PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Referred to the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities.
Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in House · Jan 6, 2009
State Defense Force Improvement Act - Recognizes state defense forces as integral military components of the homeland security effort of the United States, while reaffirming that such forces remain entirely state regulated, organized, and equipped, and recognizing that they will be used for homeland security purposes exclusively at the local level under state law.
Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to coordinate homeland security efforts with, and provide assistance (including the use of Department of Defense (DOD) property, arms, equipment, and facilities) to, a state defense force, upon request. Leaves participation by a state defense force in a DOD or Department of Homeland Security (DHS) training program to state discretion. Requires a state to reimburse DOD for training assistance costs. Provides that funds available to DOD may not be made available to a state defense force. Makes the state liable for any injuries or damages incurred by a defense force member while engaged in training activities or state active duty.
People & committees
Rep. Wilson, Joe [R-SC-2] · R–SC
Legislative record
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Referred to the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities.
Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Aug 14, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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