National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022
Sponsored By: Senator Sen. Scott, Rick [R-FL]
Became Law
Summary
Authorizes funding and major policy changes across the U.S. defense and national security enterprise. It sets procurement priorities, R&D and lab authorities, military personnel and family benefits, environmental actions, and many new reporting and pilot requirements.
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- Service members and families: parental leave is extended to 12 weeks and a new means‑tested Basic Needs Allowance targets those with household income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.
- Procurement and the industrial base: authorizes FY2022 procurement and multiyear buys across the services and adds program limits and reporting rules, including F‑35 affordability controls with Secretary determinations by Oct. 1, 2025.
- Research, technology, and environment: expands R&D authorities by codifying the Defense Innovation Unit, creating Science & Technology Reinvention Laboratories, and a National Network for Microelectronics. It also mandates PFAS testing and remediation timelines with preliminary testing due within two years and a 120‑day moratorium on PFAS incineration.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
298 provisions identified: 253 benefits, 9 costs, 36 mixed.
Stronger military rules on sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is now a criminal offense under the UCMJ. Commanders must, when practicable, send formal complaints to an independent investigator within 72 hours and aim to finish investigations within 14 days. The DoD Safe Helpline can take restricted and unrestricted sexual assault reports online or by app, with trained staff and privacy protections. DoD may add race and ethnicity of accused people to annual reports, with privacy limits, through May 1, 2028.
Basic Needs Allowance for low-income troops
If you finished initial training and your household income is at or below 130% of the poverty guideline, you can get a monthly Basic Needs Allowance. The amount is (130% of the guideline minus your household income) divided by 12. Only one member per household can receive it, and members without dependents are not eligible. Payments start one year after enactment and end after December 31, 2027.
More funding and oversight for military health
For FY2022, the Defense Health Program is authorized about $35.5 billion to support care in military and private settings. DoD can partner with VA to plan and build shared medical facilities and transfer funds when Congress approves. DoD also runs a fraud‑prevention program that uses civil monetary penalties and credits recovered money back to the health program.
Stronger planning for beds, evacuation, and drugs
DoD must update plans by October 1, 2022 for U.S. medical beds, where combat casualties get care, and global patient movement. It must assess biosurveillance and overseas lab capacity and brief Congress by April 1, 2022 and again by December 1, 2022. DoD must also brief by April 1, 2022 on building U.S. production of key drug ingredients and finished drugs, including costs, timelines, and plans.
Equal incentive pay for Reserve members
Reserve members must get the same monthly incentive pay as regular members for comparable work and skills. The Defense Secretary must report to Congress by September 30, 2022 and can only implement parity after that report and a written certification that parity will not harm force structure, recruiting, or retention.
Higher pay cap for top DARPA hires
Up to five DARPA positions can now be paid up to 150% of the Level I Executive Schedule rate. This applies to employees appointed under the specified DARPA authority.
More leave and travel for service families
Covered service members can take up to 12 weeks of parental leave in the year after a birth, adoption, or foster placement. This takes effect one year after enactment, and fitness tests for birth-giving members in the first 12 months require medical approval. DoD can pay to move a dependent child to the U.S. for school when the member serves outside the continental U.S., or within the U.S. when the member is in Alaska or Hawaii and the school is in another State. Foreign Service families get one round-trip per year for children, and a parent may visit children abroad if certain conditions are met. The law pays the cost of round-trip travel.
$300 million for Ukraine security in 2022
The law provides $300 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative in FY2022. It updates references to FY2022 and extends a related deadline to December 31, 2024.
$50 million a year for Indo-Pacific security
From FY2022 through FY2027, up to $50 million each year can support maritime assistance and training in the Indo‑Pacific. Funds may also cover small‑scale construction.
Annual China military report through 2027
DoD must send Congress an unclassified report on China’s military and security developments by January 31 each year through 2027. It must include a 20‑year outlook and cover strategy, budgets, cyber, space, nuclear forces, Taiwan, and influence operations.
Ban on military domestic policing expanded
The ban on using the military to enforce domestic law now clearly covers the Navy, Marine Corps, and Space Force in addition to the Army and Air Force. This protection applies upon enactment.
Cut nuclear site backlogs by 2030
The nuclear security agency must cut deferred maintenance per replacement plant value by at least 45% by 2030, using a plan with a 2022 baseline. The Administrator must send annual reports to Congress starting by March 1, 2023 and every year through 2030.
F‑35 sustainment must prove value
Within 180 days, the Secretary must report F‑35 sustainment costs, including cost‑per‑aircraft for FY2022–2026. The Secretary cannot start or change to a performance‑based logistics contract for F‑35 unless they certify it will cut costs or improve readiness, backed by a cost‑benefit analysis. This does not apply to older contracts unless the change requires a PBL.
Large Air Force and Navy base projects
The Air Force and Navy can buy land and build projects listed in the law’s tables, using appropriated funds. Examples include $251 million for Joint Base Elmendorf‑Richardson, $206 million for Kadena Air Base, and $108.5 million for RAF Lakenheath. Navy examples include $240.9 million for Miramar and $344.793 million for Norfolk.
Long-term Navy ship plan required
The Navy must deliver a detailed ship requirement within 180 days after a covered event. The law treats the enactment date as a covered event. The plan must list total numbers and classes of ships needed 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years out, and show how options meet approved scenarios.
More reviews for nuclear forces decisions
The Pentagon hires an independent research center to review nuclear command and control over 10‑ and 30‑year horizons, with an interim briefing by September 1, 2022 and a final report by March 1, 2023. If the President plans a unilateral change over 20% to the nuclear stockpile or deployed weapons, a Nuclear Posture Review must start first, unless a Senate‑approved treaty applies.
National mobilization planning gets a lead
The Secretary of Defense designates a senior civilian as the Executive Agent for National Mobilization. This official coordinates plans to rapidly grow the force, from volunteers to people inducted under Selective Service. Within one year, DoD must give Congress a plan covering scenarios of 300,000, 600,000, and 1,000,000 new personnel.
New missile defense plans and buys
DoD must plan a 360‑degree air and missile defense for Guam with an initial capability in 2025 and report within 60 days; up to 80% of certain FY2022 funds are on hold until that report. The Missile Defense Agency must plan to buy and deploy at least 20 next‑generation interceptors, include funding in the FY2023 budget materials, and run flight tests within five years after initial capability. The MDA Director gets authority to budget and manage directed‑energy work for missile defense and focus on early R&D and industry transition. The Air Force can spend $10.9 million in FY2022 to buy commercial parts for the KS‑75 cryptographic device.
Stronger cyber defenses across DoD
The Defense Department tightens cyber defenses and planning. Each DoD component must use the Protective Domain Name System within 120 days and report status in 150 days. DoD must map mission‑relevant cyber terrain by January 1, 2025, with policy updates due November 1, 2023, and Combatant Command documentation by January 1, 2024. U.S. Cyber Command and senior leaders must assess adversary cyber postures within one year and then develop country strategies for Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran.
Stronger resilience for military bases
The Defense Department must build and plan bases with resilience in mind. Plans must include work with local groups and assess 100‑ and 500‑year flood risks using current and future climate and land‑use data. DoD updates building rules to include the 2021 energy code and ASHRAE 90.1‑2019; FY2024 budget project forms and later must comply, and a report is due by February 1, 2024. Each year, DoD must report readiness effects, costs, and vulnerabilities using its climate risk tool. DoD can fund state and local projects that protect bases and community infrastructure, and must add installation resilience into defense strategies and wargaming.
2022 military pay and troop levels
The law authorizes $166.9 billion total for FY2022 military personnel, including $9.34 billion for retiree health contributions. It sets active‑duty end strengths for September 30, 2022: Army 485,000; Navy 346,920; Marine Corps 178,500; Air Force 329,220; Space Force 8,400. The Air Force must keep at least 279 tactical airlift planes from October 1, 2021 until the later of October 1, 2022 or the next NDAA, with a narrow exception for mishaps or damage.
Stronger national cyber readiness and oversight
CISA runs a National Cyber Exercise Program that simulates major attacks and produces model exercises and after‑action reports. CISA must submit a strategic cybersecurity assessment within 240 days and at least every three years to guide tools, research needs, and priorities. U.S. Cyber Command now directly manages planning and budgets for Cyber Mission Forces, with budget execution control starting January 1, 2022 and full planning and budgeting in FY2024. An implementation plan is due in 30 days and Congress gets a briefing within 90 days.
Stronger protection for industrial control systems
CISA must lead efforts to find and fix threats to industrial control systems that run power, water, and more. It keeps threat hunting and incident response teams, gives technical help to users and makers, and shares vulnerability info. CISA briefs Congress within 180 days and then every six months for four years. GAO reviews within two years.
Big FY2022 funding for Army equipment
The law authorizes $2,455,910,000 for Army ammunition, $4,695,425,000 for weapons and tracked vehicles, and $3,357,631,000 for aircraft in FY2022. Spending occurs if appropriated.
More funds to counter ISIS in 2022
The law extends counter-ISIS assistance through December 31, 2022 and authorizes $345 million for FY2022. It adds evaluation items and allows a Presidential waiver for certain detention-related projects with a national security finding. The President must notify Congress and wait 15 days, certify compliance with the law of armed conflict and human rights, and provide updated plans and costs. The waiver authority ends on December 31, 2022.
Tougher oversight of big weapons buys
The Air Force must submit detailed six‑month engineering and cost matrices for the new ground‑based strategic deterrent with the budget and provide semiannual updates; GAO briefs Congress. The Navy must run a land‑based test of DDG(X) propulsion and power during design and finish it by the lead ship’s delivery. The Navy cannot start building the first ship of a major class until it certifies design is complete, submits a production readiness report, and waits 30 days. Missile defense leaders must update Congress twice a year on Board decisions.
U.S. accepts Korea and Poland base projects
The U.S. may accept allied‑funded military construction in South Korea and Poland under existing agreements. Examples include $52 million for Camp Humphreys housing and $171 million for an Osan munitions area, plus $30 million for a Poznan command and control building and $7 million for an information systems facility. These projects can support local builders and U.S. operations.
Army construction, research, energy projects funded
The Army is authorized to start many building and land projects with dollar amounts listed in this law’s tables, like Wheeler Army Airfield ($140 million) and Fort Hood ($130 million). Vicenza family housing is authorized at $92.304 million for construction and $92.304 million for planning/design. FY2022 Army research funding subtotals are about $549 million (basic), $1.10 billion (applied), and $1.46 billion (advanced tech). Energy resilience projects include Joint Base Anacostia‑Bolling ($31.261 million) and Camp Arifjan ($15 million). These amounts can be obligated when Congress provides appropriations.
Ports get funding and cleaner power upgrades
The law funds many maritime programs for FY2022, including $750 million for the Port and Intermodal Improvement Program. Grants can pay for shore power projects in FY2022. The port program now covers projects like electrification, microgrids, new cargo handling equipment, worker training, and EV or hydrogen refueling. Port grants cannot buy fully automated cargo gear if it would cause a net job loss.
Caps on F-35 fleet size in 2028
Starting October 1, 2028, the Services face caps on maintainable F‑35s: F‑35A 1,763; F‑35B 353; F‑35C Navy 273; Marine Corps 67. Each cap can be scaled by an affordability factor set by October 1, 2025 and tied to FY2027 average cost. The Defense Secretary may waive caps only if needed for national strategy.
No FY2022 W76-2 reconversion funds
NNSA cannot use FY2022 funds to reconvert or retire the W76‑2 warhead. The Administrator can waive this only after consulting defense and intelligence leaders and certifying the reasons to Congress.
Major 2022 defense and embassy funding
The law funds core defense and embassy work in FY2022. It authorizes about $55.6 billion for Army operations and maintenance, $345 million for Cooperative Threat Reduction, and $2.0 billion for embassy security and construction. It approves many military construction projects, such as $153 million at Redstone Arsenal and $93 million at Ramstein Air Base. It allows up to $6 billion to be moved between FY2022 defense accounts, with limits. It also authorizes U.S. contributions to NATO infrastructure and funding for U.S.–Israeli missile defense co‑production, which includes cash matches and U.S. workshare rules.
More DoD-paid travel for families
Family members can get travel allowances to attend a service member’s funeral or memorial. If a member is permanently assigned to a ship for 31 or more days while it is overhauling, inactivating, or under construction, dependents can get travel provided or reimbursed. Allowances accrue on day 31 and every 60 days after. Total dependent reimbursement cannot exceed the cost of one government‑paid round trip.
Safer barracks and better base support
DoD must inspect all on‑base dorms and barracks within 60 days and fix broken locks within 30 days of finding them. Commanders must immediately enter missing members in the NCIC and alert local police. DoD must set a single policy for remote bases by December 1, 2022 that covers housing, schools, health care, spouse jobs, and recreation. DoD must also brief Congress within 180 days on special‑education legal help for families in EFMP.
Stronger anti-hazing and abuse response
The law expands anti-hazing rules to include bullying. A single annual report from the Defense Secretary starts May 31, 2023 and runs through May 31, 2028. It also strengthens the Family Advocacy Program: better data standards, options to refer victims to civilian services, and standardized screening. For two years, only Assistant Secretary–level officials or higher may approve exceptional eligibility, with quarterly reports. The Family Advocacy Program’s report date moves to April 30, 2026, and GAO recommendations must be implemented within 180 days.
Stronger military justice and victim support
The law strengthens military justice. Each service creates an independent Special Trial Counsel office led by a senior judge advocate who reports to the service Secretary. Defense counsel get funding for investigators, experts, travel, and trial support. Victims have a right to timely notice of plea or non-prosecution deals, unless notice would harm an investigation or privacy. DoD must publish a plan within one year for a single document system and give 90‑day updates until then. DoD must track retaliation reports and share outcomes, and each service must assess racial disparities and report within one year.
Vaccine refusal discharges stay honorable
Beginning August 24, 2021 and for two years after enactment, a service member discharged only for refusing a lawful COVID‑19 vaccine order must receive either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions.
Lease and phone relief for diplomats abroad
Members of the Foreign Service posted abroad get the same lease and phone contract termination rights as servicemembers. This helps end housing and phone contracts when moving overseas. It applies upon enactment.
Funds for joint VA-DoD health center
The law transfers $137 million to the joint DoD‑VA fund for the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center. The money supports operations at the North Chicago VA Medical Center, the Navy Ambulatory Care Center, and combined facility operations. This helps veterans and TRICARE patients who use these centers.
Military retirement credit and yearly checks
The Navy must credit time spent in the Seaman to Admiral‑21 baccalaureate program (FY2010–FY2014) toward retirement when no signed acknowledgment is on file, within 180 days. DoD must set one annual check of eligibility for retired pay and survivor annuities within 180 days. A report to Congress on death notification processes is due within one year.
Better health tech and vaccine tracking
DoD must publish a Digital Health Strategy by April 1, 2022 to use tools like wearables, 3D printing, and data analytics in care. By January 1, 2023, DoD must run a system that records each vaccine given to service members, any side effects, and refusals, and updates electronic health records with strong cyber protections.
Coordinated care for unexplained health incidents
The President names an interagency coordinator to lead the response to anomalous health incidents. Agencies must name leads, brief Congress regularly, and set up secure self‑reporting. DoD must set a team to ensure timely care and treatment and provide regular briefings. Government employees and their family members get timely access, if space is available, to military medical centers for assessment and care. The law authorizes $5 million in FY2022 for response work.
Easier access to mental health and addiction care
Service members can ask a supervisor above E‑5 for a mental health referral and must be referred quickly, with privacy protections. DoD must run a pilot within 180 days to help TRICARE patients schedule mental health visits at select clinics for at least one year, with reports on results. By June 1, 2022, DoD must brief Congress on substance abuse trends, treatment options, and funding over the past 10 years.
Eating disorder care for service members
DoD must identify, treat, and rehabilitate members with eating disorders. Outpatient and inpatient care must be available. Residential treatment is covered only when it is the primary diagnosis and is medically needed. These rules take effect October 1, 2022.
Postpartum care rules and fitness relief
Within 180 days, DoD must set postpartum care guidelines for military hospitals, including mental health checks, pelvic health care, and treating major bleeding. DoD must set scheduling rules for postpartum visits and may pilot scheduling with well‑baby care. DoD must set a standard policy for excusing or adjusting fitness and body composition tests after birth, and brief Congress within 270 days.
Protecting military and VA health capacity
The law tightens oversight of military medical staffing and reporting. From FY2023–FY2027, Walter Reed must be staffed to at least 85% of its 2016 joint table unless the Secretary certifies full capability. The DoD–VA joint medical demonstration authority is extended to September 30, 2023.
Safer, more available child care on bases
Each military department must inspect all child development centers within one year to find hazards like lead, asbestos, and mold. By March 1, 2022, they must brief Congress with a list of failing centers and a funding plan to fix them, and then provide regular updates. Starting one year after enactment, departments are encouraged to partner with public or private groups to expand child care for military and DoD families, with annual reports on costs and children served.
TRICARE adds eating disorder and genetic tests
TRICARE now covers preconception and prenatal carrier screening for listed conditions, one test per condition per lifetime. Starting October 1, 2022, TRICARE covers eating‑disorder treatment for dependents, including outpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and inpatient care. Residential care is allowed only when medically indicated and the dependent is not eligible for Medicare Part A. Retirees under 10 U.S.C. 1086(a) also gain eating‑disorder treatment coverage with preserved prior plan eligibilities.
More funding for military housing upgrades
The Air Force may spend up to $105.5 million on family housing improvements and $10.5 million on design work. The Navy is authorized named family housing projects, including $10.4 million for Marine Barracks Washington and $61.5 million for Yokosuka, with total caps (e.g., $71.9 million for improvements and $3.6 million for planning). Fort Wainwright’s unaccompanied housing project rises from $114 million to $146 million. For FY2022–FY2026, each service must reserve 5% of the replacement cost of unaccompanied housing from sustainment funds for improvements.
Stronger safety and disability rules in housing
Privatized military housing is treated like military family housing for ADA and Fair Housing rules. Landlords cannot charge tenants for reasonable disability‑related modifications in contracts signed on or after enactment. Window fall‑prevention rules now apply to all military family housing, including privatized units, and DoD must provide a plan. Leaders’ performance evaluations now include how well they improve and oversee privatized housing conditions.
Transit land transfers add affordable homes
Certain federally assisted assets can be transferred for transit‑oriented development with strong affordability rules. At least 40% of homes must be restricted at or below 60% of area median income, and at least 20% at or below 30% AMI. The TOD use must last at least 30 years and increase transit ridership. Public‑use transfers must keep the asset in public use for at least 5 years.
Army tuition assistance fixes and reimbursements
The Army must report within 60 days on the IgnitED tuition assistance system. The report must give the date for full functionality and when members and schools will be paid back for delays and errors.
Better pay and job protections for DoD civilians
Navy civilian employees on temporary duty outside the U.S. on naval vessels get overtime calculated the same as at their home station. In DoD reductions in force, employee performance must be counted among the factors. The two‑year probationary period for certain DoD employees ends for people appointed on or after December 31, 2022.
Bonuses and special pays extended through 2022
Many military bonus and special pay authorities now run through December 31, 2022. This includes several Title 37 pays and the temporary authority to raise the Basic Allowance for Housing in certain areas. Eligible service members keep access for one more year.
Easier hiring and moves at DoD labs
DoD science and technology reinvention labs can directly hire candidates with advanced degrees, up to 5% of scientific and engineering positions each year. Civilian staff at these labs move to demonstration personnel systems within 18 months without pay cuts or worse terms. DARPA can pay relocation and travel costs for up to 15 new appointees each fiscal year.
Fair uniform costs and gender parity
DoD will set uniform item rules within 180 days to reduce gender‑based cost differences. By September 30, 2022, each Service must ensure one gender does not pay more for required items. If a change affects only enlisted members of one gender, those members get an allowance equal to the related out‑of‑pocket cost. A cost report is due by December 31, 2022.
Homeland Security hiring for acquisition jobs
Homeland Security creates a hiring and training program for acquisition careers. It sets job rules, recruits at colleges (including HBCUs and HSIs), and provides rotations, mentorship, and small‑business contracting training. The Department reports to Congress within one year and each year through 2027.
Minimum staffing for military technicians
As of the last day of FY2022, minimum dual‑status technician numbers are set: Army National Guard 22,294; Army Reserve 6,492; Air National Guard 10,994; Air Force Reserve 7,111. Temporary technicians may not exceed 25% of these totals. States cannot force a technician to change status or punish them for refusing.
More education help for military and diplomats
Selected Reserve students can choose to get Montgomery GI Bill–Selected Reserve payments at the same time as DoD Tuition Assistance if enrolled half-time or more. The Defense Language Institute can award Associate and Bachelor of Arts degrees to qualified graduates. In‑state tuition now also covers Foreign Service members on active duty for more than 30 days (and their spouses and dependents) starting with enrollments after July 1, 2024. Troops‑to‑Teachers must operate and report yearly; new enrollments end July 1, 2025, but those already enrolled can finish and keep benefits.
More help for schools serving military kids
For FY2022, $70 million supports local school districts with military children: $50 million for section 572 assistance, $10 million for children with severe disabilities, and $10 million for districts with many military children with severe disabilities. DoD must brief Congress by March 31, 2022 on amounts for each district. By April 1, 2022, DoD also briefs Congress on a process for installation commanders to certify impact aid forms to improve accuracy and timelines.
More job paths for military spouses
DoD can run a three‑year paid fellowship pilot for military spouses, starting within a year, with total assistance capped at $5 million. A pilot lets DoD directly hire eligible spouses into overseas competitive‑service jobs, with terms up to two years and renewals, ending December 31, 2026. DoD must also carry out a plan within 18 months to share effective outreach so spouses can access career help.
More STEM internships and MSI research
The law adds Barry Goldwater research internships for top undergrads in science, engineering, and math. Interns can get a stipend up to the scholarship maximum, with priority for community colleges and minority‑serving schools. The Defense Department must publish a plan within one year to grow defense R&D at minority‑serving institutions and can run competitive grants if funded. The State Department can grant up to $500,000 per year to support science and technology fellowships, including stipends and travel.
New Naval college and Air Force institute
The law creates the U.S. Naval Community College to offer degree and career training for eligible Sailors, Marines, and Navy civilians. It can award degrees only if the Education Secretary recommends approval and the college is accredited. The law also makes the Air Force Institute of Technology a permanent part of the Department of the Air Force to provide advanced technical education to Air Force and Space Force members and civilian employees.
Required human relations training in military
Service members get training on race relations, equal opportunity, and preventing gender discrimination. Training starts in basic training and continues regularly. New officer candidates and enlistees are told the meaning of the oath and to decline entry if they cannot support equal protection. The Secretary must brief Congress within 180 days.
Service academy backups and free ECG tests
If a Member of Congress dies, resigns, or is expelled and a successor is sworn in after the deadline, other Senators can make service academy nominations for that year. DoD must report on this by September 30, 2022. The law also requires a pilot to give free ECG heart tests to at least 25% of the incoming class at covered academies in the first fall after enactment. DoD must brief Congress within 180 days after the pilot ends.
Stronger job protections for DoD civilians
Before any reduction‑in‑force or early‑out incentives, DoD must notify Congress 15 days in advance and provide a detailed staffing report. DoD diversity reports must include civilian employees and show data by department, gender, ethnicity, and pay grades. The Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation is a DoD Field Activity, and its staff cannot be involuntarily separated for one year except for cause.
Defense buying pilots favor small firms
The Pentagon runs new pilots to speed buying of innovative tech and to favor small and nontraditional firms. Each selected proposal is capped at $50,000,000 unless the Secretary approves more. DoD also reviews barriers to using commercial products and its OTA rules, including how ESOP‑owned S‑corps are treated. These steps aim to open more defense work to small and employee‑owned businesses.
Higher pay for military housing firms
The law raises two payment percentages for privatized military housing deals from 2.5% to 50%. This increases the payments calculated under those provisions. The change takes effect upon enactment.
2022 funds for threat reduction
The law authorizes $344.849 million for the Cooperative Threat Reduction Program for FY2022. Examples include $2.997 million for offensive arms elimination, $13.25 million for chemical weapons destruction, $17.767 million for nuclear security, $229.022 million for cooperative biological engagement, $58.754 million for proliferation prevention, and $23.059 million for other costs. The money can be obligated in FY2022–FY2024.
Afghanistan War Commission formed
A 16‑member Afghanistan War Commission is created to study U.S. actions from June 1, 2001 to August 30, 2021. Appointments are due within 60 days and the first meeting is within 30 days after all appointments. The commission reports yearly and gives a final report within three years of its first meeting, then ends 90 days later. Agencies must report on declassification efforts within four years after the final report.
Annual Taiwan defense readiness reviews
DoD must assess Taiwan’s asymmetric defenses, interoperability, and needs each year through FY2027. The first report and plan are due within 180 days of enactment. Reports are unclassified with an optional classified annex.
Army must notify on big changes
The Army must notify Congress before making or announcing any major force‑structure change. The notice must explain why, timing, operational effects, and estimated costs. The rule covers brigade‑level or higher changes and theater‑level capabilities. The Defense Secretary may certify urgent cases that need immediate action.
Bases push for net-zero and resilience
DOD must make at least 10% of major bases energy net‑zero and water or waste net‑zero by fiscal year 2035. It seeks a study within 60 days, finishes it by February 1, 2023, and reports progress within 180 days with briefings through fiscal year 2025. Each service picks at least two at‑risk bases in 30 days and finishes a resilience plan piece within one year. DoD sets power and water targets for the 50 highest‑use data centers and standards for new centers, with waivers allowed for national security with notice. The services are encouraged to adjust leases so bases can use on‑site renewables during emergencies.
Better recruiting and mobilization planning
The Defense Secretary must review medical standards, screening, and waiver processes for enlistment within one year, using 2017–2021 data, and brief Congress. Starting in the first fiscal year after enactment and every five years, Selective Service processes must be included in major mobilization exercises. The Department must brief Congress within 180 days after the first exercise and deliver a full report within two years.
Better tracking and plans for Afghan SIVs
DoD and State must, within 120 days, report on using the SPOT database to verify contracts and work history for Afghan Special Immigrant Visa cases and recommend improvements. DoD must also report on Afghanistan within 60 days and each year through December 31, 2026, including plans to evacuate Afghans who have or are seeking SIV status.
Cleanup tech grants and nuclear waste plan
DoD can fund development and testing of cleanup technologies, with one program capped at a 70% federal share, and must brief Congress before first agreements. A university program supports research grants, internships, and workshops. NNSA must send a defense nuclear waste strategy within one year with 5‑, 10‑, and 25‑year projections and five‑year budget estimates, then a follow‑up with the FY2027 budget.
Defense adopts zero-trust cybersecurity
The DoD CIO and U.S. Cyber Command must create a zero‑trust cybersecurity strategy within 270 days. Each military department must send draft plans within one year after the strategy is final. Leaders must review plans and funding, including a funding assessment by March 31, 2024 and annually after. The Department gives initial and annual cybersecurity budget briefings through January 1, 2030.
DHS creates medical countermeasures program
If funded, DHS sets up a program to protect its workers and working animals during CBRNE incidents, outbreaks, or pandemics. The Chief Medical Officer sets standards, forms a working group, and files a logistics plan within 120 days of funding. DHS must transfer related resources within 120 days of enactment and brief Congress within 180 days.
F-35 engine plans and cost checks
The Navy must report within 14 days after the FY2023 budget on adding advanced propulsion to F‑35B/C jets and plan to start production and retrofits by FY2027. The Air Force must send a similar plan for the F‑35A adaptive engine, with milestones and yearly funding needs, and begin retrofits by FY2027. GAO reviews F‑35 sustainment each year and briefs Congress by March 1 from 2022 through 2025.
Faster reports on lost military weapons
For fiscal years 2022–2024, the Defense Secretary must send yearly reports on thefts, losses, and recoveries of listed sensitive weapons, ammo, and explosives. Any confirmed theft, loss, or recovery must be reported to the National Crime Information Center and local police within 72 hours.
Fix underperforming weapons programs
Each Defense component must rank the top five and bottom five acquisition programs by January 31, 2023 and each year for three years. For the five lowest programs, they must identify causes and deliver a plan with actions and timelines to fix problems.
Guard and Reserve base projects
The military may build and buy land for Guard and Reserve sites using listed amounts. Examples include $34 million for a readiness center in Guam, $70.6 million at Fort McCoy, and $44.2 million at Truax Field. These projects support readiness and local construction jobs.
Identify fentanyl sources, tie some aid
The annual narcotics report must list countries that are major sources of illicit fentanyl, with details on cooperation and controls. The U.S. can withhold some aid from countries that fail to adopt comparable drug‑scheduling or prosecution steps. Democracy aid, anti‑trafficking help, and global health aid can still continue if eligible. These rules take effect 90 days after enactment.
Joint leadership on emerging tech
The law puts the Defense Secretary and the Director of National Intelligence in charge together of the Emerging Technology Steering Committee. The Deputy Defense Secretary, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, and the Principal Deputy DNI chair it. Plans must match the main national defense and intelligence strategies. The law defines key tech areas like AI, quantum, hypersonics, and biotech, and extends a deadline to October 1, 2025.
Joint task forces extended to 2027
DoD joint task forces can keep supporting law enforcement counterterrorism work through 2027.
Leader named for spectrum strategy
Within 60 days, the Defense Secretary must name a Senate‑confirmed senior official to run the electromagnetic spectrum strategy. An implementation report is due in 60 days and a rules‑of‑engagement report in 270 days. The Secretary must brief Congress twice a year for five years. If the CIO is chosen, an extra evaluation is due in 180 days.
Limits on cutting forces and tests
For FY2022, at least 400 ICBMs must stay deployed, and no more than five guided missile cruisers can be retired or put in storage. The Navy cannot decommission a battle force ship early without a 30‑day certification to Congress that alternatives are not feasible. From enactment through September 30, 2023, the Air Force cannot cut B‑1 squadron capabilities or key staff below current levels unless the unit has begun B‑21 replacement. The Navy cannot shift flight tests to non‑test units or reduce testing below October 1, 2020 levels until the test director certifies no harm; a report was due by September 1, 2022.
List risky telecom and IT contractors
Within 30 days of enactment, the Secretary must create a list of telecom and IT contractors that knowingly helped major cyberattacks or surveillance used to suppress dissent. The initial list and annual updates go to Congress for five years.
More anti‑trafficking training online
The Blue Campaign must create interactive online training and make it available for 10 years starting 90 days after enactment. Access covers law enforcement at all levels, non‑Federal corrections staff, and others the Director approves. An advisory board helps guide tools and outreach to spot human trafficking.
More help to fix cyber risks
DoD can provide support to owners and operators of critical infrastructure, coordinated with other agencies like CISA. CISA can develop and share step‑by‑step mitigation protocols for cybersecurity vulnerabilities, including when software or hardware is no longer supported.
More oversight of nuclear forces
If U.S. Strategic Command finds China has more ICBMs, warheads on those missiles, or launchers than the U.S., the Commander must notify Congress and provide a deterrence plan. This notice rule ends four years after enactment. After each strategic deterrence exercise in fiscal years 2022–2032, the Commander reports within 30 days, and the Secretary sends an unedited copy to Congress within 60 days. Every 180 days, starting 90 days after enactment and for five years and 90 days, the Missile Defense Agency must tell Congress about planned tests, costs, and key test issues. The Air Force must get an independent review of GBSD development, report by 270 days after enactment, and brief on next steps. DOD must brief by March 1, 2023 on how it manages risk for fielded major weapons.
More reporting on justice and staffing
Each service must send yearly military justice demographic reports to DoD by March 1, and DoD must forward them to Congress by April 30. The Air Force must report on Nuclear and Missile Operations Officers (13N) within 90 days and with each budget from FY2023–FY2027. DoD must hire an independent group to study why female Navy surface warfare officers leave and report to Congress within a year.
More reports on Iran, Afghanistan, and influence
Within 180 days, the Director of National Intelligence must give Congress a report on Iran’s military capabilities since June 2018. By January 15, 2022, and every 90 days through December 31, 2025, Defense leaders must brief Congress on Afghanistan’s security and U.S. posture. Within 90 days, DOD and the DNI must send a plan to expose and counter foreign malign influence and provide yearly briefings through December 31, 2026.
More threat sharing for transit security
Homeland Security must assign TSA and intelligence staff to fusion centers near high‑risk transport sites. The Department shares threats while protecting privacy and civil rights and tells owners how to apply for clearances. A report is due in one year, and the Comptroller General reviews progress in two years.
National Guard help on wildfires
Until September 30, 2026, DoD must keep supporting the FireGuard wildfire detection program. California National Guard analysts help spot and monitor fires using remote sensing data.
New boards for U.S. strategy and China
A 12‑member commission reviews U.S. strategic posture, including nuclear policy. Members are appointed within 45 days and the commission advises the President and Congress. The President must also send a classified China strategy within 270 days after the next national security strategy, with an unclassified summary. A nine‑member advisory board on China is named within 60 days and briefs Congress within 30 days.
New plans for AI and tech
DoD must form a working group within 60 days and deliver a one‑year plan to build and update AI tools, with a status report at 180 days. DARPA can fund dual‑use quantum projects, subject to funding, with briefings by March 1, 2022 and yearly reports through 2026. The Secretary must send a National Defense Science and Technology Strategy and update it by February 1 after years when the National Defense Strategy is sent. A new biotech commission reports at one and two years and then ends 18 months after the final report. DoD compares U.S. and China progress in five key tech areas, with an initial briefing March 15, 2022 and reports due December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024.
New regional security and special operations plans
The Defense Secretary and Secretary of State must create a security cooperation strategy for each combatant command. An initial report is due in 180 days, then annual reports from fiscal year 2023 through 2027. Special Operations leadership must send a joint operating concept within 180 days. U.S. Northern Command must deliver an Arctic security assessment in 90 days. The Secretary may start an Arctic Security Initiative and then send a five‑year plan.
New space policy and launch oversight
When the Air Force signs a national security launch contract, it must share pricing with Congress within 30 days. DOD and the NRO should use phase two–capable providers through September 30, 2024 or explain another choice within seven days. DOD must brief on emerging launch needs within 30 days and send a report within 90 days. The Space Force must send a Range of the Future plan in 90 days with funding needs and legal fixes. The Defense Secretary and DNI must deliver a full space policy review in 180 days and update it with the fiscal year 2024–2026 budgets. Within 30 days, DOD must brief top agencies on GPS interference risks and brief Congress within seven more days. The Secretary can act to reduce space‑based threats to major test ranges.
No DoD funds for Taliban or Iran
DoD cannot give money or share military intelligence with the Taliban unless the Secretary finds it advances U.S. national security and notifies Congress within five days. DoD funds also cannot be used to transfer currency or other value to the Government of Iran, its subsidiaries, or agents.
No sole reliance on satellites
The Defense Department cannot depend only on commercial satellite services for mission‑critical needs like command, control, or targeting unless it first reduces the risk. The Secretary must put in measures to mitigate vulnerabilities before relying on a single commercial source.
Pentagon plan to cut emissions
By September 30, 2022, DoD must send Congress a plan to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The Secretary must brief Congress each year on progress toward science‑based targets.
PFAS and burn pit health steps
DoD creates a PFAS Task Force to monitor health risks, find safer firefighting foam, and coordinate cleanup, with reports due within 90 days and then quarterly. DoD must also train all its medical providers on the health effects of burn pits to improve care for exposed members.
PFAS health study funding continues
DoD can keep funding the ATSDR study on PFAS in drinking water through fiscal year 2023. The law does not set a specific dollar amount.
Radar reviews and Hawaii deadline
DoD must study AN/SPY radar systems and give Congress cost and capability recommendations by May 1, 2022. The Missile Defense Agency must certify in the FY2023 budget that planned funding will deliver a Hawaii discrimination radar and its data terminal, operational by December 31, 2028.
Reports on Russian influence and nuclear talks
DoD and State must deliver a public report on Russian influence campaigns within 180 days and every two years until April 1, 2024. When the next Nuclear Posture Review is issued, they must brief Congress on all allied consultations, listing countries, dates, topics, and feedback, with unclassified and classified parts.
Restore close‑combat task force link
Within 60 days, the Close Combat Lethality Task Force again reports directly to the Secretary and is a cross‑functional team. This stays in place until the Secretary sends Congress a plan for any new alignment that keeps benefits and coordination and explains funding. The rule does not apply if the President certifies it would be harmful and explains why.
Review of defense budget process
An independent 14‑member commission examines how DoD plans and spends money. It must give an interim report by February 6, 2023 and a final report by September 1, 2023. The commission ends 180 days after the final report.
Review of military wildfire response rules
Within 120 days, the Director must review rules for using military firefighting assets against wildfires and report to Congress. Any new rule from this review takes effect only 30 days after the report is sent.
Share more defense research info
DoD must share research and consulting information in department‑wide systems like the Defense Technical Information Center. New topics are added, including nuclear security, CBRN defense, spectrum activities, research security, and printed circuit boards. A key statutory date is extended to 2028.
Special Trial Counsel handle serious crimes
The law creates Special Trial Counsel who are licensed officers to handle certain serious offenses. They decide charging, referral, plea deals, and some rehearings for covered offenses, and their decisions bind convening authorities. These rules take effect two years after enactment (or when required regulations issue) and apply to offenses after that date.
Stronger controls on toxic cleanups
Starting no later than 120 days after enactment, DoD stops burning PFAS foam and PFAS‑contaminated materials. The pause stays until DoD issues guidance or EPA issues a final disposal rule. DoD must report within one year and then yearly for three years. The law also lets funds be moved in fiscal year 2022 to keep the Bien Hoa dioxin cleanup on track.
Stronger cyber defense and data sharing
The law boosts how government and companies work together on cybersecurity. DHS starts a voluntary pilot with internet firms within one year and cannot force anyone to join; it ends five years after enactment. DoD must run a demo of automated security checks and brief Congress, finishing by October 1, 2024. U.S. Cyber Command sets a voluntary industry engagement process by January 1, 2023 with yearly briefings through 2026. NSA and DISA compare enterprise cyber tools within 180 days and brief Congress. DoD must assess ransomware defenses within 180 days and set data policies and roles within 270 days, then brief within 300 days.
Stronger defense oversight and reports
Congress keeps access to classified defense programs they could see at enactment and to new programs going forward, including special access programs. Rescue missions to free people from hostile foreign control now trigger required notifications to Congress. The Navy must provide a ship material readiness report in both classified and public‑unclassified forms.
Tighter oversight of Navy ships
The Navy must create a Deputy Commander to oversee shipbuilding, ask for audits of very large subcontracts, and report each year by March 1. Each shipbuilding plan must list expected service life by ship class with a technical certification and disposition plans for ships retiring soon. The Navy must also send a 15‑year plan for carrier air wings by April 1, 2022.
Tighter oversight of peacekeeping aid
State must notify Congress at least 15 days before spending peacekeeping funds, listing each country, the amount, purpose, implementers, timelines, human rights monitoring, and sustainment plans. State must also send a yearly report, starting within 90 days and then for five years, covering assistance in the prior three years and its impact on capabilities and security.
Voluntary CISA cyber monitoring for industry
CISA runs CyberSentry, a voluntary program that monitors industrial control systems for critical infrastructure owners who ask and consent. It can use classified intelligence to spot and fix risks and share anonymized analysis. The Privacy Officer reviews the program within 180 days. This authority ends seven years after enactment.
Yearly space and electronic warfare briefings
The Space Force briefs Congress by February 28 each year through 2026 on threats to U.S. space operations and possible countermeasures. The same day, copies go to the National Space Council, Commerce, Transportation, and NASA. The Defense Intelligence Agency also briefs by March 31, 2022 and yearly through 2026 on electronic warfare threats with five‑year estimates.
CISA report on handling cyber flaws
CISA must send Congress an unclassified report within one year on how it coordinates vulnerability disclosures and shares fixes. The report covers policies, activity levels, plans to improve sharing with industry, whether companies acted, and privacy and civil liberties protections. A classified annex is allowed.
Airport and TSA pandemic plans
TSA must issue a plan within 90 days to improve airport screening during COVID‑19, with best practices, technologies, timelines, and costs, without lowering security. GAO will review the plan within one year if it is issued. TSA must also create a broader communicable disease preparedness plan within two years, protect TSA workers, set criteria for added screening, list obstacles like funding, share it with partners and Congress, and update it every two years.
Stronger plan to fight illicit finance
The law updates deadlines and national strategy references for countering illicit finance. Goals expand from prevention to prevention, detection, and disruption. It also broadens private‑sector engagement beyond finance to other relevant industries.
Building DoD cyber and tech talent
The Defense Acquisition University partners with outside experts and requires each faculty member to serve at least six months in an operational role every five years. DoD creates a software expert cadre by January 1, 2023. The Secretary sizes the cyber and information warfare workforce and updates education, with briefings due by November 1, 2022 and November 1, 2024. Executive education on emerging technologies starts within two years, with certification of leaders within five years. DoD must study a central office for cyber education and scholarships within 270 days, and create it within 180 days if the study supports it. The Army National Guard cybersecurity training pilot continues through 2024.
Congress review of JROTC programs
The Defense Secretary must brief Congress within one year on JROTC programs. The briefing includes enrollment numbers, demographics, unit counts, obstacles to targets, pros and cons of expansion, and diversity, recruitment, and retention efforts.
Ammo plans and multiyear helicopter buys
The Army must deliver master plans for each ammunition plant by March 31, 2022 and update them yearly through 2026. The Army can sign multiyear contracts beginning in FY2022 for AH‑64E Apache and UH‑60M/HH‑60M Black Hawk helicopters. Out‑year payments still depend on future appropriations. These steps support stable production and clearer investment needs.
Faster defense tech buying and testing
The law launches a pilot within 180 days to speed new tech into use, with at least four priority projects and tailored acquisition plans. Certain projects must include written systems engineering decisions, success criteria, and regular updates to Congress. DoD sets up a Mission Management pilot to deliver cross‑service solutions and brief Congress every six months. The Secretary can designate “reinvention labs” and use flexible personnel rules and pay schedules for demonstration projects. DoD also runs management innovation efforts and reports plans and progress to Congress.
Longer NNSA buying authority, clearer funds
The National Nuclear Security Administration keeps enhanced procurement authority through December 31, 2028 to manage supply chain risk. The law also defines “encumbered” and “unencumbered” funds for nuclear security contracts to make reporting clearer.
Modernize defense acquisition and research
The Air Force sets the start date for a space acquisition chief, no later than October 1, 2022, and can give space procurement powers to the Assistant Secretary. DoD must modernize industrial‑base data with continuous collection, analytics, secure software delivery, and supply‑chain mapping. DoD must set goals and incentives for research centers to partner with colleges and universities.
Modernize defense IT and data buying
Within one year, Defense sets up a central office to buy commercial cyber data and analytic services for the whole department. Starting 540 days after enactment, components must use those buys unless they get a lower per‑unit price or the office approves an exception; NSA is exempt. The Army, Navy, and Air Force must find legacy IT they no longer need and plan to shut it down, reporting within 270 days.
New AI and quantum coordination efforts
DoD must report each year for two years on every AI recommendation from the national AI commission and brief Congress on progress and funding. A pilot can create unclassified, labeled data libraries and tools to help public and private partners build and test AI models; a briefing is due within 270 days. A new subcommittee coordinates federal quantum R&D tracking, weighs security and counterintelligence risks, and recommends export controls and protections.
Plan for supercomputing and microelectronics
Within two years, the nuclear security agency must send a 10‑year roadmap for high‑performance computing needs, gaps, acquisition strategy, and an industrial base assessment, and get an independent review of the first acquisition. The Secretary also must competitively select at least two entities to help run a national microelectronics research network, aiming for geographic diversity.
Secure 5G on bases and abroad
Each military service must plan within 180 days and start a 5G infrastructure pilot on at least one base within one year, with updates to Congress every 180 days after it begins. The Treasury Secretary directs U.S. representatives at international financial institutions to back advanced wireless projects only when they meet security standards, with case‑by‑case waivers reported to Congress. That policy ends after seven years or sooner if ended in the national interest.
Use commercial tech for space programs
Before starting a new Space program, the acquisition leader must check if commercial options can meet the need and notify Congress within 30 days if they can. The Air Force must assess the Air Force Research Laboratory’s ability to support Space Force testing and report within 90 days on needs and plans.
Energy storage and grid resilience demos
Defense must set standards for tools that judge energy resilience, with peer review and updates at least every three years; if funded, a progress report is due by September 30, 2022. By March 1, 2022, Defense starts a joint program with Energy to demo long‑duration energy storage at different scales. Projects favor public sharing of results and real‑world, grid‑integrated pilots at bases.
Protect airlift and shipping chokepoints
Within 180 days, the Air Force must report on any plans to cut tactical airlift aircraft, including effects on domestic and contingency operations and Governor consultation. Within 180 days, Defense must assess security at key global shipping chokepoints like the Panama and Suez Canals, how long it may take to resume operations after disruptions, and ways to reduce risks.
More oversight of overseas embassy projects
The Secretary of State must report to Congress every 180 days on overseas construction and major embassy security projects. Reports start within 180 days and continue for four years. They must list original and current costs, adjustment requests, claims, contingency fund use, settlements, final payments, and estimated completion dates.
More transparency in big defense contracts
Starting with the FY2023 budget, DoD must propose any multiyear contract it plans to cancel or reduce, including termination costs, savings, use of prior funds, and industrial‑base impacts. The Navy must update its shipyard plan by September 30, 2022 and, for covered projects (contracts from Oct. 1, 2024 worth $250 million or more), brief Congress with high‑quality cost and schedule estimates before construction. DoD must also brief Congress within 180 days on how publicly available its domestic procurement waiver information is.
Plan to merge DoD budget IT systems
Within 180 days, DoD must send Congress a plan to consolidate PPBE data and budget IT systems across the services and defense agencies. The plan must address retiring and eliminating legacy systems.
Stronger anti–money laundering information sharing
The government broadens its illicit finance efforts. The interagency team now targets illicit finance, including proliferation finance and sanctions evasion. FinCEN can share Exchange information with more private-sector entities, and non-banks may use it only to help banks or agencies spot and reduce financial crime risks. These changes apply upon enactment.
Planning for shipbuilding jobs and skills
The Navy and Labor Departments collect data from private shipyards on worker ages and experience and analyze current and future labor needs. The shipbuilding report now studies if multi‑year contracts could make the industrial base more stable. These changes guide hiring, training, and procurement planning.
Easier cost recovery for contractors
DoD may allow some technology protection costs after Milestone B to count as allowable IRAD when it furthers program goals. Contracting officers must modify certain contracts as soon as practicable without requiring consideration under updated cost‑or‑pricing rules.
Faster military tech from private sector
DoD can use prize authority to award procurement contracts and must notify Congress within 15 days for awards over $10 million. DoD must issue guidance for Other Transaction Authority and extend and report on lab tech transfer through 2026, with a report due by December 31, 2025. DIU can expand outreach, subject to funding, to connect more communities and firms. The Army continues the Soldier Enhancement Program to test off‑the‑shelf gear for soldiers.
Study on CUI rules and impacts
Within 180 days of enactment, DoD must assess its Controlled Unclassified Information program. The study must examine definitions, marking practices in contracts, when commercial data becomes CUI, and effects on the supply chain. It must also recommend policy or rule changes and give clear examples.
Tighter rules for government buying
The law tightens how agencies buy goods and services. Before using special IGSA exceptions in FY2022–FY2023, Defense must send Congress a report 60 days in advance and issue guidance within one year. GSA must test new commercial e‑commerce portal models within 180 days and report on price, quality, and security. State generally must buy consulting only under contracts where spending is public. Awards tied to this Act’s funding tables must use merit‑based or competitive selection, except for Community Project Funding.
Some military travel benefits end 2021
Effective December 31, 2021, the law removes certain statutory travel and transportation authorities for service members. This can reduce travel benefits and reimbursements for those covered by the repealed sections.
Program spending capped until reviews
No more than 75% of FY2022 B‑52 engine replacement funds can be used until the Selected Acquisition Report is delivered; the FY2020 estimate is treated as the original baseline. For the Army’s HADES program, no more than 75% of FY2022 RDT&E can be used until the Vice Chairman certifies two key capabilities tied to JADC2 and standoff operations.
New contractor rules on China and training
Starting July 1, 2022, companies bidding on DoD contracts over $5 million must disclose if contract work will be done in China. Covered contractors must continue disclosures in FY2023 and FY2024, or DoD cannot award or renew the contract. DoD contractors doing corrosion prevention must employ many workers who completed or are enrolled in qualified industry‑standard training. DoD training for military and civilians must also use qualified corrosion programs.
New rules for military plea deals
Two years after enactment (or when required regulations are issued), military judges must accept plea agreements unless the proposed sentence is plainly unreasonable. Special Trial Counsel (STC) must provide a written finding when referring charges, control plea negotiations in covered cases, and decide on rehearings or dismissals. These changes apply to offenses occurring after the effective date.
Space Force staffing flex for 2022
The Air Force Secretary may change Space Force end strength for the fiscal year by up to +5% or −10% of the authorized number. This applies to actions in FY2022 and ends December 31, 2022. Changes require a determination that the adjustment improves manning and readiness.
New TRICARE network rules limit choice
DoD can set multiple TRICARE Prime and Select provider networks in the same area. It can require you to enroll in a specific network. Providers outside that network are out‑of‑network for you, even if they join another TRICARE network. This may improve local coverage in some places but can reduce your provider choice and raise out‑of‑network costs.
Cleaner rules and records for contractors
DoD must issue guidance to avoid overly narrow place‑of‑performance terms and train staff by July 1, 2022. SBA must let its Office of Hearings and Appeals decide HUBZone status appeals within one year of enactment. If SBA finds your status claim is wrong, you or SBA must update SAM within two days, and you must notify contracting officers if bids are affected. State must finish overdue performance evaluations for embassy construction contractors by April 1, 2022.
New DoD contracting rules for vendors
DoD tightens service contract reviews and extends a fast-track awards pilot. Prime contractors must now agree to pay subcontractors to qualify for prompt-payment treatment. Services Requirements Review Boards must use standard guidelines, and decision makers must certify compliance and that work was not previously done by DoD civilian employees. The DoD Inspector General can audit each year. The pilot for innovative tech awards runs through October 1, 2024, and a recommendation to Congress was due by April 1, 2023.
Clearer TSA SSI rules and input
TSA must set clear, consistent rules for marking Sensitive Security Information, track redactions and challenges, document reasons, and train staff. TSA must do stakeholder outreach within 180 days. TSA must issue aviation guidelines in 60 days and brief Congress in 90 days. Actions under those aviation guidelines are not subject to judicial review.
Guardrails on major weapons buys
The Army cannot award an OMFV physical prototype contract until a briefing, a report, and a GAO review. Only up to 75% of FY2022 funds for GMTI and IVAS can be used until required reports and assessments are filed; VC‑25B funds are capped at 50% until an approved schedule is sent. Armed Overwatch aircraft buys must wait 15 days after an acquisition roadmap is submitted. The Navy cannot buy a C‑130 test aircraft for the E‑6B mission until it submits reports and certifications. The Missile Defense Agency cannot start satellite or ground system production for a program of record, and prototype production needs Space Acquisition Council concurrence and a report.
Indo‑Pacific plans with new limits
The Pacific Deterrence Initiative may receive “such sums as necessary” per the Act’s funding tables. INDOPACOM must send an independent, fully resourced plan with the President’s FY2023 and FY2024 budgets, include line‑item costs, and brief Congress soon after. The Indo‑Pacific Maritime Security Initiative now adds human‑rights safeguards, planning alignment, and assessment and monitoring, with detailed notices to Congress. That program runs through December 31, 2027.
Limits on military construction costs
Total costs for Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defense Agencies construction cannot exceed the amounts in the Act’s funding table. Cost‑variation rules cannot push totals above those amounts. Most construction authorizations end on the later of October 1, 2024 or when FY2025 construction funding is enacted, unless money was already obligated. DoD may use O&M funds for certain overseas construction through December 31, 2023, normally capped at $15,000,000 per project unless the Secretary (non‑delegable) waives it. The notice period for this authority is 14 days.
New military justice rules and timelines
Military judges now set sentences in most courts-martial. In death‑penalty cases, members still decide death or life without parole. The law allows life without parole and explains how a sentence can be changed only by authorized action or clemency. Victims of sex‑related offenses must be told about plea deals and outcomes when cases are not sent to trial. Most changes start two years after enactment and apply to offenses after that date; if required rules are late, they start when those rules are issued.
Overseas security aid extended with checks
The law extends DoD support for irregular warfare through 2025 and Colombia assistance through 2023. It extends help for vetted Syrian groups through December 31, 2022 and allows case‑by‑case waivers with a 15‑day notice. It extends training authority for Eastern European forces through December 31, 2024 and urges more funds for Greece’s move off Russian gear, with a report due in 180 days. Only $10 million for Iraq’s Security Cooperation Office can be used until a reorganization and roadmap report is sent. The authority to accept contributions to secure nuclear and radiological materials runs through December 31, 2028.
Shift control of key weapons programs
The Air Force and Navy take over F‑35 sustainment by October 1, 2027, and F‑35 acquisition by October 1, 2029. A transition plan was due October 1, 2022. The law also sets October 1, 2023 as the date to move certain ballistic missile defense programs to the military services.
Stronger checks on toxic risks at bases
The Defense Department must review foam spill risks within 180 days and issue guidance 90 days later. The guidance must include trained supervision, use of berms, covering storm drains, and nearby cleanup supplies. DoD must test all identified sites for PFAS within two years and report yearly for fiscal years 2022–2024. The Secretary of Defense can allow burn pits at a location only in the paramount interest of the United States and must report to Congress within 30 days of any exemption.
More flexible DoD budget moves, with limits
Energy‑savings money is now available for that fiscal year and the next, not until spent. The Secretary can move remaining funds to other DoD accounts for allowed purposes and must report transfers each year. Agencies can move amounts listed in funding tables without counting against usual transfer caps, unless switching between appropriation accounts. DoD units can do reimbursable work for other DoD units to support foreign partners under specific laws, with reimbursements credited in the year the support is provided. Items marked “CPF” in the funding table may be funded without the usual merit‑based selection.
New Army armor and gear rules
The Army must set technical standards for all armor materials by June 30, 2022 and report its plan. For the Next Generation Squad Weapon, the Army must favor commercial and nondevelopmental parts, survey the market after initial testing, and report to Congress within a year. These steps open opportunities for commercial suppliers and set clearer specs for future buys.
New defense buying rules and bans
DoD may not buy certain disease‑prevention gear from North Korea, China, Russia, or Iran. Purchases of $150,000 or less are allowed, and contracts cannot be split to evade the limit. Welded shipboard anchor and mooring chain gets a domestic preference, including firms in the national technology and industrial base. Automatic inflation updates end for certain acquisition thresholds, but current regulatory adjustments stay. DoD also removes the 2017 preference for fixed‑price contracts, giving buyers more flexibility.
Easier paths for firms to sell to DoD
DoD expands ways to buy commercial innovation. New pilots, general solicitations with peer review, and a private‑partner pilot help match tech makers to programs. Large awards over $100 million need a written approval and Congress gets notice. DoD must track and publish Other Transaction data and may open industry days to allied firms when reciprocity exists. A pause starts October 1, 2022 on using the general‑solicitation authority until DoD submits a required data plan, and DoD must review insurance and losses when handling unusually hazardous indemnification requests in FY2022–FY2023.
Bases can host Coast Guard charity
Military installations can provide space and services to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. This helps Coast Guard members and families access aid on base.
Burial rights for Laos allies
People who served honorably with special guerrilla units or irregular forces operating from Laos (Feb. 28, 1961–May 7, 1975) can be buried in national cemeteries if, at death, they were U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents living in the United States.
Citizenship guidance for noncitizen service members
When a noncitizen enlists, the military must tell them about naturalization options and helpful programs. USCIS, working with DoD, must give the same information when a noncitizen leaves service.
FY2022 funding for military commissaries
The Defense Commissary Agency working capital table provides about $1.16 billion for FY2022 operations. This keeps military grocery stores and support services running, subject to available appropriations.
Gold Star family support reviewed
The four‑year quality‑of‑life review now must include support services for Gold Star families. This keeps focus on services for bereaved military families.
More funding options for commissaries
Commissary construction and repairs can now use money from host nation agreements and disaster response appropriations. Commissary revenues can also be supplemented by improved management and a variable pricing program.
Pick 1–5 year boat documentation
If you own a recreational boat, you can choose a Coast Guard documentation certificate that lasts 1 to 5 years. You can pick the term at initial issue or renewal.
Space Force officer caps paused
Limits on officer counts do not apply to the Space Force until January 1, 2023. The Air Force Secretary must submit the number of majors, lieutenant colonels, and colonels by April 1, 2022. The exemption ends on January 1, 2023.
Credit report relief for trafficking survivors
Credit agencies cannot list negative items that came from severe trafficking once you give them official 'trafficking documentation.' The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau must set rules within 180 days, including how to submit documents. The protection applies 30 days after the CFPB issues the rule.
Faster public PFAS water test results
DoD must post final PFAS water test results within 20 days. It must also publish planned testing locations and timelines within 180 days and update every 90 days. DoD must notify local water managers and municipal leaders before testing, and use EPA‑validated methods. Results from private property need the owner’s consent to publish.
Burn pit registry adds Egypt and Syria
VA’s Open Burn Pit Registry now includes Egypt and Syria. Eligible veterans who served there can record exposures. This change is effective upon enactment.
Funding for Armed Forces Retirement Home
The Armed Forces Retirement Home Trust Fund is authorized to provide $75.3 million for FY2022 operations. This supports services for residents of the Armed Forces Retirement Home.
More help for military families and survivors
The in‑home child care pilot can run in more locations, giving more service members a chance for financial help. Special Operations support now can extend to immediate family members of covered individuals who died under qualifying circumstances. These changes take effect upon enactment.
Pilot health program date and feedback
The pilot health‑care assistance system date shifts to November 1, 2022. The pilot must collect participant feedback on satisfaction and benefits from the program. This applies on enactment.
Study a housing history record for troops
DoD must study a standard housing history record for service members who live in covered military housing. It would log pre‑move‑in and post‑move‑out condition and offer contact info for providers. Members would get a copy with their DD‑214 when leaving service. The report is due by September 30, 2022.
Academy parents' rights and fair admissions
DoD must set rules within a year to let cadets and midshipmen who become parents preserve guardianship rights, consistent with academic duties. An interim briefing is due by May 1, 2022, plus a report in 180 days and a final briefing within a year. DoD must also brief Congress within 180 days on academy nominees with speech disorders, including admission data, testing, medical standards, and whether therapy is offered.
Continuing language education for military linguists
Within 180 days, DoD must set policies to provide continuing language education to linguists who moved to operational or staff roles. Within one year, DoD must set a way for Services to reimburse DoD organizations that deliver this training. The reimbursement authority ends September 30, 2025.
DHS employee engagement plans required
DHS must form an employee engagement steering committee within 120 days. A departmentwide plan is due within 120 days after that, followed by component plans with performance measures and submissions to Congress. This section ends five years after enactment.
Faster promotion consideration for some officers
Military departments may shorten the required time in grade for certain limited‑duty officers when needed, but not below two years. This lets eligible officers be considered for promotion sooner.
Lower travel costs for pets and training
Pet quarantine costs are reimbursable under the travel rules for covered moves. Reserve members on certain training without travel pay can be reimbursed for transient housing service charges or get lodging in kind when government lodging is unavailable or inadequate.
More jobs for retired service members
DoD can appoint retired service members to jobs at more locations, including defense industrial base facilities that support core logistics and Major Range and Test Facility Bases.
Overseas job help for Foreign Service families
State will help spouses and eligible family members find jobs and training overseas. When you are among the best qualified, you can get a hiring preference for some overseas jobs. Embassies may share space for job‑related training.
Overseas telework and home leave flexibility
Agencies must set policies for temporary overseas telework tied to a Foreign Service assignment under an approved DETO agreement. Except in emergencies, telework is not allowed if a job needs monthly direct handling of secure materials. Foreign Service members at unaccompanied posts may take required home leave where their family resides outside the United States.
Private lactation rooms in DoD buildings
DoD must update construction rules within one year so buildings likely used by nursing mothers include a private lactation room or space. This covers service members, civilian employees, contractors, and visitors.
Reservists can use Army job website
Within one year, the Army must let reserve component members access the Tour of Duty active‑duty opportunities website from personal devices. Access can be limited if needed to protect U.S. systems and data.
Shorter service pledge after intermission
If you use a military career intermission program, your extra required service is now one month instead of two months. This change applies upon enactment.
State Department jobs and training boost
State and USAID must post all job openings on public sites like USAJOBS and state if reinstatement‑eligible former employees may apply. State must plan within 90 days for a training float so up to 15% of staff can take long training. Family members applying to Foreign Service roles must meet the same standards as other applicants.
Two weeks bereavement leave for military
Service members can take up to two weeks of leave after the death of a spouse or child. If you have fewer than 30 days of leave, your account is not charged for this time. The rule takes effect 180 days after enactment.
Coastwise trade waiver for vessel WIDGEON
The Coast Guard may issue a coastwise endorsement for the vessel WIDGEON (U.S. official number 1299656) despite the usual restriction. This lets the vessel operate in coastwise trade.
Grants for U.S.–Israel cybersecurity teams
Homeland Security runs a grant program for U.S.–Israel cybersecurity projects. It is authorized at least $6 million per year from FY2022–FY2026. Projects generally need a 50% non‑Federal match unless DHS waives it. Awards must be unclassified and pass a counterintelligence review.
More insight on SBIR/STTR priorities
Each military department lists up to five unfunded SBIR/STTR priorities within 10 days of the President’s budget. They must also report Phase III results yearly for the budget, including total funding, topics, funding by State, and top projects. This gives small firms clearer signals on where to focus proposals.
Air Force must justify fighter cuts
Starting with the FY2023 budget, the Air Force must explain if fighter numbers drop below set levels. The report must show the reasons, capability analysis, personnel impacts, and operational risks. The key statutory date is updated to October 1, 2026.
Better help for survivors and honors
DoD must form a Casualty Assistance Reform Working Group within 180 days to improve standards and training for casualty officers and survivor services. The group must deliver recommendations by September 30, 2022, and the Secretary must report to Congress by November 1, 2022. The Maritime Administration may provide duplicate WWII mariner medals to eligible applicants. The President is authorized to award the Medal of Honor and Distinguished‑Service Cross to certain named veterans.
Better plans for evacuations and rescues abroad
The Joint Chiefs must update the U.S. plan for evacuating citizens and other noncombatants abroad by July 1, 2022. DoD must send Congress a plan within 270 days to shift funding for assisted recoveries to a different authority. After the change, using that money needs the concurrence of the relevant Chief of Mission.
Coordinate global and military health research
The U.S. takes part in CEPI, an international vaccine group. The President names a U.S. representative and, within 60 days, consults Congress on planned participation and funding. Defense also begins regular consultations with each military department on military medical research transitions by March 1, 2022 and at least every six months after.
Cyber fixes, space review, and drones
DHS runs a competition to find fixes for cyber flaws. DoD must report yearly (through 2024) on weapon‑system cybersecurity. The Air Force must brief Congress within 90 days on the prototype multi‑GNSS receiver program. The Defense Secretary must review Space Force classified programs within 120 days and start any downgrades within 90 days after the review, then report timelines and risks. DoD must implement National Guard drone recommendations by September 30, 2022.
Defense hiring and reporting extended
The law keeps temporary hiring authority for science and engineering through September 30, 2026. It extends the acquisition personnel demo through December 31, 2026. It delays parts of the acquisition reporting replacement to FY2023 and requires 2022 plans and demos. It extends certain project authorities to October 1, 2023 and moves a DHS‑DoD training report due date to December 31, 2023.
Disability rights office and accessible embassies
State creates an Office of International Disability Rights to promote accessibility in U.S. foreign work, train staff, advise on hiring, and represent U.S. views abroad. The embassy construction bureau must balance security with accessibility, following U.S. Access Board standards and the Architectural Barriers Act to the fullest extent possible.
Effective dates and legal table updates
Titles XXI–XXVII take effect on the later of October 1, 2021 or enactment. The law also automates updates to legal tables when covered defense laws add, remove, or rename sections.
Faster alerts on threats to troops
If the Defense Secretary, with the DNI, finds with high confidence that a foreign official took a substantial step to try to kill or seriously injure a U.S. service member, Congress must be notified within 14 days. The Secretary may waive notice for national security with a written reason.
Four Guard units test microreactors
DoD may select four National Guard units to test and evaluate a micro nuclear reactor program. Selection is coordinated with the Strategic Capabilities Office and the National Guard Bureau.
Funds for two base projects
The law provides $3.6 million to build a 6,000‑square‑foot recycling center at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. It also provides $20 million for a defense access road at Fort Bliss, Texas, using Defense Access Road Program funds.
Hawaii military safety and planning steps
DoD must study by April 1, 2022 whether to base an Air National Guard aeromedical squadron at Pearl Harbor‑Hickam. The Navy must hire an independent API‑certified inspector to review Red Hill fuel piping and prepare a life‑cycle plan. DoD must also assess fuel storage alternatives, including at least three sites outside Hawai‘i, and report within one year. Within 90 days, DoD leaders must brief Congress on best ways to work with Hawaii state and local governments.
Help for foreign officers at UN Command
DOD can provide services and pay expenses for covered foreign officers at the United Nations Command headquarters. Payments can cover travel, lodging, personal expenses, and medical care in limited cases. The Secretary may pay with or without reimbursement.
Higher caps for commander initiative fund
The law raises Combatant Commander Initiative Fund limits. New caps are: $25 million total and $300,000 per action under one rule, $15 million under another, and $10 million under a third. The higher caps apply upon enactment.
Improve military criminal investigations
Each military department must evaluate its criminal investigative agency within one year and report results and any reforms. Within two years, it must submit a plan to implement reforms, including staffing, training, tech needs, and timelines. Training sites cannot move until the plan is sent and 60 days after Congress is notified.
Keep Afghan aid records; ban cash flights
For FY2022, DoD cannot remove online records of U.S. military assistance to Afghan forces that were public on July 1, 2021. DoD aircraft cannot be used to move money or valuables to the Taliban or related groups.
Lab to test emergency response tech
The National Urban Security Technology Laboratory is now a Department lab. It tests and evaluates emergency‑response technologies, advises responders, and reviews cybersecurity for connected devices.
Limits on KC-135 retirements through 2023
From enactment until October 1, 2023, the Air Force may not retire more than 18 KC‑135 aircraft. Aircraft that are not mission capable due to mishap, damage, or uneconomical repair can still be retired. FY2022 funds cannot reduce KC‑135 primary mission aircraft in reserve units.
Linking military families to local help
Within 180 days, DoD must brief Congress on how base commanders connect families to local government and nonprofit services, including help with housing. The briefing must explain current practices and gaps.
More advance notice on nuclear forces
The law updates old nuclear report dates to current ones, including a February 1, 2025 deadline. DoD must give 120 days’ notice for nuclear force changes in Europe, up from 60 days. DoD must also report 180 days before changing strategic nuclear delivery force structure.
More defense oversight and readiness checks
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must certify by March 1, 2022 and yearly after if bomber alert is needed based on Minuteman III readiness, until the new ICBM is ready. The Director of Operational Test and Evaluation must report within 53 days on aircraft testing, and the Air Force must follow up 53 days later. Funding‑table rules now also cover any classified annex for this Act. DoD must brief within 180 days on enforcing contractor lobbying compliance rules.
More leadership flexibility and clearer reports
The Secretary of Defense can increase some general or flag officer seats in one service if another service reduces the same number, with a cap of 15 changes and 30 days’ notice to Congress. Counterterrorism briefings must cover using force under collective self‑defense of partners. Readiness reports must show how often service members are pulled from units or training to do work once done by civilian federal employees. Annual diversity reports must cover the academies, OCS/OTS, and Senior ROTC, and list Senior ROTC graduates by gender, race, and ethnicity.
More resilience in Sentinel Landscapes
The program now includes “restore” and adds a clear definition of “resilience” for extreme weather and environmental change. Other federal agencies are encouraged to join, and related activities appear in annual reports.
New board to set military sentences
Within two years, the President must set rules that create sentencing parameters for military crimes. A Defense board with five voting judges will propose and update categories and criteria and needs at least three yes votes to act.
New office to study unexplained aerial events
The Defense Department must set up an office to handle reports of unexplained aerial events within 180 days. The office keeps a central database, works with other agencies and allies, and can use cleared outside experts. It must give public and classified reports each year from October 31, 2022 through October 31, 2026. It must also give classified briefings at least every six months through December 31, 2026.
New plans on South Sudan and Asia
The State Department must report on U.S. policy toward South Sudan within 90 days and then yearly for five years. Senior officials must brief Congress on Burma policy within 60 days. The Secretary of State must send a Southeast Asia and ASEAN engagement strategy within 180 days and have U.S. ambassadors share it with host governments.
New State bureaus for visas and refugees
The State Department creates a Bureau of Consular Affairs and a Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration. Each has an Assistant Secretary in charge and handles consular or refugee and migration services.
New State roles for crime and outreach research
The State Department must appoint a Director for public diplomacy research within 90 days. Some audience research aimed at foreign audiences is exempt from the Paperwork Reduction Act, with privacy safeguards. The law also creates an Assistant Secretary for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement to coordinate anti‑crime work and requires annual certifications to Congress on compliance and vetting.
Oppose loans to Burma’s military
Treasury instructs U.S. officials at the IMF, World Bank, and Asian Development Bank to vote against loans to Burma’s military government. Humanitarian aid is allowed through groups not run by the military. The President can waive this case by case with a certification. The policy ends after democratic progress is certified or in 10 years.
Pause on Pueblo Depot closure, demolition
The Army cannot close or realign covered parts of the Pueblo Chemical Depot until final plans are submitted and a decision is made. For at least two years from enactment, DoD may not demolish certain clean, reusable buildings outside hazardous waste units, except to the Local Redevelopment Authority or if the Authority says the item is not needed.
Plan to train Iraqi forces
Within 180 days, Defense must deliver a plan to train and build lasting Iraqi security forces, including the Kurdish Peshmerga. The plan must detail engagement with Iraqi and Kurdistan authorities, security‑sector reform, and the status of Islamic State elements in Iraq and Syria.
Procedures for civilian harm payments
The law extends DoD authority to make payments for civilian harm until December 31, 2023. Within 180 days, DoD must set procedures to receive, review, and respond to claims. Responses can include acknowledgements, condolences, or ex gratia payments. Final policies are due within one year, and ongoing payments do not have to pause while rules are set.
Program to help find Vietnam missing
DoD may work with Vietnam to help account for missing personnel. Work can include archives, DNA capacity, and veteran exchanges. This authority ends October 1, 2026.
Protecting data and aircrew from lasers
DoD must archive Afghanistan operational data so it is searchable across the force and brief Congress by March 4, 2022 on how it was preserved. DoD must investigate all FY2021 aircraft lasing incidents and report findings by March 31, 2022. The Department will work with states to share information, track patterns, and explore eye protection, including research if needed.
Protects missile process and key fleets
The Secretary of Defense must personally consult, certify, report to Congress, and wait 120 days before changing missile defense acquisition processes, including for DoD Directive 5134.09. For FY2022, the Navy cannot use funds to retire, prepare to retire, or store any Mark VI patrol boat; a report with costs and options is due by February 15, 2022. For FY2022, the Air Force cannot use funds to retire, prepare to retire, or store any A‑10 aircraft, unless the Secretary certifies a specific plane was lost to a Class A mishap and not due to lack of maintenance.
Public Diplomacy Commission now permanent
The U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy continues permanently. The law removes the prior end date of October 1, 2021.
Public list of Defense reports
Starting one year after enactment, the Defense Department must post summaries by January 1 and July 1 listing every statutory report it sent to Congress in the prior six months, with title, delivery date, and the law section.
Public list of Defense reports
Starting one year after enactment, the Defense Department must post summaries by January 1 and July 1 listing every statutory report it sent to Congress in the prior six months, with title, delivery date, and the law section.
Reports on COVID and extremism
Within 180 days, Defense must report on any COVID‑19–like illnesses among U.S. athletes and staff tied to the 2019 World Military Games, including test results and related outbreaks. Within 180 days, Defense must also give Congress recommendations on whether to add a separate violent extremism offense to the military justice code.
Security briefings for U.S. staff abroad
Within one year, State must require current threat briefings for U.S. Government employees traveling overseas on official business, given before arrival when possible. When committees ask, State must also share information on security problems at embassies and consulates, including upgrade requests from the past year.
Special Trial Counsel rules cover Coast Guard
DoD must work with DHS so Special Trial Counsel rules and related policies also apply to the Coast Guard when it operates within DHS. This extends those legal procedures to Coast Guard personnel.
Stops privately funded interstate Guard deployments
Guard members cannot be ordered to cross state lines for duty paid with private money, except to respond to a major disaster or emergency under the Stafford Act.
Stricter rules on foreign aid and partners
The law tightens control of U.S. help to foreign forces and governments. DoD support for stabilization only goes to countries the Defense and State secretaries approve, or to Global Fragility Act priority areas where DoD can support, and this authority lasts through December 31, 2023. Counter‑ISIS funds only support partner forces that meet the listed legal rules. The U.S. cannot give assistance to a government that has been in default on a U.S. loan for over one year unless the President, after consulting Congress, finds it is in the national interest. DoD funds may not go to the Badr Organization. The annual drug‑control report must list units and operations funded by the State Department’s narcotics bureau where U.S. law enforcement was present.
Stricter spending guardrails and art cap
Buying a single art piece over $37,500 for U.S. embassies requires prior consultation and notification to Congress; a cost report for FY2016–FY2020 is due in 90 days, and the rule ends two years after enactment. Also, no message—oral or written—about funding‑table amounts can override what the law requires.
Stronger base building and energy planning
DoD planners must consider microgrids for U.S. military construction that can island and run for at least seven days, with rules in place by September 1, 2022. If funded, DoD improves its energy‑resilience tools and reports by September 30, 2022. Base commanders must consult state and local governments when making or updating master plans. This Act does not authorize a new BRAC round. The law also sets size and scope limits for specific Tyndall Air Force Base projects, defining what can be built.
Stronger federal cyber planning and staff
The national cyber incident plan updates at least every two years. Federal cyber leaders must engage and educate stakeholders on roles and response. The DoD CIO now oversees certain NSA cybersecurity work funded by a specific program. The National Cyber Director can accept federal employees or service members on nonreimbursable detail for up to three years.
Stronger military justice and prevention
The law builds a Primary Prevention Workforce to reduce violence in the ranks. The Defense Secretary must deliver a model within 180 days, and each service must submit its plan within one year. The Military Justice Review Panel is re‑established and kept fully functional within 30 days. The GAO studies how separation boards operate. The services must brief by March 1, 2022 and report within one year on staff, funding, and other needs to carry out justice reforms.
Stronger oversight of space and cyber programs
DoD uses one cybersecurity advisory consortium, chaired by the National Defense University’s College of Information and Cyberspace, and meets at least twice a year. Oversight now includes alternative position, navigation, and timing methods. The Space Development Agency gets contracting and milestone authority for tranche 0 (by Sept. 30, 2022) and tranche 1 (by Sept. 30, 2024) programs, with rescissions reported to Congress in 30 days. The Under Secretary for Research and Engineering is the JROC’s chief technical advisor, with an independent study due to Congress by December 31, 2022 and a recommendations report by March 1, 2023. The Space Acquisition Council reviews key space architecture decisions, must notify Congress within 10 business days, and a 30‑day hold applies unless the Secretary of Defense waives for urgent needs; the Chief of Space Operations is designated the force design architect within 90 days of enactment. The Principal Cyber Advisor must be a Senate‑confirmed official from the Policy Office, and a related briefing to Congress is due in 90 days.
Support tools for Navy and Arctic centers
The Navy can partner with nonprofits to build and operate a National Museum of the U.S. Navy, accept gifts, lease parts of the museum, and license Navy marks with safeguards. The Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies can accept donations like other regional security centers.
Tighter limits on Russia and China ties
Tours by Russian or Chinese nationals of Aegis, THAAD, or Ground‑based Midcourse Defense sites require a certification to Congress and a 45‑day wait, with no technical data shared. Limits on some U.S.–Russia military cooperation now also cover 2022. For FY2022, DoD funds cannot support any activity that recognizes Russian sovereignty over Crimea unless waived with notice to Congress. Treasury gets stronger anti‑money‑laundering tools, including using classified evidence in court, penalties, and injunctions. For FY2022, DoD may not fund EcoHealth Alliance work in China that China supports, unless waived and justified to Congress within 14 days.
Track reliance on commercial satellites
Through FY2025, the Defense Secretary must brief Congress at least quarterly on the commercial satellite data and services used, the risks of relying on them, possible fixes, and actions taken that quarter.
Training to spot foreign influence
DoD must set up a working group within one year to identify how foreign adversaries try to influence servicemembers and DoD civilians. The group coordinates training to build information literacy and consults the Foreign Malign Influence Response Center. DoD must report to Congress within 18 months of starting the group, including metrics and actual costs.
Travel program fix and security training
If your Trusted Traveler status was revoked in error, when you reenroll your active time is extended by the days you lost. DHS can create training for law enforcement to protect surface transportation, with reports to Congress if implemented. TSA can detail non‑frontline staff to other agencies to help prepare for and respond to public health threats in transportation, with a briefing due in 180 days.
Help for Pueblo base closure redevelopment
DoD can give grants and make agreements to help the Local Redevelopment Authority plan for the closure of the Pueblo Chemical Depot and its pilot plant. Help is allowed when the Secretary finds the closure will likely harm nearby communities. Funds support planning and local economic diversification.
Longer timelines for transit security grants
Public transportation security grants now stay available for at least 36 months. For certain listed uses, funds stay available for at least 48 months. This gives transit agencies more time to complete projects.
Transit security grants can fund backfill
Transit agencies can use public transportation security grants to pay for backfill when staff attend security training. This change broadens how existing grant money can be used. It does not add new funding.
Better planning for overseas embassies
The State Department must use design‑build by default for new diplomatic posts unless it explains in writing why not. It must project long‑term staffing and space needs for each new embassy and consulate and include growth assumptions in site notices to Congress. The Department must deliver a six‑year plan for building, maintenance, and sustainment within 180 days and update it annually for five years.
Catawba trust land and gaming rules
About 17 acres in Cleveland County, NC, are confirmed in trust for the Catawba Indian Nation and treated as reservation land. Section 14 of the 1993 Act applies only to gaming in South Carolina. Gaming on Catawba lands in other States follows the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
Better hiring reports and DHS workforce plans
The federal Chief Human Capital Officers Council must send Congress a yearly report on hiring barriers, including for digital jobs, and OPM must post it within 30 days. DHS expands its workforce duties to include leadership development, employee engagement, a training catalogue, 90‑day reviews of morale surveys, and due‑process checks for discipline. DHS may name a Chief Learning and Engagement Officer and add more reporting on training and retention.
Defense education programs get added support
In FY2022, DoD can add up to $5 million for State National Guard Youth Challenge Programs for start‑up or workforce development without matching; states not meeting matching rules cannot get this money. JROTC STEM grants can now cover quantum information sciences. The Defense Institute of International Legal Studies can hire civilian faculty under existing authority.
More support for foreign service families
State must brief Congress within 120 days on the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps, including hiring preferences, clearances, and enrollment. Within 90 days, agencies with approved DETO telework policies get access to ICASS overseas support. State must commission a study on how allowances shape assignments, with an interim report in 180 days and a final report within one year.
More voices on special-needs military panel
The advisory panel for military families with special needs grows from 7 to 9 members. Seats must include spouses, junior personnel, someone from a remote installation, and at least two active‑duty members with dependents in EFMP who have individualized education programs.
New rules for service academy governance
Each academy’s Board of Visitors can call one official meeting a year by majority vote, and members may attend in person or remotely. Successors to Board members are appointed or designated by the President. The Air Force Academy cannot set up civilian faculty tenure until the Secretary delivers a detailed report to Congress on mission impact, governance, numbers, budget, and termination rules.
Recruiting and classifying federal tech jobs
DoD names a chief digital recruiting officer within 270 days to find civilian digital talent and may use bonuses when allowed. This role and its reports run through September 30, 2025. OPM must create or update federal job series for software and data roles within 270 days.
More flexible use of Navy-linked property
Navy museums can lease or license parts of their facilities to their support foundations to run programs. The University of California San Diego may use former Navy property for technology innovation, entrepreneurship, and incubators, with the Navy amending the deed if needed.
Pilot boosts U.S. explosives-detection dogs
DoD runs a pilot through October 1, 2024 to assess at least 250 domestically bred detection dogs each year. It collects and shares health and training data and reviews pricing rules for buying domestic vs. foreign dogs. Breeders and veterinary programs can engage with DoD through this pilot.
2022 funds for nuclear safety and oil
The law authorizes $31 million in FY2022 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. It also authorizes $13.65 million in FY2022 for naval petroleum reserve activities, with those funds available until spent.
DHS tracks critical supply chain risks
Homeland Security studies key economic‑security risks like supply chain weak points and sector consolidation. The first public report comes one year after the law and then yearly through 2026. Congress authorizes $1 million each year from 2022 to 2026 for this work.
Extra time for past construction projects
Wiesbaden’s hazardous material storage project stays authorized until October 1, 2023, or until the FY2024 military construction law is enacted. Certain FY2017 Air Force project approvals are also kept active through the same date.
Funds for nuclear security facility upgrades
The law authorizes FY2022 funds for specified NNSA plant projects, including $13.827 million for power sources capability at Sandia, $41.62 million for a chemistry and radiological health building at Knolls, and other listed projects. These funds support labs and their contractors.
Modernizing depots and cutting base emissions
DoD reviews ship sustainment goals within 90 days and reports by 180 days. It creates a digital twin for at least one depot to model layouts, logistics, and new manufacturing tech, then reports cost and efficiency findings. The Secretary may run an emissions‑tracking pilot at four major bases in different U.S. regions to find savings and efficiencies. DoD must test at least one U.S. biobased corrosion control product within 120 days and, if it meets standards, issue deployment recommendations.
New supply-chain studies for key items
DoD adds six items to required sourcing and capacity reviews, with analyses due by January 15, 2023 for the new items. These include beef products, molybdenum alloys, optical transmission equipment, armor for tactical vehicles, graphite processing, and advanced AC‑DC power converters.
Tested marine tech guides U.S. policy
Results from emerging marine technology pilots must inform U.S. maritime rules and U.S. positions at the International Maritime Organization. This ties real‑world tests to policy and international talks.
Testing U.S. critical minerals recovery
DoD starts a one‑year demo within 120 days to recover rare earths and critical minerals from acid mine drainage and coal byproducts. It seeks university partners, tests separation methods, evaluates commercial scale‑up, and looks at domestic deployment. DoD must brief Congress within 120 days after the demo ends.
Briefing on Bank Secrecy Act exams
Treasury must brief Congress within one year on delegation of Bank Secrecy Act examination authority. The briefing covers which agencies examine, how often, whether resources are adequate, and examiner training and support.
DoD charter flights can carry cargo
The charter air transport statute now clearly covers cargo as well as personnel. This helps DoD logistics and planning with air carriers. It takes effect upon enactment.
U.S. pushes IMF debt contract help
Treasury must direct the U.S. IMF Director to promote better sovereign debt contract standards and IMF technical help, especially for lower middle‑income and IDA‑eligible countries. Treasury reports to Congress within one year and then yearly for four more years. This authority sunsets after five years.
Research grants for underfunded States
DoD’s DEPSCoR program gives competitive grants to universities in eligible States with historically lower DoD research funding. The Under Secretary uses a formula based on prior DoD obligations to pick eligible States. Grants can fund research, equipment, and graduate students, and encourage work with DoD labs.
Broader ‘domestic’ status for satellite firms
Companies that operate in the U.S. and have an active National Industrial Security Program mitigation agreement count as “domestic” for commercial remote sensing. The NRO or NGA Directors can exclude a company by sending a national‑security justification to Congress.
More transparency on facility HVAC standards
When DoD proposes changes to facility rules for variable refrigerant flow systems, it must publish them for at least 60 days of public comment. DoD must also send a written notice and justification to Congress within 30 days of publication.
State to widen embassy builder pool
Within 45 days, State must report how it will expand the pool of embassy construction contractors. The goal is more competition and better value in construction awards.
Support for U.S. firms at expositions
The State Department is authorized $20 million to support U.S. pavilions and exhibits at international fairs. Actual spending depends on future appropriations. This can help U.S. businesses showcase products abroad.
New limits on Pentagon jobs and DC Guard pay
Former commissioned officers must wait longer before taking certain top civilian DoD jobs. The wait is seven years for grades below O‑7 and ten years for O‑7 and above to become Secretary of Defense, and seven years for other listed posts. The law also removes a rule that allowed certain federal or DC employees to have amounts credited against their pay for service in the DC National Guard on or after enactment.
Air Force and Navy travel caps
For FY2022, the Air Force can use only 35% of Secretary’s travel funds until tanker reports and plans (KC‑Y and KC‑Z) are sent to Congress. The Navy can use only 75% of Secretary’s travel funds until the Secretary submits written communications about the sea‑launched cruise missile budget.
Guantanamo detainee limits extended
The law keeps in place, through December 31, 2022, bans on using funds to transfer detainees to the U.S. or certain countries and to build or modify U.S. facilities for them. It also keeps the ban on closing or relinquishing the Guantanamo base for fiscal years through 2022.
Pentagon HQ funds held until reports
For FY2022, only up to 75% of OSD travel funds can be used until certain reports are sent to Congress. Only up to 75% of OSD Defense‑wide operations funds can be used until two reports are filed and 15 days pass. Only up to 75% of Policy Office funds can be used until a required 2021 report is submitted. Separately, no more than 90% of OSD travel funds can be used until required independent review agreements are in place.
Targeted funds for allies and training
The law authorizes up to $20,000,000 each year through September 30, 2024 for Defense activities that boost competition below war, with up to $3,000,000 a year for certain personnel costs. It authorizes $1.8 million each year in 2022–2026 for U.S. training of Greek military leaders. For FY2022, DoD can spend up to $2,000,000 to cover travel and subsistence for friendly foreign forces to train in Colombia, with 15‑day prior notice to Congress. DoD also launches a pilot to assess partner countries and expand opportunities for women in their security forces.
Stricter rules for defense fuel and sourcing
For fuel contracts supporting overseas operations signed on or after enactment, bidders must certify the fuel is not from banned countries and provide records showing compliance with anti‑corruption, export, and sanctions rules when DoD requires it. Contracting officers should consider tradeoffs and must justify in writing if they do not. DoD must also report each year by February 1, 2023–2025 on reported violations of Buy American‑type laws, listing the contractor, contract, violation, source of the report, and actions taken.
Retail pickup for TRICARE maintenance drugs
TRICARE must run a pilot that lets you get non‑generic maintenance medicines at retail pharmacies. Retail pharmacy pay rates cannot exceed the mail‑order program’s net rate after discounts and fees. The Secretary must brief Congress within 90 days, and the report deadline is March 1, 2025.
Goldwater Scholarships: wider access and new investments
More students qualify for Barry Goldwater Scholarships, including permanent residents and certain citizens under the Compacts of Free Association. Treasury can invest Foundation funds in U.S. market securities when the Board determines it is needed. The Foundation can hire up to three employees outside the competitive service (up to GS‑15 pay) and spend up to 5% on scholar career programs and up to 5% on fundraising.
New rules for Foreign Service suspensions
A member can be indefinitely suspended without duties. If a security clearance stays suspended for more than a year, the Secretary of State must report to Congress within 30 days after that year ends. Suspension without pay under certain grounds may occur only after a final written decision.
Overtime rules change for firefighters
In approved trade‑of‑time swaps, a federal firefighter’s traded hours are ignored when figuring overtime under 5 U.S.C. 5542. Swaps must be voluntary, between two firefighters under the same fire chief, and approved by the agency. OPM may issue rules on how to count hours for both firefighters.
Fishermen claims depend on appropriations
Payments under the Fishermen’s Protective Act can only be made if Congress provides money in advance. The Secretary may still make agreements and pay certain past claims retroactively when authorized.
Changes to CBP donation program rules
CBP can accept larger donations for ports of entry, raising the limit from $50 million to $75 million over five years. Donors must pay operation, maintenance, and repair costs of donated real property until CBP says otherwise. Leased land now counts, reports become biennial, and the program ends December 31, 2026.
FY2022 Reserve and Guard headcounts set
The law sets Selected Reserve end strengths for September 30, 2022, such as Army National Guard 336,000 and Army Reserve 189,500. It also sets caps for full‑time support roles, such as Army National Guard 30,845 and Army Reserve 16,511. Counts go down when units or members are on active duty and go up when they return.
Higher DOE minor construction thresholds
The Department of Energy can treat more projects as minor construction. The plant minor construction limit rises to $25 million, and the design threshold rises to $5 million. But projects over $5 million need congressional defense committee notification, and DOE must wait 15 days before starting.
Lower cap on coalition reimbursements
The law extends reimbursement authority for coalition partners through December 31, 2022. It lowers the ceiling for that period to $60 million, down from $180 million. This reduces the maximum federal reimbursements allowed in that time window.
More oversight of envoys and embassies
State Department jobs with big authority and titles like Special Envoy now need Senate confirmation for appointments on or after January 3, 2023. Temporary high‑authority appointments can last up to 180 days and be renewed once. Before using a non‑standard design for a new embassy or consulate, State must consult Congress and provide cost, schedule, and security comparisons. That consultation rule covers projects already in design and ends four years after enactment.
New counting rules for Guard duty
For Reserve and National Guard members, the test for counting active duty toward end strengths changes to 1,825 days in the last 2,190 days. This shifts how service is credited for force planning.
Base land transfers for local use
The Navy can sell about 30 acres to Havelock, NC, for parks, and may lease it to the city until the sale is complete. The Navy can sell about 8 acres in Virginia Beach, VA, and may remove prior land‑use limits. The Air Force can sell about 10 acres at Joint Base Cape Cod to Massachusetts. Buyers must pay fair market value and cover conveyance costs; excess advance payments can be refunded. The Army must plan closure and disposal for the Pueblo Chemical Depot within 180 days. The NNSA must release its rights and transfer the Allium Court property to local groups without reimbursement.
Navy land sale for Virginia Beach school
The Navy may convey about 2.77 acres at Naval Air Station Oceana to the Virginia Beach school board for education. The school board must pay at least fair market value and all due‑diligence costs, and it may not use Federal funds for these payments. Cash goes to a Treasury account, and any excess advance payment can be refunded. Existing easements and restrictions still apply.
Tougher oversight of federal employee conduct
GAO must review DHS discipline and adverse actions within 120 days. DHS then creates and starts a plan to fix any problems. At State, employees are warned they may face discipline, including suspension without pay or removal, if they fail to give OIG interviews or documents within 60 days in noncriminal matters. The OIG and USAGM report noncompliance starting 180 days after enactment and then quarterly. NNSA must report each year on clearance revocations, terminations, and removals for cause.
Advanced degaussing on future destroyers
The Navy must include an advanced degaussing system on any Arleigh Burke destroyer procured in FY2025 or later under a covered contract. This adds technical requirements for shipbuilders and can affect costs.
Reimbursement process tied to FCC order
After estimating damages tied to FCC Order 20‑48, DoD can work with affected licensees to recover DoD costs. Licensees can reimburse DoD only to the extent Congress provides appropriations. DoD must report to Congress within 90 days after setting up the reimbursement process.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Sen. Scott, Rick [R-FL]
FL • R
Cosponsors
There are no cosponsors for this bill.
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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