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Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales in August announced the launch of a new Web site designed to safeguard the civilian employment rights , voting rights and financial security of members of the Armed Services and veterans. The Web site, [url]http:/servicemembers.gov[/url] is a partnership between the Justice Department and other federal agencies that oversee those protections.

"Every day, men and women of our nation's armed forces put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms we enjoy, and it is our responsibility to ensure that their rights are protected in return" said Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales.

"Through this new Web site, members of the armed services will have the information they need about the rights guaranteed to them by law. At the Justice Department, we are proud to help those in uniform both know about the rights they have and vigorously defend those rights under the rule of the law"

The Web site offers information and resources about three laws passed specifically to protect servicemembers.

The Uniformed Services and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) prohibits employers from discriminating or retaliating against an employee or applicant for employment because of past, current, or future military obligations.

The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) requires that states allow certain groups of citizens, including servicemembers and their families, to register and vote absentee in a timely manner in elections for federal office.

The Servicemembers' Civil Releif Act (SCRA)provides civil protection for military personnel while on active duty.

The Justice Department has brought multiple cases on behalf of servicemembers or veterans.

Most recently, the Justice Department reached and agreement with Connecticut to protect the voting rights of military and overseas voters.

The site also provides contact information and directions to file complaints with the Justice Department and other federal agencies which investigate and prosecute civil rights violations.


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