My daughter, SFC Allison Bailey, served honorably in the Nevada National Guard for 17 years. After filing multiple complaints within the Guard, an Article 15 was lodged against her. In search of a fair and unbiased trial, Allison requested a Court-Martial but was denied under NRS 412.2879. The same command she had filed complaints against found her guilty and discharged her, stripping away all medical benefits. Tragically, these actions contributed to her death just six weeks after discharge.

Allison's story is not unique; many servicemembers face similar situations without any recourse due to current state legislation that may deny them their right to request and be granted a Court Martial when needed. This is not only unjust but also goes against the principles of fairness upon which our military justice system should be built. Moreover; the U.S. Constitution provides for the right to a trial by jury. Article III, Sec. 2 provides: “The trial of all crimes shall be by jury and such trial shall be held in the state where the said crimes have been committed.” The states whose National Guard Commands have legislatively removed this right have violated their own servicemembers Constitutional rights. 

We believe that every member of our National Guard deserves access to fair trials when they are accused or have grievances within their ranks - this includes having the right to request for a Court Martial if they deem it necessary for their case.

We call on lawmakers to enact the SFC Allison Bailey Right to Court Martial Act so that all National Guard servicemembers can request and be granted a Court Martial should they ever need one - in honor of SFC Allison Bailey and countless others who have suffered due to this oversight in our system.

Please sign this petition today; let's ensure no other servicemember has their rights denied or life cut short due to unfair practices within our military justice system.