‘Operation Offset’ Targets Military

The Republican Study Committee has proposed “Operation Offset,” as a scheme to pay for hurricane relief operations without increasing taxes or adding to the budget deficit. Certain sections would hit hard at service members, military retirees and their families. An example would be a 20 percent copayment for all Medicare costs and an increase in Medicare Part B premiums by 20 percent. The plan also would encourage troops to accept reduced health care benefits for their families. All stateside elementary and secondary schools for military family members would be chopped, and the three military exchange systems would be consolidated. The Air Force Sergeants Association says “It appears that for some members of Congress, the quality of life for those who serve and protect our country are fair game.” The Military Officers Association of America says that “the chances of Congress going along with such proposals appear slim.”