A policy that ensures former military spouses have rights and support as well. I personally served beside my former military spouse for 17 years and was given zero say so/support/resources during/after our divorce, including any/No portion of his retirement.
Here’s a draft policy aimed at protecting and supporting former military spouses:
Former Military Spouse Protection Policy
Purpose:
This policy aims to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of former military spouses and ensure they receive necessary support and protection. It outlines measures to uphold their rights and provide resources for their well-being.
Scope:
This policy applies to all former military spouses, regardless of the branch of service or length of the service member’s career.
Policy Statements:
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Employment and Career Support:
- Employers shall not discriminate against former military spouses in hiring, promotion, or retention decisions based on their marital history.
- Former military spouses shall have access to career counseling, job placement services, and vocational training to support their career development and transition.
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Healthcare Access:
- Former military spouses shall be provided access to affordable healthcare options, including mental health services, to address the unique challenges they may face post-divorce.
- Healthcare providers shall be knowledgeable about the specific needs of former military families and provide compassionate care.
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Education and Professional Licensing:
- Former military spouses shall have access to educational opportunities, including scholarships and grants, to further their education and career goals.
- Measures shall be taken to facilitate the transfer and recognition of professional licenses and certifications across state lines to ensure continuous employment.
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Financial Support:
- Former military spouses shall have access to financial counseling and support services to assist with managing the financial impacts of divorce and separation.
- Resources and support shall be available to help former military spouses achieve financial stability and independence.
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Legal Assistance:
- Former military spouses shall have access to legal assistance and resources to navigate the complexities of divorce, child custody, and other legal matters.
- Legal services shall be provided to ensure that former military spouses understand their rights and receive fair treatment.
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Community and Emotional Support:
- Former military spouses shall have access to community support programs, including counseling services and support groups, to address the emotional and psychological impacts of divorce and separation.
- Community organizations and support networks shall be encouraged to create inclusive environments that understand and address the unique challenges faced by former military spouses.
Implementation and Compliance:
- The implementation of this policy shall be overseen by designated personnel within military support organizations and community agencies.
- Regular assessments and feedback mechanisms shall be established to ensure the effectiveness of the policy and to address any emerging issues promptly.
Review and Amendments:
- This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and effective in addressing the needs of former military spouses.
- Amendments to the policy may be made as necessary to adapt to changing circumstances and emerging challenges.
Conclusion:
This Former Military Spouse Protection Policy reaffirms our commitment to supporting the resilient and dedicated spouses of our service members, even after their military relationships have ended. By providing them with the necessary resources and protections, we honor their contributions and support their continued well-being.