The state Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee has advanced legislation sponsored by Sen. Carmen Amato Jr. (R-9th) that would strengthen job and benefit protections for public employees who are deployed as part of their service in the military, reserves or National Guard.

Bill S-3601 would require public employers to maintain an employee’s pension and health benefits during periods of active military duty, and clarifies laws related to paid leave, job security and reemployment rights…