Sinema’s Military Spouse Employment Act ensures military spouses may continue their careers amidst frequent relocation

Military spouse unemployment remains the top stressor for servicemembers and their partners

January 4, 2024 - WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema’s Military Spouse Employment Act was signed into law as part of the annual ipartisan defense legislation. Sinema’s law ensures military spouses can continue their careers no matter where life takes them.

“Arizona servicemembers and their families make difficult sacrifices to keep us safe and secure – it’s our responsibility to ensure they’re supported. Our law empowers military spouses to continue succeeding in their careers no matter where life takes them,” said Sinema, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. 

Military spouse unemployment is much higher than the national average. A survey found that spouse unemployment consistently ranks as the biggest stressor for servicemembers and their partners.

Military spouses face unique challenges in finding and maintaining employment, including frequent relocation due to new orders and the high cost of childcare. Sinema’s legislation grants federal agencies the authority to hire military spouses for remote work and allow military spouses to retain their positions should they be transferred to another location, providing certainty that they can care for their families despite the disruption of regular relocation.

Last year, Sinema held a roundtable discussion with military spouses at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base to discuss solutions to the challenges they face finding, keeping, and growing their careers. 
Source: Senator Kyrsten Sinema