Gov. Walker signs bill expanding National Guard benefits

MADISON — Gov. Scott Walker has signed a bill that expands Wisconsin National Guard members' benefits.

The Republican bill requires the state Department of Military Affairs to pay a guard member injured on state active duty until he or she is able to return to active duty or the active duty assignment ends.

The agency will be required to pay $100,000 to guard member's beneficiary if the member dies of an accidental injury while on active duty. The bill eliminates the current $50,000 payout in such situations.

The proposal also extends re-employment rights to non-residents working in the state and serving in the Wisconsin National Guard.

Walker signed the bill early Monday afternoon in the state Capitol.