Bill Name: Americans Act

Bill Number: S-117

Bill Author(s): Senator Ted Cruz

Legislative Session / Year: 2025

State: Federal

AVFCA Position: Support

Bill Synopsis: Recognizing individual concerns about the New Shots Act of 2025, this legislation seeks to provide remedies for members of the Armed Forces who were discharged or faced adverse actions due to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. A key provision of the bill prohibits the Secretary of Defense from implementing a new COVID-19 vaccine mandate after the previous mandate was rescinded, unless a new law expressly allows it. This ensures that no similar mandate can be enacted without congressional approval.

This legislation also outlines various remedies for service members affected by the vaccination policy. Members discharged for refusing the vaccine can have their discharge status adjusted to honorable if it would have been classified as such were it not for their vaccine refusal. Additionally, the bill provides for reinstatement to service at the highest rank held prior to separation, compensation for lost pay and benefits due to adverse actions related to vaccination status, and expungement of any adverse actions from any member's service records.

Furthermore, S-117 aims to retain unvaccinated members within the military by encouraging professional development, promotions, and leadership opportunities. The Department of Defense is also instructed to create processes for vaccination exemptions based on natural immunity, health conditions, or religious beliefs.