Bill > S2772

This bill proposes a pilot program designed to help junior enlisted military members access more affordable and healthy food options. Specifically, the Secretary of Defense may implement a one-year program at two military installations where junior enlisted service members living in unaccompanied housing would receive monthly coupons to purchase food at commissaries. When selecting installations for the pilot, the Secretary will consider factors such as the number of enlisted members, housing kitchen availability, commissary food options, dining facility attendance rates, and customer satisfaction. The coupons can only be used to purchase food items and cannot be used for alcohol or tobacco. The coupons are intended to supplement, not replace, existing food assistance like basic subsistence allowances. After the pilot program concludes, the Secretary must submit a detailed report to congressional defense committees assessing the coupons' impact on food security, commissary and dining facility usage, and overall nutritional options for junior enlisted members. The goal is to explore ways to help service members, particularly those in unaccompanied housing, access more affordable and healthy food options.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2772/all-info