The purpose of this resolution is to return to the previous version of the law. National Guard leaders are trained and experienced in the integration of military support to state and local authorities. Unless gained in their civilian profession or capacity, Title 10 reserve component officers simply do not have the knowledge or opportunities to apply it.

The fiscal year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) amended section 164 of 10 U.S.C. to read as follows:

"(4) At least one deputy commander of the combatant command the geographic area of responsibility of which includes the United States shall be a qualified officer of a reserve component of the armed forces who is eligible for promotion to the grade of O–9, unless a reserve component officer is serving as commander of that combatant command."

The law should be amended to read as it did previously:

"(4) At least one deputy commander of the combatant command the geographic area of responsibility of which includes the United States shall be a qualified officer of the National Guard who is eligible for promotion to the grade of O–9, unless a National Guard officer is serving as commander of that combatant command."