A bill to amend title 14, United States Code, to require the retention of certain enlisted members of the Coast Guard who have completed 18 or more, but less than 20, years of service, and for other purposes.

This bill amends title 14, United States Code, to establish new requirements for the retention of enlisted members of the Coast Guard who are nearing retirement eligibility. Its primary purpose is to prevent the involuntary separation of members who have completed 18 or more, but less than 20, years of service, ensuring they can qualify for retirement benefits. For regular enlisted members of the Coast Guard, the bill mandates that if they are selected for involuntary separation or denied reenlistment and are within two years of qualifying for retirement, they must be retained on active duty until they meet the retirement criteria. This provision ensures that these members can complete their service for retirement benefits. For enlisted members of the Coast Guard Reserve serving in an active status, the bill provides similar protections. If such a member, with 18 to less than 20 years of service, faces involuntary separation or denial of reenlistment (not due to physical disability or cause), they cannot be discharged or transferred from active status without their consent. The retention period extends until they reach 20 years of service or a specified anniversary date, depending on their current length of service.