Bill > S3185

This bill, called the "ANCHOR for Military Families Act," amends existing law to require the Secretary of Defense to provide comprehensive information to military service members and their families when they receive orders for a change of permanent station (PCS). The bill mandates that service members and their families receive detailed information at least 45 days before their relocation, including guidance on family assistance programs, housing options, mental health support, educational resources for dependent children (with specific attention to special education needs), legal and financial counseling, and other support services. The Secretary of Defense must incorporate this information into accessible materials and briefings, develop a communication strategy to increase awareness, and assess family satisfaction with the provided information. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary to provide annual reports to congressional Armed Services Committees detailing the implementation of these new requirements, including an assessment of service members' awareness of available relocation support programs and recommendations for improving information dissemination. The legislation aims to ease the transition process for military families by ensuring they have comprehensive, timely, and accessible information about resources available during relocation.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3185/all-info