The fiscal 2005 defense act (previous item) provides for up to 90 days of Tricare coverage for Reservists
and their families who are mobilized. It also authorizes 180 days of transitional Tricare health benefits
for Reservists, active-duty members and their families after separation from active duty. In addition,
members of the selected reserve earn a year’s eligibility for Tricare for each 90 days of service in a
contingency. The act also authorizes a reserve-component educational assistance program tied to the
Montgomery GI Bill. Assistance rates vary, depending on the length of active-duty service, starting with
40 percent for service of 90 days to one year, jumping to 60 percent for one year to two years, and
topping out at 80 percent for more than two consecutive years.
