To authorize the Secretary of Defense to establish a pilot program to assess the efficacy of providing junior enlisted members of the Armed Forces a monthly coupon for use in procuring food at commissaries.
Summary
H.R. 6586 proposes a pilot program where junior enlisted members of the Armed Forces receive monthly coupons for food at commissaries. The goal is to assess the effectiveness of this approach in improving food access and reducing food insecurity among this demographic. The Secretary of Defense would oversee the program, selecting two military installations based on specific criteria.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to improve the well-being of junior enlisted service members. It will provide them with additional resources to access nutritious food. The pilot program's results will inform future policies regarding food assistance for military personnel.
Potential Benefits
- Improved food security for junior enlisted members.
- Increased access to nutritious food options at commissaries.
- Potential reduction in reliance on dining facilities with low satisfaction.
- Data-driven insights into the efficacy of food assistance programs.
- Enhanced well-being and morale among junior enlisted personnel.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential administrative costs associated with implementing the pilot program.
- Limited scope of the pilot program (only two installations).
- Risk of coupon misuse (though restricted to food purchases).
- Possible unintended consequences on dining facility usage.
- Dependence on the efficient operation of commissaries.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional mandate to "provide for the common defence" (Preamble). By supporting the well-being of military personnel, it contributes to a stronger and more capable armed forces. Congress has the power to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8), which implicitly includes ensuring the basic needs of soldiers are met.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).