WOMA Surprise

As part of the 1992 Defense Authorization Act, the Warrant Officer Management Act (WOMA) was passed by both the House and Senate. The legislation formally created the W-5 rank and authorized selective forced retirement of warrant officers with more than 20 years of service.

At the time of passage, however, only the Army intended to implement the W-5 grade.
The Coast Guard was not included in WOMA.
The Association had clearly communicated its opposition to the legislation, citing strong resistance among its membership. A separate Coast Guard survey of active duty warrant officers reflected the same concerns.
According to the Association, congressional staff members understood that the Coast Guard did not intend to implement WOMA in fiscal year 1992. As a result, the Coast Guard was omitted from the Act. Inclusion would have required comprehensive amendments to Title 14 of the United States Code.
The issue, however, was not fully settled. By the end of 1993, the Coast Guard would once again explore the possibility of seeking inclusion under WOMA authorities.