Military Vaccine Reinstatement (E.O. 14184)

Summary

Allows military members who were let go for not getting the COVID-19 shot to rejoin the service with their old rank and pay.

What problem does this solve?

The military required its members to get the COVID-19 vaccine and fired those who refused. This order gives those members a way to get their jobs back with their previous rank and full pay.

What does this order do?

Offers reinstatement to discharged service members

Makes reinstatement available to all military members who were let go only because they refused to get the COVID-19 vaccine and who ask to return.

Restores rank and provides back pay

Allows reinstated service members to get their old rank back and receive any pay, benefits, or bonuses they missed out on.

Allows members who left voluntarily to return

Permits service members who say they left the military to avoid the vaccine mandate to come back without it hurting their rank, pay, or status.

Requires a progress report

Orders the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Homeland Security to report to the President on their progress within 60 days.

Who does this affect?

Military service members discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine
Department of Defense
Department of Homeland Security

What is the real world impact?

•

Undermines military order

Critics may argue that reversing these discharges sets a bad example, potentially encouraging service members to disobey other orders in the future.

•

Corrects a perceived injustice

Provides a way to fix what the order calls an unfair dismissal of service members who refused the COVID-19 vaccine, restoring their careers and benefits.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately and sets a deadline for a progress report.

Progress report to the President

Within 60 days of January 27, 2025, the heads of the Defense and Homeland Security departments must report on their progress in carrying out this order.