S.Amdt. 6034

This amendment aims to add a new section to the bill that allows the Secretary of Defense to start a pilot program. The purpose of this program is to give junior enlisted members of the Armed Forces monthly coupons to buy food at commissaries.

Key Details of the Amendment:

• Goals: The amendment expresses that military members and their families deserve affordable and healthy food, noting that challenges are especially high for junior enlisted members living in government-provided unaccompanied housing.

• Program Scope: The Secretary of Defense can run the pilot at 2 military installations for up to one year.

• Coupon Rules:

  • Coupons can only be used for food at commissaries.
  • Coupons cannot be used for tobacco or alcoholic beverages.
  • These coupons are meant to be an extra benefit and not replace basic allowance for subsistence or other meal programs.

• Selection Criteria: When picking installations, the Secretary will look at things like the number of members in unaccompanied housing, access to kitchens, distance to commissaries, and low satisfaction or attendance rates at dining facilities.

• Accountability: Within 90 days after the program ends, the Secretary of Defense must send a report to congressional defense committees. This report will assess how the coupons were used, member feedback, and whether the program helped reduce food insecurity and increase access to nutritious food.