Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)

The USERRA applies to persons who perform duty, voluntarily or involuntarily, in the uniformed services. Under this act, employers generally must reemploy employees who return from service in the uniformed service unless the military service exceeded five years. There are exceptions to the five-year limit, including employees affected by involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. Upon their reemployment, the USERRA further guarantees these individuals any pension plan benefits that accrued during their military service. The act also provides health benefits continuation for service members and their families during military service for up to 24 months.