U.S. Attorney's Office has produced a publication, entitled: "Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act."
"If you are a Guard or Reservist, or if you are an employer of one, this pamphlet on USERRA will give you a better understanding as to what your rights and obligations are under federal law," Kubo said.
If you would like a copy of this booklet, either call the U.S. Attorney's Office at 541-2850 to request a copy, or you may write to them at:
USERRA PUBLICATION
c/o U.S. Attorney's Office
Federal Building, Suite 6100
Honolulu, Hawaii 96850