S.Amdt. 4011

SA 4011, submitted by Mr. Merkley, aims to stop the Department of Defense from using its allocated funds to change its name to the "Department of War" or any other name that is substantially similar, unless Congress expressly authorizes it.

The amendment adds the following restrictions and requirements to the bill:

• Prohibitions: It bans spending money on renaming official documents, signage, websites, communications, materials, and any administrative, logistical, or contractual actions needed to change the name. It also prohibits public communications or directives that use a name other than the one established under section 111 of title 10, United States Code.

• Exceptions: The informal or colloquial use of the term "Pentagon" to refer to the Department of Defense or its headquarters building in commentary, press materials, or public communications is still allowed.

• Accountability: The Secretary of Defense must provide a report to the appropriate congressional committees in the House and Senate within 90 days of the Act's enactment. This report must detail any anticipated or actual expenditures spent on rebranding or renaming the Department of Defense.