Bill > HR1978

This bill directs the Secretary of Defense to develop a comprehensive strategy to address obesity in the U.S. Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force) by treating it as a medical disease. Within one year of enactment, the Secretary must create a detailed plan that coordinates obesity-related programs, assesses the effectiveness of existing health programs, evaluates nutrition education for military healthcare practitioners, and develops strategies for appropriate obesity treatment. The bill also mandates an educational campaign to raise awareness about obesity prevention, available resources, and treatment options for service members. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of Defense to include information about unmet weight standards in future reports to Congress and to submit two specific reports: one analyzing the effects of obesity on military readiness and another detailing the effectiveness of obesity, food, and nutrition-related programs. The Comptroller General is also tasked with submitting a report analyzing existing obesity programs, assessing their effectiveness, and providing recommendations for improvement. These efforts are aimed at reducing obesity prevalence and enhancing military readiness by treating obesity as a serious medical condition that can impact service members' health and performance.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1978/all-info