CHAPTER 101—TRAINING GENERALLY

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title V, §552(b)(1), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1735, added item 2001.

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title V, §§551(b)(2), 553(b)(2), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1386, 1387, substituted "Detail as students at law schools; commissioned officers; certain enlisted members" for "Detail of commissioned officers as students at law schools" in item 2004 and added item 2017.

2016—Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title XII, §1244(d), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2518, struck out items 2010 "Participation of developing countries in combined exercises: payment of incremental expenses" and 2011 "Special operations forces: training with friendly foreign forces".

2014—Pub. L. 113–291, div. A, title V, §551(b), Dec. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 3377, substituted "Program to assist members in obtaining professional credentials" for "Payment of expenses to obtain professional credentials" in item 2015.

2013—Pub. L. 113–66, div. A, title V, §541(b), Dec. 26, 2013, 127 Stat. 762, added item 2006a.

2009—Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title V, §§521(b), 525(b)(2), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2285, 2287, added items 2004b and 2016.

2006—Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title V, §536(b), Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2209, added item 2004a.

Pub. L. 109–163, div. A, title V, §538(b), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3250, added item 2015.

1997—Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title III, §325(b), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1679, added item 2014.

1996—Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title III, §362(a)(2), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2493, added item 2013.

Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title V, §572(b), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 355, added item 2012.

1994—Pub. L. 103–337, div. A, title XVI, §1671(b)(12), Oct. 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 3014, struck out item 2001 "Reserve components".

1991—Pub. L. 102–190, div. A, title X, §1052(a)(2), Dec. 5, 1991, 105 Stat. 1471, added item 2011.

1990—Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XIV, §1484(i)(3)(B), (4)(B), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1718, struck out "of the military departments" after "officers" in item 2004 and substituted "Payment" for "Limitation on payment" in item 2007.

1986—Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title XIII, §1321(a)(2), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3988, added item 2010.

1984—Pub. L. 98–525, title VII, §706(a)(2), title XIV, §§1401(g)(2), 1405(31), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2570, 2619, 2624, substituted a colon for a semicolon in item 2003 and added items 2006 to 2009.

1980—Pub. L. 96–357, §2(b), Sept. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 1182, added item 2005.

1973—Pub. L. 93–155, title VIII, §817(b), Nov. 16, 1973, 87 Stat. 622, added item 2004.

1971—Pub. L. 92–168, §4(2), Nov. 24, 1971, 85 Stat. 489, added item 2003.

1970—Pub. L. 91–278, §2(3), June 12, 1970, 84 Stat. 306, substituted "armed forces" for "Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps" in item 2002.

1965—Pub. L. 89–160, §1(2), Sept. 1, 1965, 79 Stat. 615, added item 2002.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Protection and Legal Preparedness for Members of the Armed Forces Abroad

Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title XII, §1229, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 456, provided that:

"(a) Review and Briefing Required.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than December 31, 2024, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall—

"(A) review the legal protections afforded by bilateral agreements between the United States and the countries listed in paragraph (2), and how the rights and privileges afforded under such agreements may differ from United States law; and

"(B) brief the appropriate congressional committees on the findings of the review.

"(2) Countries listed.—The countries listed in this paragraph are the following:

"(A) Australia.

"(B) Bahrain.

"(C) Germany.

"(D) Italy.

"(E) Japan.

"(F) Kuwait.

"(G) Qatar.

"(H) South Korea.

"(I) Spain.

"(J) Turkey.

"(K) The United Kingdom.

"(L) Any other country the Secretary of Defense determines to be appropriate.

"(3) Matters to be included.—The review required by paragraph (1)(A) shall address whether the legal protections afforded by bilateral agreements between the United States and the countries listed in paragraph (2) provide members of the Armed Forces who are stationed in the country, and the spouses and dependents of such members who are covered by the agreements, with the right to legal counsel, access to competent language translation services, a prompt and speedy trial, the right to be confronted with witnesses against the member, spouse, or dependent, and a compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in favor of the member, spouse, or dependent if the witness is located in the jurisdiction of the country.

"(4) Appropriate congressional committees defined.—In this subsection, the term 'appropriate congressional committees' means—

"(A) the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives; and

"(B) the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate.

"(b) Training Required.—The Secretary of Defense shall review and improve as necessary training and educational materials for members of the Armed Forces who are stationed in a country reviewed pursuant to subsection (a)(1)(A), and the spouses and dependents of such members who are covered by the agreements, regarding relevant foreign laws, how such foreign laws may differ from the laws of the United States, and the rights of accused in common scenarios under such foreign laws.

"(c) Translation Standards and Readiness.—The Secretary of Defense shall review foreign language standards for members of the Armed Forces and employees of the Department of Defense who are responsible for providing foreign language translation services in situations involving foreign law enforcement where such a member or employee may be being detained, to ensure such members and employees maintain an appropriate proficiency in the legal terminology and meaning of essential terms in a relevant language."

Course of Education and Pilot Program on Authentication of Digital Content Provenance for Certain Department of Defense Media Content

Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title XV, §1524, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 554, provided that:

"(a) Course of Education.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 22, 2023], the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Director of the Defense Media Activity, shall establish a course of education at the Defense Information School, the purpose of which shall be to provide instruction on the practical concepts and skills needed by public affairs, audiovisual, visual information, and records management specialists to understand the following:

"(A) Digital content provenance for applicable Department media content.

"(B) The challenges posed to missions and operations of the Department by a digital content forgery.

"(C) How industry open technical standards may be used to authenticate the digital content provenance of applicable Department media content.

"(2) Matters.—The course of education under paragraph (1) shall cover the following matters:

"(A) The challenges to missions and operations of the Department posed by a digital content forgery.

"(B) The development of industry open technical standards for authenticating the digital content provenance of applicable Department media content.

"(C) Hands-on training on techniques to record secure and authenticated digital content to document and communicate relevant themes and messages of the Department.

"(D) Training on—

"(i) the use of industry open technical standards for authenticating digital content provenance in the completion of post-production tasks; and

"(ii) the transmission of applicable Department media content in both operational and nonoperational environments.

"(E) Such other matters as the Director of the Defense Media Activity considers appropriate.

"(3) Report.—Not later than one year after the date of the establishment of the course of education under paragraph (1), the Director of the Defense Media Activity shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report on the following:

"(A) The status of the development of a curriculum for such course of education.

"(B) The implementation plan of the Director for such course of education, including the following:

"(i) The expertise and qualifications of the personnel of the Department responsible for teaching such course of education.

"(ii) The list of sources consulted or otherwise used to develop the curriculum for such course of education.

"(iii) A description of the industry open technical standards referred to in paragraph (1)(C).

"(iv) The status of the implementation of such course of education.

"(C) The resources available to the Director to carry out this subsection and whether the Director requires any additional resources to carry out this subsection.

"(b) Pilot Program on Implementing Digital Content Provenance Standards.—

"(1) Pilot program.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Defense Media Activity shall carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of implementing industry open technical standards for digital content provenance for official photographs and videos of the Department of Defense publicly released by the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service, or any successor operation, and other distribution platforms, systems, and services used by the Department of Defense (in this subsection referred to as the 'pilot program').

"(2) Elements.—In carrying out the pilot program, the Director of the Defense Media Activity shall—

"(A) establish a process for using industry open technical standards to verify the digital content provenance of applicable Department media content;

"(B) apply technology solutions that comport with industry open technical standard for digital content provenance to photographs and videos of the Department publicly released as described in paragraph (1) after the date of the enactment of this Act;

"(C) assess the feasibility and advisability of applying an industry open technical standard for digital content provenance to historical visual information records of the Department stored at the Defense Visual Information Records Center; and

"(D) develop and apply measure of effectiveness for the implementation of the pilot program.

"(3) Consultation.—In carrying out the pilot program, the Director of the Defense Media Activity may consult with federally funded research and development centers, entities within private industry, institutions of higher education, and such other entities as the Director considers appropriate.

"(4) Termination.—The pilot program shall terminate on January 1, 2027.

"(5) Report.—

"(A) In general.—Not later than January 1, 2026, the Director of the Defense Media Activity shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report on the pilot program.

"(B) Elements.—The report under subparagraph (A) shall include the following:

"(i) The findings of the Director with respect to the pilot program.

"(ii) The name of each entity the Director consulted with pursuant to paragraph (3) in carrying out the pilot program.

"(iii) An assessment by the Director of the effectiveness of the pilot program.

"(iv) A recommendation by the Director as to whether the pilot program should be made permanent.

"(c) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) The term 'applicable Department media content' means any media holding generated, stored, or controlled by the Defense Media Activity.

"(2) The term 'digital content forgery' means the use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques, to fabricate or manipulate audio, visual, or text content with the intent to mislead.

"(3) The term 'digital content provenance' means the verifiable chronology of the origin and history of an image, video, audio recording, electronic document, or other form of digital content."

Continuing Education Curriculum on Use of Innovative Products for Military Construction Projects

Pub. L. 118–31, div. B, title XXVIII, §2886, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 783, provided that:

"(a) Curriculum Required.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 22, 2023], the Commander of the Naval Facilities Systems Engineering Command and the Deputy Commanding General for Military and International Operations for the Army Corps of Engineers, shall establish a joint continuing education curriculum for the following individuals responsible for managing military construction projects and planning and design projects within the Department of Defense:

"(1) Project managers.

"(2) Program managers.

"(3) Design professionals.

"(4) Contracting officers.

"(5) Representatives of such contracting officers.

"(b) Elements.—The curriculum under subsection (a) shall include training on—

"(1) cost estimating and cost control mechanisms, including analyses of contract types;

"(2) standards relating to antiterrorism force protection, lateral wind, seismic activity, and fire performance;

"(3) life-cycle sustainability and renewability;

"(4) use of innovative building materials (including sustainable materials) and innovative construction methods; and

"(5) designs to improve the resilience of military installations.

"(c) Provision of Training; Curriculum Updates.—The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that—

"(1) not later than 180 days after the date of the completion of the curriculum under subsection (a), such curriculum is made available to the contracting officers and program managers described in such subsection;

"(2) by not later than January 1, 2025—

"(A) not less than 75 percent of the individuals described in paragraphs (1) through (5) of such subsection have completed the continuing education curriculum required under such subsection in effect as of such date; and

"(B) such individuals are provided updated information on innovative construction techniques on a continuous basis; and

"(3) such curriculum is updated each time an innovative product or construction method is included in the Unified Facilities Criteria/DoD Building Code (UFC 1–200–01).

"(d) Report.—Not later than June 1, 2025, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to Committees on Armed Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report that includes—

"(1) an update on the status of the curriculum under subsection (a); and

"(2) a plan for administering such curriculum to the individuals described in paragraphs (1) through (5) of such subsection.

"(e) Definitions.—In this section, the terms 'military construction project' and 'military installation' have the meanings given in section 2801 of title 10, United States Code."

Pilot Program on Scholarship-For-Service for Civilian Behavioral Health Providers

Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VII, §737(b), (e), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2671, 2674, provided that:

"(b) Pilot Program on Scholarship-for-service for Civilian Behavioral Health Providers.—

"(1) Pilot program.—Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2022], the Secretary of Defense shall commence the conduct of a pilot program under which—

"(A) the Secretary may provide—

"(i) scholarships to cover tuition and related fees at an institution of higher education to an individual enrolled in a program of study leading to a graduate degree in clinical psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field (as determined by the Secretary); and

"(ii) student loan repayment assistance to a credentialed behavioral health provider who has a graduate degree in clinical psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field (as determined by the Secretary); and

"(B) in exchange for such assistance, the recipient shall commit to work as a covered civilian behavioral health provider in accordance with paragraph (2).

"(2) Post-award employment obligations.—

"(A) In general.—Subject to subparagraph (B), as a condition of receiving assistance under paragraph (1), the recipient of such assistance shall enter into an agreement with the Secretary of Defense pursuant to which the recipient agrees to work on a full-time basis as a covered civilian behavioral health provider for a period of a duration that is at least equivalent to the period during which the recipient received assistance under such paragraph.

"(B) Other terms and conditions.—An agreement entered into pursuant to subparagraph (A) may include such other terms and conditions as the Secretary of Defense may determine necessary to protect the interests of the United States or otherwise appropriate for purposes of this section, including terms and conditions providing for limited exceptions from the post-award employment obligation specified in such subparagraph.

"(3) Repayment.—

"(A) In general.—An individual who receives assistance under paragraph (1) and does not complete the employment obligation required under the agreement entered into pursuant to paragraph (2) shall repay to the Secretary of Defense a prorated portion of the financial assistance received by the individual under paragraph (1).

"(B) Determination of amount.—The amount of any repayment required under subparagraph (A) shall be determined by the Secretary.

"(4) Duration.—The authority to carry out the pilot program under paragraph (1) shall terminate on the date that is 10 years after the date on which such pilot program commences.

"(5) Implementation plan.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the House of Representatives and the Senate a plan for the implementation of this section.

"(6) Reports.—

"(A) In general.—Not later than each of one year and five years after the commencement of the pilot program under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the House of Representative and the Senate a report on the pilot program.

"(B) Elements.—Each report under subparagraph (A) shall include, with respect to the pilot program under subsection (1), the following:

"(i) The number of students receiving scholarships under the pilot program.

"(ii) The institutions of higher education at which such students are enrolled.

"(iii) The total amount of financial assistance expended under the pilot program per academic year.

"(iv) The average scholarship amount per student under the pilot program.

"(v) The number of students hired as covered behavioral health providers pursuant to the pilot program.

"(vi) Any recommendations for terminating the pilot program, extending the pilot program, or making the pilot program permanent.

"(e) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) The term 'behavioral health' includes psychiatry, clinical psychology, social work, counseling, and related fields.

"(2) The term 'civilian behavioral health provider' means a behavioral health provider who is a civilian employee of the Department of Defense.

"(3) The term 'counselor' means an individual who holds—

"(A) a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited graduate program in—

"(i) marriage and family therapy; or

"(ii) clinical mental health counseling; and

"(B) a current license or certification from a State that grants the individual the authority to provide counseling services as an independent practitioner in the respective field of the individual.

"(4) The term 'covered civilian behavioral health provider' means a civilian behavioral health provider whose employment by the Secretary of Defense involves the provision of behavioral health services at a military medical treatment facility.

"(5) The term 'institution of higher education' has the meaning given that term in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001).

"(6) The term 'military behavioral health provider' means a behavioral health provider who is a member of the Armed Forces.

"(7) The term 'military installation' has the meaning given that term in section 2801 of title 10, United States Code.

"(8) The term 'military medical treatment facility' means a facility specified in section 1073d of such title.

"(9) The term 'remote installation' means a military installation that the Secretary determines to be in a remote location.

"(10) The term 'State' means each of the several States, the District of Columbia, and each commonwealth, territory or possession of the United States."

Joint Information Operations Course

Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title XV, §1523, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2898, provided that:

"(a) Joint Information Operations Course.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop and provide to members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force a course to prepare the members to plan and conduct information operations in a joint environment pursuant to title 10, United States Code. Such course shall include—

"(1) standardized qualifications and procedures to enable the joint and synchronized employment of information-related capabilities in the information environment;

"(2) joint methods to implement information operations in a battlefield environment under any ground force chain of command; and

"(3) a curriculum covering applicable assets, core information operations concepts, integration of effects with a specific focus on information-related effects, operational methodology, multi-dimensional targeting space, other information-related capabilities defined by governing policy, instruction, publications, and doctrine, and any other topics or areas determined necessary by the Secretary.

"(b) Consideration of Ongoing Efforts.—The Secretary shall ensure that the course under subsection (a) is developed in light of the information operations posture review, gap analysis, strategy update, and designation of a Joint Force Trainer, occurring as of the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2022].

"(c) Semiannual Reports.—Subsequent to the development of the course under subsection (a), on a semiannual basis through January 1, 2028, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] a report on the course. Each report shall include, with respect to the period covered by the report—

"(1) the number of members described in subsection (a) who attended the course; and

"(2) an assessment of the value of the course in—

"(A) conducting joint operations in the information environment; and

"(B) the synchronized employment of information-related capabilities in the information environment."

Lease or Use Agreement for Category 3 Subterranean Training Facility

Pub. L. 117–263, div. B, title XXVIII, §2869(a)–(d), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3012, 3013, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Secretary of Defense may seek to enter into a lease or use agreement with a category 3 subterranean training facility that—

"(1) is located in close proximity (as determined by the Secretary of Defense) to the home station of an air assault unit or a special operations force; and

"(2) has the capacity to—

"(A) provide brigade or large full-mission profile training;

"(B) rapidly replicate full-scale underground venues;

"(C) support helicopter landing zones; and

"(D) support underground live fire.

"(b) Use of Facility.—A lease or use agreement entered into pursuant to subsection (a) shall provide that the category 3 subterranean training facility shall be made available for—

"(1) hosting of training and testing exercises for—

"(A) members of the Armed Forces, including members a special operations force;

"(B) personnel of combat support agencies, including the Defense Threat Reduction Agency; and

"(C) such other personnel as the Secretary of Defense determines appropriate; and

"(2) such other purposes as the Secretary of Defense determines appropriate.

"(c) Duration.—The duration of any lease or use agreement entered into pursuant to subsection (a) shall be for a period of not less than 5 years.

"(d) Category 3 Subterranean Training Facility Defined.—In this section, the term 'category 3 subterranean training facility' means an underground structure designed and built—

"(1) to be unobserved and to provide maximum protection; and

"(2) to serve as a command and control, operations, storage, production, and protection facility."

Executive Education on Emerging Technologies for Senior Civilian and Military Leaders

Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title II, §228, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1609, provided that:

"(a) Establishment of Course.—Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 27, 2021], the Secretary of Defense shall establish executive education activities on emerging technologies for appropriate general and flag officers and senior executive-level civilian leaders that are designed specifically to prepare new general and flag officers and senior executive-level civilian leaders on relevant technologies and how these technologies may be applied to military and business activities in the Department of Defense.

"(b) Plan for Participation.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop a plan for participation in executive education activities established under subsection (a).

"(2) Requirements.—As part of such plan, the Secretary shall ensure that, not later than five years after the date of the establishment of the activities under subsection (a), all appropriate general flag officers and senior executive-level civilian leaders are—

"(A) required to complete the executive education activities under such subsection; and

"(B) certified as having successfully completed the executive education activities.

"(c) Report.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than the date that is three years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives a report on the status of the implementation of the activities required by subsection (a).

"(2) Contents.—The report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:

"(A) A description of the new general and flag officers and senior executive-level civilian leaders for whom the education activities have been designated.

"(B) A recommendation with respect to continuing or expanding the activities required under subsection (a)."

Authority To Maintain Access to Category 3 Subterranean Training Facility

Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title III, §375, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1667, which provided for authority to maintain access to category 3 subterranean training facility, was repealed by Pub. L. 117–263, div. B, title XXVIII, §2869(e), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3013.

Implementation of Comptroller General Recommendations on Preventing Tactical Vehicle Training Accidents

Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title III, §377, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1668, provided that:

"(a) Plan Required.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 27, 2021], each Secretary concerned shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] and to the Comptroller General of the United States a plan to address the recommendations in the report of the Government Accountability Office entitled 'Army and Marine Corps Should Take Additional Actions to Mitigate and Prevent Training Accidents' (GAO–21–361). Each such plan shall include, with respect to each recommendation in such report that the Secretary concerned has implemented or intends to implement—

"(1) a summary of actions that have been or will be taken to implement the recommendation; and

"(2) a schedule, with specific milestones, for completing implementation of the recommendation.

"(b) Deadline for Implementation.—

"(1) In general.—Except as provided in paragraph (2), not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, each Secretary concerned shall carry out activities to implement the plan of the Secretary developed under subsection (a).

"(2) Exception for implementation of certain recommendations.—

"(A) Delayed implementation.—A Secretary concerned may initiate implementation of a recommendation in the report referred to in subsection (a) after the date specified in paragraph (1) if, on or before such date, the Secretary provides to the congressional defense committees a specific justification for the delay in implementation of such recommendation.

"(B) Nonimplementation.—A Secretary concerned may decide not to implement a recommendation in the report referred to in subsection (a) if, on or before the date specified in paragraph (1), the Secretary provides to the congressional defense committees—

"(i) a specific justification for the decision not to implement the recommendation; and

"(ii) a summary of alternative actions the Secretary plans to take to address the conditions underlying the recommendation.

"(c) Secretary Concerned.—In this section, the term 'Secretary concerned' means—

"(1) the Secretary of the Army, with respect to the Army; and

"(2) the Secretary of the Navy, with respect to the Navy."

Defense Language Continuing Education Program

Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title V, §559B, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1743, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 27, 2021], the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness shall establish policies and procedures to provide, to linguists of the covered Armed Forces who have made the transition from formal training programs to operational and staff assignments, continuing language education to maintain their respective language proficiencies.

"(b) Reimbursement Authority.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary, in coordination with the chief of each covered Armed Force, shall establish a procedure by which the covered Armed Force concerned may reimburse an organization of the Department of Defense that provides, to members of such covered Armed Force, continuing language education, described in subsection (a), for the costs of such education.

"(2) Sunset.—The authority under this subsection shall expire on September 30, 2025.

"(c) Briefing.—Not later than July 1, 2022, the Under Secretary shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives on implementation of this section and plans regarding continuing language education described in subsection (a).

"(d) Covered Armed Force Defined.—In this section, the term 'covered Armed Force' means the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Space Force."

Training Program for Human Resources Personnel in Best Practices for Technical Workforce

Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title II, §246, Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3490, provided that:

"(a) Pilot Training Program.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 1, 2021], the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness and the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, shall develop and implement a pilot program to provide covered human resources personnel with training in public and private sector best practices for attracting and retaining technical talent.

"(2) Training areas.—The pilot program shall include training in the authorities and procedures that may be used to recruit technical personnel for positions in the Department of Defense, including—

"(A) appropriate direct hiring authorities;

"(B) excepted service authorities;

"(C) personnel exchange authorities;

"(D) authorities for hiring special government employees and highly qualified experts;

"(E) special pay authorities; and

"(F) private sector best practices to attract and retain technical talent.

"(3) Metrics.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of the pilot program in contributing to the ability of the Department of Defense to attract and retain technical talent.

"(4) Plan required.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop a plan for the implementation of the pilot program.

"(b) Reports.—

"(1) Report on plan.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] a report that sets forth the plan required under subsection (a)(4).

"(2) Report on pilot program.—Not later than three years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the results of the pilot program.

"(c) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) The term 'covered human resources personnel' means members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense, including human resources professionals, hiring managers, and recruiters, who are responsible for hiring technical talent.

"(2) The term 'technical talent' means individuals with expertise in high priority technical disciplines.

"(d) Termination.—The requirement to carry out the pilot program under this section shall terminate five years after the date of the enactment of this Act."

Pilot Program on Self-Directed Training in Advanced Technologies

Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title II, §248, Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3492, provided that:

"(a) Online Courses.—The Secretary of Defense shall carry out a pilot program under which the Secretary makes available a list of approved online courses relating to advanced technologies that may be taken by civilian employees of the Department of Defense and members of the Armed Forces on a voluntary basis while not engaged in the performance of their duties.

"(b) Procedures.—The Secretary shall establish procedures for the development, selection, approval, adoption, and evaluation of online courses under subsection (a) to ensure that such courses are supportive of the goals of this section and overall goals for the training and education of the civilian and military workforce of the Department of Defense.

"(c) Documentation of Completion.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a system—

"(1) to confirm whether a civilian employee of the Department of Defense or member of the Armed Forces has completed an online course approved by the Secretary under subsection (a); and

"(2) to document the completion of such course by such employee or member.

"(d) Incentives.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement incentives to encourage civilian employees of the Department of Defense and members of the Armed Forces to complete online courses approved by the Secretary under subsection (a).

"(e) Metrics.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop metrics to evaluate whether, and to what extent, the pilot program under this section improves the ability of participants—

"(1) to perform job-related functions; and

"(2) to execute relevant missions of the Department of Defense.

"(f) Advanced Technologies Defined.—In this section, the term 'advanced technologies' means technologies that the Secretary of Defense determines to be in high-demand within the Department of Defense and to which significant research and development efforts are devoted, including technologies such as artificial intelligence, data science, machine learning, fifth-generation telecommunications technology, and biotechnology.

"(g) Deadline.—The Secretary of Defense shall carry out the activities described in subsections (a) through (e) not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 1, 2021].

"(h) Sunset.—This section shall terminate on October 1, 2024."

Training Program Regarding Foreign Malign Influence Campaigns

Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title V, §589E, Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3661, as amended by Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title V, §549N, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1733; Pub. L. 117–263, div. F, title LXIII, §6307(a)(3), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3505, provided that:

"(a) Establishment.—Not later than September 30, 2021, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a program for training members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense regarding the threat of foreign malign influence campaigns targeted at such individuals and the families of such individuals, including such campaigns carried out through social media.

"(b) Designation of Official to Coordinate and Integrate.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Jan. 1, 2021], the Secretary shall designate an official of the Department who shall be responsible for coordinating and integrating the training program under this section.

"(c) Best Practices.—In coordinating and integrating the training program under this section, the official designated under subsection (b) shall review best practices of existing training programs across the Department.

"(d) Establishment of Working Group.—(1) Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this subsection [Dec. 27, 2021], the Secretary of Defense shall establish a working group to assist the official designated under subsection (b), as follows:

"(A) In the identification of mediums used by covered foreign countries to identify, access, and endeavor to influence servicemembers and Department of Defense civilian employees through foreign malign influence campaigns and the themes conveyed through such mediums.

"(B) In coordinating and integrating the training program under this subsection in order to enhance and strengthen servicemember and Department of Defense civilian employee awareness of and defenses against foreign malign influence, including by bolstering information literacy.

"(C) In such other tasks deemed appropriate by the Secretary of Defense or the official designated under subsection (b).

"(2) The official designed under subsection (b) and the working group established under this subsection shall consult with the Foreign Malign Influence Center established pursuant to section 3059 of title 50, United States Code.

"(e) Report Required.—Not later than 18 months after the establishment of the working group, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the results of the working group, its activities, the effectiveness of the counter foreign malign influence activities carried out under this section, the metrics applied to determined effectiveness, and the actual costs associated with actions undertaken pursuant to this section.

"(f) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) Foreign malign influence.—The term 'foreign malign influence' has the meaning given that term in section 119C of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3059).

"(2) Covered foreign country.—The term 'covered foreign country' has the meaning given that term in section 119C of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3059)

"(3) Information literacy.—The term 'information literacy' means the set of skills needed to find, retrieve, understand, evaluate, analyze, and effectively use information (which encompasses spoken and broadcast words and videos, printed materials, and digital content, data, and images)."

Collection of Blast Exposure Information

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VII, §742(b), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1469, provided that: "The Secretary of Defense shall collect blast exposure information with respect to a member of the Armed Forces in a manner—

"(1) consistent with blast exposure measurement training guidance of the Department of Defense, including any guidance developed pursuant to—

"(A) the longitudinal medical study on blast pressure exposure required by section 734 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (Public Law 115–91; 131 Stat. 1444); and

"(B) the review of guidance on blast exposure during training required by section 253 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 10 U.S.C. 2001 note prec.);

"(2) compatible with training and operational objectives of the Department; and

"(3) that is automated, to the extent practicable, to minimize the reporting burden of unit commanders."

Review of Guidance on Blast Exposure During Training

Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title II, §253, Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1704, provided that:

"(a) Initial Review.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 13, 2018], the Secretary of Defense shall review the decibel level exposure, concussive effects exposure, and the frequency of exposure to heavy weapons fire of an individual during training exercises to establish appropriate limitations on such exposures.

"(b) Elements.—The review required by subsection (a) shall take into account current data and evidence on the cognitive effects of blast exposure and shall include consideration of the following:

"(1) The impact of exposure over multiple successive days of training.

"(2) The impact of multiple types of heavy weapons being fired in close succession.

"(3) The feasibility of cumulative annual or lifetime exposure limits.

"(4) The minimum safe distance for observers and instructors.

"(c) Updated Training Guidance.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the completion of the review under subsection (a), each Secretary of a military department shall update any relevant training guidance to account for the conclusions of the review.

"(d) Updated Review.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than two years after the initial review conducted under subsection (a), and not later than two years thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct an updated review under such subsection, including consideration of the matters set forth under subsection (b), and update training guidance under subsection (c).

"(2) Consideration of new research and evidence.—Each updated review conducted under paragraph (1) shall take into account new research and evidence that has emerged since the previous review.

"(e) Briefing Required.—The Secretary of Defense shall brief the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives on a summary of the results of the initial review under subsection (a), each updated review conducted under subsection (d), and any updates to training guidance and procedures resulting from any such review or updated review."

Annual Training Regarding the Influence Campaign of the Russian Federation

Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title X, §1048, Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1558, provided that: "In addition to any currently mandated training, the Secretary of Defense may furnish annual training to all members of the Armed Forces and all civilian employees of the Department of Defense, regarding attempts by the Russian Federation and its proxies and agents to influence and recruit members of the Armed Forces as part of its influence campaign."

Policy on Active Shooter Training for Certain Law Enforcement Personnel

Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title III, §367, Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1381, provided that: "The Secretary of Defense shall establish policy and promulgate guidelines to ensure civilian and military law enforcement personnel charged with security functions on military installations shall receive Active Shooter Training as described in finding 4.3 of the document entitled 'Protecting the Force: Lessons From Fort Hood'."

Language Training Centers for Members of the Armed Forces and Civilian Employees of the Department of Defense

Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title V, §529, Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2290, as amended by Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title V, §575, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 277, provided that:

"(a) Program Authorized.—The Secretary of Defense shall carry out a program to establish language training centers at accredited universities, senior military colleges, or other similar institutions of higher education for purposes of accelerating the development of foundational expertise in critical and strategic languages and regional area studies (as defined by the Secretary of Defense for purposes of this section) for members of the Armed Forces, including members of the reserve components and candidates of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs, and civilian employees of the Department of Defense.

"(b) Elements.—Each language training center established under the program authorized by subsection (a) shall include the following:

"(1) Programs to provide that members of the Armed Forces or civilian employees of the Department of Defense who graduate from the institution of higher education concerned include members or employees, as the case may be, who are skilled in the languages and area studies covered by the program from beginning through advanced skill levels.

"(2) Programs of language proficiency training for such members and civilian employees at the institution of higher education concerned in critical and strategic languages tailored to meet operational readiness requirements.

"(3) Alternative language training delivery systems and modalities to meet language and regional area study requirements for such members and employees whether prior to deployment, during deployment, or post-deployment.

"(4) Programs on critical and strategic languages under the program that can be incorporated into Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs to facilitate the development of language skills in such languages among future officers of the Armed Forces.

"(5) Training and education programs to expand the pool of qualified instructors and educators on critical and strategic languages and regional area studies under the program for the Armed Forces.

"(6) Programs to facilitate and encourage the recruitment of native and heritage speakers of critical and strategic languages under the program into the Armed Forces and the civilian workforce of the Department of Defense and to support the Civilian Linguist Reserve Corps.

"(c) Partnerships With Other Schools.—Any language training center established under the program authorized by subsection (a) may enter into a partnership with one or more local educational agencies to facilitate the development of skills in critical and strategic languages under the program among students attending the elementary and secondary schools of such agencies who may pursue a military career.

"(d) Coordination.—The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the language training centers established under the program authorized by subsection (a) are aligned with those of the National Security Education Program, the Defense Language Institute, and other appropriate Department of Defense programs to facilitate and encourage the recruitment of native and heritage speakers of critical and strategic languages under the program into the Armed Forces and the civilian workforce of the Department of Defense and to support the Civilian Linguist Reserve Corps.

"(e) Contract Authority.—The Secretary of Defense may enter into one or more contracts, cooperative agreements, or grants with private national organizations having an expertise in foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields, for the awarding of grants to accredited universities, senior military colleges, or other similar institutions of higher education to establish and maintain language training centers authorized by subsection (a).

"(f) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 [Dec. 22, 2023], the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] a report on the Language Training Center program. The report shall include the following:

"(1) A description of each language training center established under the program.

"(2) An assessment of the cost-effectiveness of the program in providing foundational expertise in critical and strategic languages and regional area studies in support of the Defense Language Transformation Roadmap.

"(3) An assessment of the progress made by each language training center in providing capabilities in critical and strategic languages under the program to members of the Armed Forces and Department of Defense employees.

"(4) An assessment of the resources required to carry out the Language Training Center program by year through fiscal year 2027.

"(5) Recommendations as to any modifications to the Language Training Center program that the Secretary considers appropriate."

Enhancing Education Partnerships To Improve Accessibility and Flexibility for Members of the Armed Forces

Pub. L. 110–417, [div. A], title V, §550, Oct. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 4468, provided that:

"(a) Authority.—The Secretary of a military department may enter into one or more education partnership agreements with educational institutions in the United States for the purpose of—

"(1) developing plans to improve the accessibility and flexibility of college courses available to eligible members of the Armed Forces;

"(2) improving the application process for the Armed Forces tuition assistance programs and raising awareness regarding educational opportunities available to such members;

"(3) developing curriculum, distance education programs, and career counseling designed to meet the professional, financial, academic, and social needs of such members; and

"(4) assessing how resources may be applied more effectively to meet the educational needs of such members.

"(b) Cost.—Except as provided in this section, execution of an education partnership agreement with an educational institution shall be at no cost to the Government.

"(c) Educational Institution Defined.—In this section, the term 'educational institution' means an accredited college, university, or technical school in the United States."

§2001. Human relations training

(a) Human Relations Training.—(1)(A) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the Secretary of each military department conducts ongoing programs for human relations training for all members of the armed forces under the jurisdiction of the Secretary.

(B) Matters covered by such training include race relations, equal opportunity, opposition to gender discrimination, and sensitivity to hate group activity.

(C) Such training shall be provided during basic training (or other initial military training) and on a regular basis thereafter.

(2) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that a unit commander is aware of the responsibility to ensure that impermissible activity, based upon discriminatory motives, does not occur in a unit under the command of such commander.

(b) Information Provided to Prospective Recruits.—The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that—

(1) each individual preparing to enter an officer accession program or to execute an original enlistment agreement is provided information concerning the meaning of the oath of office or oath of enlistment for service in the armed forces in terms of the equal protection and civil liberties guarantees of the Constitution; and

(2) each such individual is informed that if supporting such guarantees is not possible personally for that individual, then that individual should decline to enter the armed forces.

(Added Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title V, §552(a), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1735.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 2001, act Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 119, related to division of reserve components into training categories, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 103–337, div. A, title XVI, §1661(a)(3)(A), Oct. 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 2980. See section 10141(c) of this title.

§2002. Dependents of members of armed forces: language training

(a) Notwithstanding section 701(b) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 4021(b)) or any other provision of law, and under regulations to be prescribed by the Secretary of Defense or, with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, the Secretary of Homeland Security, language training may be provided in—

(1) a facility of the Department of Defense;

(2) a facility of the George P. Shultz National Foreign Affairs Training Center established under section 701(a) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 4021(a)); or

(3) a civilian educational institution;

to a dependent of a member of the armed forces in anticipation of the member's assignment to permanent duty outside the United States.

(b) In this section, the term "dependent" has the same meaning that it has under section 401 of title 37.

(Added Pub. L. 89–160, §1(1), Sept. 1, 1965, 79 Stat. 615; amended Pub. L. 91–278, §2(1), (2), June 12, 1970, 84 Stat. 306; Pub. L. 96–465, title II, §2206(c)(1), Oct. 17, 1980, 94 Stat. 2162; Pub. L. 97–22, §11(a)(7), July 10, 1981, 95 Stat. 138; Pub. L. 98–525, title XIV, §1405(30), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2624; Pub. L. 100–180, div. A, title XII, §1231(18)(A), Dec. 4, 1987, 101 Stat. 1161; Pub. L. 107–296, title XVII, §1704(b)(1), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2314; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title X, §1045(a)(4), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1612.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2003—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 108–136 substituted "George P. Shultz National Foreign Affairs Training Center" for "Foreign Service Institute".

2002—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 107–296 substituted "of Homeland Security" for "of Transportation" in introductory provisions.

1987—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 100–180 inserted "the term" after "In this section,".

1984—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 98–525 substituted "In this section," for "For the purposes of this section, the word".

1981—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 97–22 inserted "(22 U.S.C. 4021(b))" after "section 701(b) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980" in provisions preceding par. (1) and, in par. (2), inserted "(22 U.S.C. 4021(a))" after "section 701(a) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980".

1980—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 96–465, in provisions preceding par. (1) substituted "section 701(b) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980" for "section 1041 of title 22" and in par. (2) substituted "section 701(a) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980" for "section 1041 of title 22".

1970—Pub. L. 91–278, §2(1), substituted "armed forces" for "Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 91–278, §2(2)(A), authorized Secretary of Transportation to prescribe regulations for Coast Guard when not operating as a service in the Navy.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 91–278, §2(2)(B), substituted "armed forces" for "Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 107–296 effective on the date of transfer of the Coast Guard to the Department of Homeland Security, see section 1704(g) of Pub. L. 107–296, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 96–465 effective Feb. 15, 1981, except as otherwise provided, see section 2403 of Pub. L. 96–465, set out as an Effective Date note under section 3901 of Title 22, Foreign Relations and Intercourse.

§2003. Aeronautical rating as pilot: qualifications

To be eligible to receive an aeronautical rating as a pilot in the Army or Air Force or be designated as a naval aviator, a member of an armed force must successfully complete an undergraduate pilot course of instruction prescribed or approved by the Secretary of his military department.

(Added Pub. L. 92–168, §4(1), Nov. 24, 1971, 85 Stat. 489.)

§2004. Detail as students at law schools; commissioned officers; certain enlisted members

(a) The Secretary of each military department may, under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, detail commissioned officers and enlisted members of the armed forces as students at accredited law schools, located in the United States, for a period of training leading to the degree of juris doctor. No more than twenty-five officers and enlisted members from each military department may commence such training in any single fiscal year.

(b) To be eligible for detail under subsection (a), an officer or enlisted member must be a citizen of the United States and must—

(1) either—

(A) have served on active duty for a period of not less than two years nor more than six years and be an officer in the pay grade O–3 or below as of the time the training is to begin; or

(B) have served on active duty for a period of not less than four years nor more than eight years and be an enlisted member in the pay grade E–5, E–6, or E–7 as of the time the training is to begin;

(2) in the case of an enlisted member, meet all requirements for acceptance of a commission as a commissioned officer in the armed forces; and

(3) sign an agreement that unless sooner separated he will—

(A) complete the educational course of legal training;

(B) accept transfer or detail as a judge advocate within the department concerned when his legal training is completed; and

(C) agree to serve on active duty following completion or other termination of training for a period of two years for each year or part thereof of his legal training under subsection (a).

(c) Officers and enlisted members detailed for legal training under subsection (a) shall be selected on a competitive basis by the Secretary of the military department concerned, under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense. Any service obligation incurred by an officer or enlisted member under an agreement entered into under subsection (b) shall be in addition to any service obligation incurred by any such officer or enlisted member under any other provision of law or agreement.

(d) Expenses incident to the detail of officers and enlisted members under this section shall be paid from any funds appropriated for the military department concerned.

(e) An officer or enlisted member who, under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, is dropped from the program of legal training authorized by subsection (a) for deficiency in conduct or studies, or for other reasons, may be required to perform active duty in an appropriate military capacity in accordance with the active duty obligation imposed by regulations issued by the Secretary of Defense, except that in no case shall any such member be required to serve on active duty for any period in excess of one year for each year or part thereof he participated in the program.

(f) No agreement detailing any officer or enlisted member of the armed forces to an accredited law school may be entered into during any period that the President is authorized by law to induct persons into the armed forces involuntarily. Nothing in this subsection shall affect any agreement entered into during any period when the President is not authorized by law to so induct persons into the armed forces.

(Added Pub. L. 93–155, title VIII, §817(a), Nov. 16, 1973, 87 Stat. 621; amended Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XIV, §1484(i)(3)(A), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1718; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title V, §551(a), (b)(1), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1385, 1386; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(34), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3872.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Subsecs. (d), (e). Pub. L. 116–283 substituted "enlisted" for "enlistment".

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, §551(b)(1), substituted "Detail as students at law schools; commissioned officers; certain enlisted members" for "Detail of commissioned officers as students at law schools" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(1), inserted "and enlisted members" after "commissioned officers" and after "twenty-five officers" and struck out "bachelor of laws or" before "juris doctor".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(2)(A), inserted "or enlisted member" after "officer" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(2)(B), added par. (1) and struck out former par. (1) which read as follows: "have served on active duty for a period of not less than two years nor more than six years and be in the pay grade O–3 or below as of the time the training is to begin; and".

Subsec. (b)(2), (3). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(2)(C), (D), added par. (2) and redesignated former par. (2) as (3).

Subsec. (b)(3)(B). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(2)(E), struck out "or law specialist" after "judge advocate".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(3), inserted "and enlisted members" after "Officers" and, in two places, inserted "or enlisted member" after "officer".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(4), inserted "and enlistment members" after "officers".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(5), inserted "or enlistment member" after "officer".

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 116–92, §551(a)(6), inserted "or enlisted member" after "officer".

1990—Pub. L. 101–510 struck out "of the military departments" after "officers" in section catchline.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Selection of Officers in Missing Status for Legal Training on a Noncompetitive Basis; Exemption From Numerical Limitations

Pub. L. 94–106, title VIII, §821, Oct. 7, 1975, 89 Stat. 545, provided that: "Notwithstanding any provision of section 2004 of title 10 United States Code, an officer in any pay grade who was in a missing status (as defined in section 551(2) of title 37, United States Code) after August 4, 1964, and before May 8, 1975, may be selected for detail for legal training under that section 2004 on other than a competitive basis and, if selected for that training, is not counted in computing, for the purpose of subsection (a) of that section 2004, the number of officers who may commence that training in any single fiscal year. For the purposes of determining eligibility under that section 2004, the period of time during which an officer was in that missing status may be disregarded in computing the period he has served on active duty."

§2004a. Detail of commissioned officers as students at medical schools

(a) Detail Authorized.—The Secretary of each military department may detail commissioned officers of the armed forces as students at accredited medical schools or schools of osteopathy located in the United States for a period of training leading to the degree of doctor of medicine. No more than 25 officers from each military department may commence such training in any single fiscal year.

(b) Eligibility for Detail.—To be eligible for detail under subsection (a), an officer must be a citizen of the United States and must—

(1) have served on active duty for a period of not less than two years nor more than six years and be in the pay grade O–3 or below as of the time the training is to begin; and

(2) sign an agreement that unless sooner separated the officer will—

(A) complete the educational course of medical training;

(B) accept transfer or detail as a medical officer within the military department concerned when the officer's training is completed; and

(C) agree to serve, following completion of the officer's training, on active duty (or on active duty and in the Selected Reserve) for a period as specified pursuant to subsection (c).

(c) Service Obligation.—An agreement under subsection (b) shall provide that the officer shall serve on active duty for two years for each year or part thereof of the officer's medical training under subsection (a), except that the agreement may authorize the officer to serve a portion of the officer's service obligation on active duty and to complete the service obligation that remains upon separation from active duty in the Selected Reserve, in which case the officer shall serve three years in the Selected Reserve for each year or part thereof of the officer's medical training under subsection (a) for any service obligation that was not completed before separation from active duty.

(d) Selection of Officers for Detail.—Officers detailed for medical training under subsection (a) shall be selected on a competitive basis by the Secretary of the military department concerned.

(e) Appointment and Treatment of Prior Active Service.—(1) A commissioned officer detailed as a student at a medical school under subsection (a) shall be appointed as a regular officer in the grade of second lieutenant or ensign and shall serve on active duty in that grade with full pay and allowances of that grade.

(2) If an officer detailed to be a medical student has prior active service in a pay grade and with years of service credited for pay that would entitle the officer, if the officer remained in the former grade, to a rate of basic pay in excess of the rate of basic pay for regular officers in the grade of second lieutenant or ensign, the officer shall be paid basic pay based on the former grade and years of service credited for pay. The amount of such basic pay for the officer shall be increased on January 1 of each year by the percentage by which basic pay is increased on average on that date for that year, and the officer shall continue to receive basic pay based on the former grade and years of service until the date, whether occurring before or after graduation, on which the basic pay for the officer in the officer's actual grade and years of service credited for pay exceeds the amount of basic pay to which the officer is entitled based on the officer's former grade and years of service.

(f) Relation of Service Obligations to Other Service Obligations.—Any service obligation incurred by an officer under an agreement entered into under subsection (b) shall be in addition to any service obligation incurred by the officer under any other provision of law or agreement.

(g) Expenses.—Expenses incident to the detail of officers under this section shall be paid from any funds appropriated for the military department concerned.

(h) Failure to Complete Program.—(1) An officer who is dropped from a program of medical training to which detailed under subsection (a) for deficiency in conduct or studies, or for other reasons, may be required to perform active duty in an appropriate military capacity in accordance with the active duty obligation imposed on the officer under regulations issued by the Secretary of Defense for purposes of this section.

(2) In no case shall an officer be required to serve on active duty under paragraph (1) for any period in excess of one year for each year or part thereof the officer participated in the program.

(i) Limitation on Details.—No agreement detailing an officer of the armed forces to an accredited medical school or school of osteopathy may be entered into during any period in which the President is authorized by law to induct persons into the armed forces involuntarily. Nothing in this subsection shall affect any agreement entered into during any period when the President is not authorized by law to so induct persons into the armed forces.

(Added Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title V, §536(a), Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2207; amended Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title V, §524(c), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 104; Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title X, §1073(a)(18), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2473.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2009—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 111–84, §1073(a)(18)(A), substituted "pay grade O–3" for "pay grade 0–3".

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 111–84, §1073(a)(18)(B), inserted period at end.

2008—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 110–181, §524(c)(2), substituted "subsection (b)" for "subsection (c)".

Subsecs. (e) to (i). Pub. L. 110–181, §524(c)(1), added subsec. (e) and redesignated former subsecs. (e) to (h) as (f) to (i), respectively.

§2004b. Detail of commissioned officers as students at schools of psychology

(a) Detail Authorized.—The Secretary of each military department may detail commissioned officers of the armed forces as students at accredited schools of psychology located in the United States for a period of training leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in clinical psychology. No more than 25 officers from each military department may commence such training in any single fiscal year.

(b) Eligibility for Detail.—To be eligible for detail under subsection (a), an officer must be a citizen of the United States and must—

(1) have served on active duty for a period of not less than two years nor more than six years and be in the pay grade O–3 or below as of the time the training is to begin; and

(2) sign an agreement that unless sooner separated the officer will—

(A) complete the educational course of psychological training;

(B) accept transfer or detail as a commissioned officer within the military department concerned when the officer's training is completed; and

(C) agree to serve, following completion of the officer's training, on active duty (or on active duty and in the Selected Reserve) for a period as specified pursuant to subsection (c).

(c) Service Obligation.—(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the agreement of an officer under subsection (b) shall provide that the officer shall serve on active duty for two years for each year or part thereof of the officer's training under subsection (a).

(2) The agreement of an officer may authorize the officer to serve a portion of the officer's service obligation on active duty and to complete the service obligation that remains upon separation from active duty in the Selected Reserve. Under any such agreement, an officer shall serve three years in the Selected Reserve for each year or part thereof of the officer's training under subsection (a) for any service obligation that was not completed before separation from active duty.

(d) Selection of Officers for Detail.—Officers detailed for training under subsection (a) shall be selected on a competitive basis by the Secretary of the military department concerned.

(e) Relation of Service Obligations to Other Service Obligations.—Any service obligation incurred by an officer under an agreement entered into under subsection (b) shall be in addition to any service obligation incurred by the officer under any other provision of law or agreement.

(f) Expenses.—Expenses incident to the detail of officers under this section shall be paid from any funds appropriated for the military department concerned.

(g) Failure to Complete Program.—(1) An officer who is dropped from a program of psychological training to which detailed under subsection (a) for deficiency in conduct or studies, or for other reasons, may be required to perform active duty in an appropriate military capacity in accordance with the active duty obligation imposed on the officer under regulations issued by the Secretary of Defense for purposes of this section.

(2) In no case shall an officer be required to serve on active duty under paragraph (1) for any period in excess of one year for each year or part thereof the officer participated in the program.

(h) Limitation on Details.—No agreement detailing an officer of the armed forces to an accredited school of psychology may be entered into during any period in which the President is authorized by law to induct persons into the armed forces involuntarily. Nothing in this subsection shall affect any agreement entered into during any period when the President is not authorized by law to so induct persons into the armed forces.

(Added Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title V, §521(a), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2283; amended Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title X, §1075(b)(26), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4370.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2011—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 111–383 substituted "pay grade O–3" for "pay grade 0–3".

§2005. Advanced education assistance: active duty agreement; reimbursement requirements

(a) The Secretary concerned may require, as a condition to the Secretary providing advanced education assistance to any person, that such person enter into a written agreement with the Secretary concerned under the terms of which such person shall agree—

(1) to complete the educational requirements specified in the agreement and to serve on active duty for a period specified in the agreement;

(2) that if such person fails to complete the education requirements specified in the agreement, such person will serve on active duty for a period specified in the agreement;

(3) that if such person does not complete the period of active duty specified in the agreement, or does not fulfill any term or condition prescribed pursuant to paragraph (4), such person shall be subject to the repayment provisions of section 303a(e) or 373 of title 37; and

(4) to such other terms and conditions as the Secretary concerned may prescribe to protect the interest of the United States.

(b) The Secretary concerned shall determine the period of active duty to be served by any person for advanced education assistance to be provided such person by an armed force, except that if the period of active duty required to be served is specified under another provision of law with respect to the advanced education assistance to be provided, the period specified in the agreement referred to in subsection (a) shall be the same as the period specified in such other provision of law.

(c) As a condition of the Secretary concerned providing financial assistance under section 2107 or 2107a of this title to any person, the Secretary concerned shall require that the person enter into the agreement described in subsection (a). In addition to the requirements of paragraphs (1) through (4) of such subsection, the agreement shall specify that, if the person does not complete the education requirements specified in the agreement or does not fulfill any term or condition prescribed pursuant to paragraph (4) of such subsection, the person shall be subject to the repayment provisions of section 303a(e) or 373 of title 37 without the Secretary first ordering such person to active duty as provided for under subsection (a)(2) and sections 2107(f) and 2107a(f) of this title.

(d) In this section:

(1) The term "advanced education" means education or training above the secondary school level but does not include technical training provided to a member of the armed forces to qualify such member to perform a specified military function, to workshops, or to short-term training programs.

(2) The term "assistance" means the direct provision of any course of advanced education by the Secretary concerned, reimbursement by the Secretary concerned for any course of advanced education provided by another department or agency of the Federal Government, or the payment, in whole or in part, by the Secretary concerned for any course of advanced education provided by any public or private educational institution or other entity, but such term does not include the payment for any course of advanced education which is paid for under chapter 106 or 107 of this title.

(3) The term "cost of advanced education" means those costs which are, under regulations prescribed by the Secretary concerned, directly attributable to the education of the person to whom a course of advanced education is provided, including the cost of tuition and other fees (or, if none is charged, an amount determined by the Secretary concerned to be a reasonable charge for the education provided), the cost of books, supplies, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses, and the cost of room and board, but such term does not include pay or allowances under title 37 or a stipend under section 2121 of this title.

(Added Pub. L. 96–357, §2(a), Sept. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 1180; amended Pub. L. 98–94, title X, §1003(b)(1), title XII, §1268(10), Sept. 24, 1983, 97 Stat. 656, 706; Pub. L. 100–180, div. A, title XII, §1231(17), Dec. 4, 1987, 101 Stat. 1161; Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title V, §534, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1564; Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title V, §573(a), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1673; Pub. L. 109–163, div. A, title VI, §687(c)(2), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3333; Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VI, §618(a)(1)(B), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1426.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2017—Subsecs. (a)(3), (c). Pub. L. 115–91 inserted "or 373" before "of title 37".

2006—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 109–163, §687(c)(2)(A), added par. (3) and struck out former par. (3) which read as follows: "that if such person, voluntarily or because of misconduct, fails to complete the period of active duty specified in the agreement, or fails to fulfill any term or condition prescribed pursuant to clause (4), such person will reimburse the United States in an amount that bears the same ratio to the total cost of advanced education provided such person as the unserved portion of active duty bears to the total period of active duty such person agreed to serve; and".

Subsecs. (c) to (h). Pub. L. 109–163, §687(c)(2)(B)–(D), added subsec. (c), redesignated former subsec. (e) as (d), and struck out former subsecs. (c), (d), and (f) to (h) relating to the obligation to reimburse the United States under an advanced education assistance agreement in subsec. (c), the effect of a discharge in bankruptcy under title 11 in subsec. (d), requirements for providing financial assistance in subsec. (f), failure to complete a period of active duty specified in an agreement in subsec. (g), and modification of agreements by the Secretary concerned in subsec. (h).

1993—Subsecs. (g), (h). Pub. L. 103–160 added subsecs. (g) and (h).

1990—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 101–510, §534(1), inserted "or fails to fulfill any term or condition prescribed pursuant to clause (4)," after "agreement,".

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 101–510, §534(2), inserted "or fails to fulfill any term or condition prescribed pursuant to clause (4) of such subsection," after "agreement,".

1987—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 100–180, §1231(17), inserted "The term" after each par. designation and revised first word in quotes in each par. to make initial letter of such word lowercase.

1983—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 98–94, §1268(10)(A), struck out "of this section" after "subsection (d)" and "subsection (a)".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 98–94, §1268(10)(A), struck out "of this section" after "subsection (a)".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 98–94, §1268(10)(B), substituted a colon for a dash after "In this section" preceding par. (1).

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 98–94, §1003(b)(1), added subsec. (f).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1993 Amendment

Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title V, §573(b), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1674, provided that:

"(1) Subsection (g) of section 2005 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to persons separated from the Armed Forces after the end of the six-month period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 30, 1993].

"(2) Subsection (h) of such section, as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to persons separated from the Armed Forces after the date of the enactment of this Act."

Effective Date of 1983 Amendment

Pub. L. 98–94, title X, §1003(b)(2), Sept. 24, 1983, 97 Stat. 657, provided that: "The amendment made by paragraph (1) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to agreements entered into after September 30, 1983."

Savings Provision

For savings provision relating to payment or repayment of any bonus, incentive pay, special pay, or similar pay obligated to be paid before Apr. 1, 2006, under a provision of this section amended by section 687(c) of Pub. L. 109–163, see section 687(f) of Pub. L. 109–163, set out as a note under section 510 of this title.

§2006. Department of Defense Education Benefits Fund

(a) There is established on the books of the Treasury a fund to be known as the Department of Defense Education Benefits Fund (hereinafter in this section referred to as the "Fund"), which shall be administered by the Secretary of the Treasury. The Fund shall be used for the accumulation of funds in order to finance armed forces education liabilities on an actuarially sound basis.

(b) In this section:

(1) The term "armed forces education liabilities" means liabilities of the armed forces for benefits under chapter 30 or 33 of title 38 and for Department of Defense benefits under paragraphs (3) and (4) of section 510(e) and chapters 1606 and 1607 of this title, including funds provided by the Secretary of Homeland Security for education liabilities for the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Department of the Navy.

(2) The term "normal cost", with respect to any period of time, means the total of the following:

(A) The present value of the future benefits payable from the Fund for amounts attributable to increased amounts of educational assistance authorized under section 3015(d) of title 38 to persons who were not on active duty on July 1, 1985, and who during such period enter on active duty.

(B) The present value of the future benefits payable from the Fund for amounts attributable to educational assistance authorized under subchapter III of chapter 30 of title 38 to persons who were not on active duty on July 1, 1985, and who during such period—

(i) enter a fourth year of active duty, in the case of persons eligible for basic educational assistance under section 3011 of such title; or

(ii) enter a period of service that will establish entitlement to such educational assistance under section 3021(b) of such title, in the case of persons eligible for basic educational assistance under section 3012 of such title.

(C) The present value of the future Department of Defense benefits payable from the Fund (including funds from the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating) for educational assistance under chapters 1606 and 1607 of this title to persons who during such period become entitled to such assistance.

(D) The present value of future benefits payable from the Fund for the Department of Defense portion of payments of educational assistance under subchapter II of chapter 30 of title 38 attributable to increased usage of benefits as a result of transfers of entitlement to basic educational assistance under section 3020 of that title during such period.

(E) The present value of future benefits payable from the Fund for educational assistance under paragraphs (3) and (4) of section 510(e) of this title to persons who during such period become entitled to such assistance.

(F) The present value of any future benefits payable from the Fund for amounts attributable to increased amounts of educational assistance authorized by section 3316 of title 38.

(c) There shall be deposited into the Fund the following, which shall constitute the assets of the Fund:

(1) Amounts paid into the Fund by the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating under subsection (f).

(2) Any amount appropriated to the Fund.

(3) Any return on investment of the assets of the Fund.

(d) The Secretary of the Treasury shall transfer from the Fund to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs such amounts as may be necessary to enable the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make required payments of armed forces education liabilities. The Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating, and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall enter into an agreement as to how and when, and the amounts in which, such transfers shall be made. Except for investments under subsection (h), amounts in the Fund may not be used for any purpose other than transfers as described in this subsection.

(e)(1) The Secretary of Defense shall carry out periodic actuarial valuations of the educational programs described in subsection (b)(1).

(2) Based on the most recent such valuation, the Secretary of Defense shall estimate the normal cost for the next fiscal year.

(3) If at the time of any such valuation there has been a change in benefits under an education program described in subsection (b)(1) that has been made since the last such valuation and that increases or decreases the present value of benefits payable from the Fund, the Secretary of Defense shall determine an amortization methodology and schedule for the liquidation of the unfunded liability (or negative unfunded liability) thus created such that the present value of the sum of the amortization payments equals the increase or decrease in the present value of such benefits.

(4) If at the time of any such valuation the Secretary of Defense determines that, based upon changes in actuarial assumptions since the last valuation, there has been an actuarial gain or loss to the Fund, the Secretary shall determine an amortization methodology and schedule for the liquidation of such gain or loss through an increase or decrease in the payments that would otherwise be made to the Fund.

(5) Based on the determinations under paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) the Secretary of Defense shall determine the amount needed to be appropriated to the Department of Defense and the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating for the next fiscal year for payments to be made to the Fund under subsection (f). The President shall include not less than the full amount so determined in the budget transmitted to Congress for the next fiscal year under section 1105 of title 31. The President may comment and make recommendations concerning any such amount.

(6) All determinations under this subsection shall be made using methods and assumptions approved by the Board of Actuaries (including assumptions of interest rates and inflation) and in accordance with generally accepted actuarial principles and practices.

(f)(1) The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall pay into the Fund each month the amount that, based upon the most recent actuarial valuation of the education programs described in subsection (b)(1), is equal to the actual total normal cost for the preceding month.

(2) The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall pay into the Fund at the beginning of each fiscal year (or as soon thereafter as appropriations are available for such purpose) the sum of the following:

(A) The amount of the payment for that year, if any, for the amortization of any liability to the Fund resulting from a change in benefits, as determined by the Secretary of Defense under subsection (e)(3).

(B) The amount of the payment for that year, if any, for the amortization of any actuarial gain or loss to the Fund, as determined by the Secretary of Defense under subsection (e)(4).

(3) Amounts paid into the Fund under this subsection shall be paid from appropriations available for the pay of members of the armed forces under the jurisdiction of the Secretary concerned.

(g) The Secretary of the Treasury shall invest such portion of the Fund as is not in the judgment of the Secretary required to meet current withdrawals. Such investments shall be in public debt securities with maturities suitable to the needs of the Fund, as determined by the Secretary, and bearing interest at rates determined by the Secretary, taking into consideration current market yields on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States of comparable maturities. The income on such investments shall be credited to and form a part of the Fund.

(Added Pub. L. 98–525, title VII, §706(a)(1), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2568; amended Pub. L. 100–26, §7(k)(2), Apr. 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 284; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(2), (6), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1603; Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XIII, §1322(a)(2), title XIV, §1484(j)(2), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1671, 1718; Pub. L. 103–337, div. A, title X, §1070(e)(6), Oct. 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 2859; Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §§1501(c)(21), 1503(a)(17), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 499, 512; Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title V, §550, Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 611; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title VI, §654(b), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1157; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title V, §535(b), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1474; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title V, §527(b)(1), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 1894; Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title X, §1071(a)(9), Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2398; Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title IX, §906(b)(2), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 277; Pub. L. 111–377, title I, §109(b)(2), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 4120; Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title X, §1076(f)(23), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1953.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2013—Subsec. (b)(2)(F). Pub. L. 112–239 redesignated subpar. (E) relating to amounts attributable to increased amounts of educational assistance authorized by section 3316 of title 38 as (F).

2011—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 111–377, §109(b)(2)(A), inserted "or 33" after "chapter 30".

Subsec. (b)(2)(E). Pub. L. 111–377, §109(b)(2)(B), added subpar. (E) relating to amounts attributable to increased amounts of educational assistance authorized by section 3316 of title 38.

2008—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 110–181, §906(b)(2)(A), substituted "subsection (f)" for "subsection (g)".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 110–181, §906(b)(2)(B), (C), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e) and struck out former subsec. (e) which established in the Department of Defense a Department of Defense Education Benefits Board of Actuaries.

Subsec. (e)(5). Pub. L. 110–181, §906(b)(2)(D), substituted "subsection (f)" for "subsection (g)".

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 110–181, §906(b)(2)(C), redesignated subsec. (g) as (f). Former subsec. (f) redesignated (e).

Subsec. (f)(2)(A). Pub. L. 110–181, §906(b)(2)(E)(i), substituted "subsection (e)(3)" for "subsection (f)(3)".

Subsec. (f)(2)(B). Pub. L. 110–181, §906(b)(2)(E)(ii), substituted "subsection (e)(4)" for "subsection (f)(4)".

Subsecs. (g), (h). Pub. L. 110–181, §906(b)(2)(C), redesignated subsec. (h) as (g). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (f).

2006—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 109–364 inserted "of this title" after "1607" and struck out "of this title" before period at end.

2004—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 108–375, §527(b)(1)(A), substituted "chapters 1606 and 1607, including funds provided by the Secretary of Homeland Security for education liabilities for the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Department of the Navy" for "chapter 1606".

Subsec. (b)(2)(C). Pub. L. 108–375, §527(b)(1)(B), substituted "(including funds from the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating) for educational assistance under chapters 1606 and 1607" for "for educational assistance under chapter 1606".

2003—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 108–136, §535(b)(1), inserted "paragraphs (3) and (4) of section 510(e) and" after "Department of Defense benefits under".

Subsec. (b)(2)(E). Pub. L. 108–136, §535(b)(2), added subpar. (E).

2001—Subsec. (b)(2)(D). Pub. L. 107–107 added subpar. (D).

1999—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–65, §550(1), substituted "armed forces education liabilities" for "Department of Defense education liabilities".

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 106–65, §550(2), amended par. (1) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (1) read as follows: "The term 'Department of Defense education liabilities' means liabilities of the Department of Defense for benefits under chapter 30 of title 38 and for benefits under chapter 1606 of this title."

Subsec. (b)(2)(C). Pub. L. 106–65, §550(3), inserted "Department of Defense" after "future" and substituted "chapter 1606" for "chapter 106".

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 106–65, §550(4), inserted "and the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating" after "Defense".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 106–65, §550(5), substituted "armed forces" for "Department of Defense" and inserted "the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating," after "Secretary of Defense,".

Subsec. (f)(5). Pub. L. 106–65, §550(6), inserted "and the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating" after "Department of Defense".

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 106–65, §550(7), inserted "and the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating" after "The Secretary of Defense" in pars. (1) and (2) and substituted "concerned" for "of a military department" in par. (3).

1996—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 104–106, §1501(c)(21), substituted "chapter 1606 of this title" for "chapter 106 of this title".

Subsec. (b)(2)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 104–106, §1503(a)(17), substituted "section 3012 of such title" for "section 1412 of such title".

1994—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 103–337 substituted "section 3015(d)", "section 3011", and "section 3021(b)" for "section 1415(c)", "section 1411", and "section 1421(b)", respectively.

1990—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 101–510, §1484(j)(2), substituted "enable the Secretary of Veterans Affairs" for "enable the Administrator".

Subsec. (e)(3). Pub. L. 101–510, §1322(a)(2), substituted "and shall recommend to the President and Congress" for "and report periodically, not less than once every four years, to the President and Congress on the status of the Fund and shall recommend".

1989—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Secretary of Veterans Affairs" for "Administrator of Veterans' Affairs" in first sentence and "Secretary of Veterans Affairs" for "Administrator" in second sentence.

1987—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 100–26 inserted "The term" after each par. designation and substituted "normal" for "Normal" in par. (2).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2011 Amendment

Pub. L. 111–377, title I, §109(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 4120, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 3316 of Title 38, Veterans' Benefits] shall take effect on August 1, 2011."

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1501(c), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 498, provided that the amendment made by that section is effective as of Dec. 1, 1994, and as if included as an amendment made by the Reserve Officer Personnel Management Act, title XVI of Pub. L. 103–337, as originally enacted.

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.

References in Other Laws to GS–16, 17, or 18 Pay Rates

References in laws to the rates of pay for GS–16, 17, or 18, or to maximum rates of pay under the General Schedule, to be considered references to rates payable under specified sections of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, see section 529 [title I, §101(c)(1)] of Pub. L. 101–509, set out in a note under section 5376 of Title 5.

First Payment Into Fund

Pub. L. 98–525, title VII, §706(b), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2570, directed that first payment into Department of Defense Education Benefits Fund under this section be made not later than three months after Board of Actuaries determined amounts needed to be paid into Fund for that portion of fiscal year 1985 beginning on July 1, 1985, with first payment in a lump sum equal to total of amounts that would have been paid to Fund each month between July 1, 1985, and time such first payment was made.

§2006a. Assistance for education and training: availability of certain assistance for use only for certain programs of education

(a) In General.—Effective as of August 1, 2014, an individual eligible for assistance under a Department of Defense educational assistance program or authority covered by this section may, except as provided in subsection (b), only use such assistance for educational expenses incurred for a program as follows:

(1) An eligible program (as defined in section 481 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1088)) that is offered by an institution of higher education that has entered into, and is complying with, a program participation agreement under section 487 of such Act (20 U.S.C. 1094).

(2) In the case of a program designed to prepare individuals for licensure or certification in any State, if the program meets the instructional curriculum licensure or certification requirements of such State.

(3) In the case of a program designed to prepare individuals for employment pursuant to standards developed by a State board or agency in an occupation that requires approval or licensure for such employment, if the program is approved or licensed by such State board or agency.

(b) Waiver.—The Secretary of Defense may, by regulation, authorize the use of educational assistance under a Department of Defense educational assistance program or authority covered by this chapter for educational expenses incurred for a program of education that is not described in subsection (a) if the program—

(1) is accredited and approved by a nationally or regionally recognized accrediting agency or association recognized by the Department of Education;

(2) was not an eligible program described in subsection (a) at any time during the most recent two-year period;

(3) is a program that the Secretary determines would further the purposes of the educational assistance programs or authorities covered by this chapter, or would further the education interests of students eligible for assistance under such programs or authorities; and

(4) the institution providing the program does not provide any commission, bonus, or other incentive payment based directly or indirectly on success in securing enrollments or financial aid to any persons or entities engaged in any student recruiting or admission activities or in making decisions regarding the award of student financial assistance, except for the recruitment of foreign students residing in foreign countries who are not eligible to receive Federal student assistance.

(c) Definitions.—In this section:

(1) The term "Department of Defense educational assistance programs and authorities covered by this section" means the programs and authorities as follows:

(A) The programs to assist military spouses in achieving education and training to expand employment and portable career opportunities under section 1784a of this title.

(B) The authority to pay tuition for off-duty training or education of members of the armed forces under section 2007 of this title.

(C) The program of educational assistance for members of the Selected Reserve under chapter 1606 of this title.

(D) The program of educational assistance for reserve component members supporting contingency operations and certain other operations under chapter 1607 of this title.

(E) Any other program or authority of the Department of Defense for assistance in education or training carried out under the laws administered by the Secretary of Defense that is designated by the Secretary, by regulation, for purposes of this section.

(2) The term "institution of higher education" has the meaning given that term in section 102 of the Higher Education Act for 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002).

(Added Pub. L. 113–66, div. A, title V, §541(a), Dec. 26, 2013, 127 Stat. 760; amended Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(6), Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 1001; Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(15), Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1984.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 115–232 substituted "such programs" for "the such programs".

2015—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 114–92 substituted "August 1" for "August, 1" in introductory provisions.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Pub. L. 113–66, div. A, title V, §541(c), Dec. 26, 2013, 127 Stat. 762, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [enacting this section] shall take effect on August 1, 2014."

§2007. Payment of tuition for off-duty training or education

(a) Subject to subsections (b) and (c), the Secretary concerned may pay all or a portion of the charges of an educational institution for the tuition or expenses of a member of the armed forces enrolled in such educational institution for education or training during the member's off-duty periods.

(b)(1) In the case of a commissioned officer on active duty (other than a member of the Ready Reserve), the Secretary concerned may not pay charges under subsection (a) unless the officer agrees to remain on active duty for a period of at least two years after the completion of the training or education for which the charges are paid.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the Secretary concerned may reduce or waive the active duty service obligation—

(A) in the case of a commissioned officer who is subject to mandatory separation;

(B) in the case of a commissioned officer who has completed the period of active duty service for which the officer was ordered to active duty in support of a contingency operation; or

(C) in other exigent circumstances as determined by the Secretary concerned.

(c)(1) Subject to paragraphs (3) and (5), the Secretary concerned may pay the charges of an educational institution for the tuition or expenses described in subsection (a) of a member of the Selected Reserve.

(2) Subject to paragraphs (4) and (5), the Secretary concerned may pay the charges of an educational institution for the tuition or expenses described in subsection (a) of a member of the Individual Ready Reserve who has a military occupational specialty designated by the Secretary concerned for purposes of this subsection.

(3) The Secretary concerned may not pay charges under paragraph (1) for tuition or expenses of an officer of the Selected Reserve unless the officer enters into an agreement to remain a member of the Selected Reserve for at least 4 years after completion of the education or training for which the charges are paid.

(4) The Secretary concerned may not pay charges under paragraph (2) for tuition or expenses of an officer of the Individual Ready Reserve unless the officer enters into an agreement to remain in the Selected Reserve or Individual Ready Reserve for at least 4 years after completion of the education or training for which the charges are paid.

(5) The Secretary of a military department may require an enlisted member of the Selected Reserve or Individual Ready Reserve to enter into an agreement to serve for up to 4 years in the Selected Reserve or Individual Ready Reserve, as the case may be, after completion of the education or training for which tuition or expenses are paid under paragraph (1) or (2), as applicable.

(d)(1) A member of the armed forces who is entitled to basic educational assistance under chapter 30 of title 38 or chapter 1606 of this title may use such entitlement for purposes of paying any portion of the charges described in subsection (a) or (c) that are not paid for by the Secretary of the military department concerned under such subsection.

(2) The use of entitlement under paragraph (1) shall be governed by the provisions of section 3014(b) of title 38, in the case of educational assistance under chapter 30 of such title, and section 16131(k), in the case of educational assistance under chapter 1606 of this title.

(e)(1) If an officer who enters into an agreement under subsection (b) does not complete the period of active duty specified in the agreement, the officer shall be subject to the repayment provisions of section 303a(e) or 373 of title 37.

(2) If a member of the Ready Reserve who enters into an agreement under subsection (c) does not complete the period of service specified in the agreement, the member shall be subject to the repayment provisions of section 303a(e) or 373 of title 37.

(f) This section shall be administered under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense or, with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, the Secretary of Homeland Security.

(g) The provisions of this section pertaining to members of the Ready Reserve, the Selected Reserve, or the Individual Ready Reserve also apply to members of the Space Force in a space force active status who are not on active duty.

(Added Pub. L. 98–525, title XIV, §1401(g)(1), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2618; amended Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title VI, §651(a), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3887; Pub. L. 100–26, §3(4), Apr. 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 273; Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XIV, §1484(i)(4)(A), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1718; Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title VI, §632, Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1684; Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title VI, §675, Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 675; Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title XVI, §1602(a), (b)(1)], Oct. 30, 2000, 114 Stat. 1654, 1654A-358, 1654A-359; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title V, §553(a), (b), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 1912; Pub. L. 109–163, div. A, title VI, §687(c)(3), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3334; Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title V, §521(a)–(d), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 100–102; Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VI, §618(a)(1)(C), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1426; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title V, §559(b), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1742; Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title XVII, §1722(l)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 673.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

Provisions similar to those in this section were contained in the following appropriation acts:

Pub. L. 98–473, title I, §101(h) [title VIII, §8017], Oct. 12, 1984, 98 Stat. 1904, 1926.

Pub. L. 98–212, title VII, §720, Dec. 8, 1983, 97 Stat. 1441.

Pub. L. 97–377, title I, §101(c) [title VII, §721], Dec. 21, 1982, 96 Stat. 1833, 1854.

Pub. L. 97–114, title VII, §721, Dec. 29, 1981, 95 Stat. 1582.

Pub. L. 96–527, title VII, §722, Dec. 15, 1980, 94 Stat. 3084.

Pub. L. 96–154, title VII, §722, Dec. 21, 1979, 93 Stat. 1156.

Pub. L. 95–457, title VIII, §822, Oct. 13, 1978, 92 Stat. 1247.

Pub. L. 95–111, title VIII, §821, Sept. 21, 1977, 91 Stat. 903.

Pub. L. 94–419, title VII, §721, Sept. 22, 1976, 90 Stat. 1295.

Pub. L. 94–212, title VII, §721, Feb. 9, 1976, 90 Stat. 172.

Pub. L. 93–437, title VIII, §821, Oct. 8, 1974, 88 Stat. 1228.

Pub. L. 93–238, title VII, §722, Jan. 2, 1974, 87 Stat. 1042.

Pub. L. 92–570, title VII, §722, Oct. 26, 1972, 86 Stat. 1200.

Pub. L. 92–204, title VII, §722, Dec. 18, 1971, 85 Stat. 731.

Pub. L. 91–668, title VIII, §822, Jan. 11, 1971, 84 Stat. 2034.

Pub. L. 91–171, title VI, §622, Dec. 29, 1969, 83 Stat. 483.

Pub. L. 90–580, title V, §521, Oct. 17, 1968, 82 Stat. 1133.

Pub. L. 90–96, title VI, §621, Sept. 29, 1967, 81 Stat. 246.

Pub. L. 89–687, title VI, §621, Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 995.

Pub. L. 89–213, title VI, §621, Sept. 29, 1965, 79 Stat. 877.

Pub. L. 88–446, title V, §521, Aug. 19, 1964, 78 Stat. 478.

Pub. L. 88–149, title V, §521, Oct. 17, 1963, 77 Stat. 267.

Pub. L. 87–577, title V, §521, Aug. 9, 1962, 76 Stat. 332.

Pub. L. 87–144, title VI, §621, Aug. 17, 1961, 75 Stat. 379.

Pub. L. 86–601, title V, §521, July 7, 1960, 74 Stat. 353.

Pub. L. 86–166, title V, §621, Aug. 18, 1959, 73 Stat. 382.

Pub. L. 85–724, title VI, §623, Aug. 22, 1958, 72 Stat. 727.

Pub. L. 85–117, title VI, §624, Aug. 2, 1957, 71 Stat. 327.

July 2, 1956, ch. 488, title VI, §624, 70 Stat. 471.

July 13, 1955, ch. 358, title VI, §628, 69 Stat. 320.

June 30, 1954, ch. 432, title VII, §730, 68 Stat. 355.

Amendments

2023—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 118–31 added subsec. (g).

2021—Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 117–81, §559(b)(1), inserted "or chapter 1606 of this title" after "of title 38".

Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 117–81, §559(b)(2), inserted before period at end ", in the case of educational assistance under chapter 30 of such title, and section 16131(k), in the case of educational assistance under chapter 1606 of this title".

2017—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 115–91 inserted "or 373" before "of title 37" in pars. (1) and (2).

2008—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(a), substituted "Subject to subsections (b) and (c), the Secretary concerned" for "Subject to subsection (b), the Secretary of a military department".

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(b)(1), struck out "or full-time National Guard duty" after "active duty" in two places, inserted "(other than a member of the Ready Reserve)" after "commissioned officer on active duty", and substituted "the Secretary concerned" for "the Secretary of the military department".

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(b)(2)(A), substituted "the Secretary concerned" for "the Secretary of the military department" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(2)(B). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(b)(2)(B), inserted "for which the officer was ordered to active duty" after "active duty service".

Subsec. (b)(2)(C). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(b)(2)(C), substituted "Secretary concerned" for "Secretary".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(c)(1), amended subsec. (c) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (c) consisted of pars. (1) to (3) which authorized Secretary of the Army, subject to certain limitations, to pay the charges of an educational institution for the tuition or expenses of an officer in the Selected Reserve of the Army National Guard or the Army Reserve for education or training of such officer.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(c)(2), redesignated subsec. (e) as (d) and struck out former subsec. (d) which read as follows: "Subsection (c)(3) may not be construed to prohibit the Secretary of a military department from exercising any authority that the Secretary may have to pay charges of an educational institution in the case of—

"(1) a warrant officer on active duty or full-time National Guard duty;

"(2) a commissioned officer on full-time National Guard duty; or

"(3) a commissioned officer on active duty who satisfies the condition in subsection (b) relating to an agreement to remain on active duty."

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(c)(3), designated existing provisions as par. (1) and added par. (2).

Pub. L. 110–181, §521(c)(2)(B), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e). Former subsec. (e) redesignated (d).

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 110–181, §521(d), added subsec. (f).

Pub. L. 110–181, §521(c)(2)(B), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e).

2006—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 109–163 added subsec. (f).

2004—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 108–375, §553(a), designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted "or full-time National Guard duty" after "active duty" in two places, and added par. (2).

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 108–375, §553(b), amended par. (1) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (1) read as follows: "Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), the Secretary of the Army may pay not more than 75 percent of the charges of an educational institution for the tuition or expenses of an officer in the Selected Reserve of the Army National Guard or the Army Reserve for education or training of such officer in a program leading to a baccalaureate degree."

2000—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title XVI, §1602(a)(1)], added subsec. (a) and struck out former subsec. (a) which read as follows: "The Secretary of a military department may not pay more than 75 percent of the charges of an educational institution for the tuition or expenses of a member of the armed forces enrolled in such institution for education or training during his off-duty periods, except that—

"(1) in the case of an enlisted member in the pay grade of E–5 or higher with less than 14 years' service, not more than 90 percent of the charges may be paid;

"(2) in the case of a member enrolled in a high school completion program, all of the charges may be paid;

"(3) in the case of a commissioned officer on active duty, no part of the charges may be paid unless the officer agrees to remain on active duty for a period of at least two years after the completion of the training or education; and

"(4) in the case of a member serving in a contingency operation or similar operational mission (other than for training) designated by the Secretary concerned, all of the charges may be paid."

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title XVI, §1602(a)(1)], added subsec. (b) and struck out former subsec. (b) which read as follows: "The limitation in subsection (a) does not apply to the Program for Afloat College Education."

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title XVI, §1602(a)(2)(A)], struck out "(within the limits set forth in subsection (a))" after "educational institution" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title XVI, §1602(a)(2)(B)], substituted "subsection (b)" for "subsection (a)(3)".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title XVI, §1602(b)(1)], added subsec. (e).

1999—Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 106–65 added par. (4).

1993—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 103–160 added subsec. (d).

1990—Pub. L. 101–510 substituted "Payment" for "Limitation on payment" in section catchline.

1987—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 100–26 made technical amendment to directory language of Pub. L. 99–661, §651(a)(2). See 1986 Amendment note below.

1986—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 99–661, §651(a)(1), inserted "on active duty".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 99–661, §651(a)(2), as amended by Pub. L. 100–26, added subsec. (c).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title V, §553(c), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 1913, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] may, at the discretion of the Secretary concerned, be applied to a service obligation incurred by an officer serving on active duty as of the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 28, 2004]."

Effective Date of 1987 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 100–26 applicable as if included in Pub. L. 99–661 when enacted on Nov. 14, 1986, see section 12(a) of Pub. L. 100–26, set out as a note under section 776 of this title.

Effective Date of 1986 Amendment

Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title VI, §651(c), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3888, provided that: "Subsection (c) of section 2007 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 14, 1986]."

Effective Date

Section effective Oct. 1, 1985, see section 1404 of Pub. L. 98–525, set out as a note under section 520b of this title.

Savings Provision

For savings provision relating to payment or repayment of any bonus, incentive pay, special pay, or similar pay obligated to be paid before Apr. 1, 2006, under a provision of this section amended by section 687(c) of Pub. L. 109–163, see section 687(f) of Pub. L. 109–163, set out as a note under section 510 of this title.

Information on Institutions of Higher Education Participating in the Department of Defense Tuition Assistance Program

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title V, §560, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1393, provided that:

"(a) List of Participating Institutions.—The Secretary of Defense shall make available, on a publicly accessible website of the Department of Defense, a list that identifies—

"(1) each institution of higher education that receives funds under the Department of Defense Tuition Assistance Program; and

"(2) the amount of such funds received by the institution.

"(b) Annual Updates.—The Secretary of Defense shall update the list described in subsection (a) not less frequently than once annually."

Tuition Payments Contingent Upon Agreement by Officer To Remain in Ready Reserve for At Least Four Years

Pub. L. 104–61, title VIII, §8019, Dec. 1, 1995, 109 Stat. 655, provided that: "Funds appropriated for the Department of Defense during the current fiscal year and hereafter shall be available for the payment of not more than 75 percent of the charges of a postsecondary educational institution for the tuition or expenses of an officer in the Ready Reserve of the Army National Guard or Army Reserve for education or training during his off-duty periods, except that no part of the charges may be paid unless the officer agrees to remain a member of the Ready Reserve for at least four years after completion of such training or education."

Similar provisions were contained in the following prior appropriation acts:

Pub. L. 103–335, title VIII, §8019, Sept. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 2621.

Pub. L. 103–139, title VIII, §8021, Nov. 11, 1993, 107 Stat. 1441.

Pub. L. 102–396, title IX, §9025, Oct. 6, 1992, 106 Stat. 1906.

Pub. L. 102–172, title VIII, §8025, Nov. 26, 1991, 105 Stat. 1177.

Pub. L. 101–511, title VIII, §8025, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1880.

Pub. L. 101–165, title IX, §9035, Nov. 21, 1989, 103 Stat. 1136.

Pub. L. 100–463, title VIII, §8059, Oct. 1, 1988, 102 Stat. 2270–27.

Pub. L. 100–202, §101(b) [title VIII, §8072], Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1329–43, 1329-74.

Pub. L. 99–500, §101(c) [title IX, §9076], Oct. 18, 1986, 100 Stat. 1783–82, 1783-114, and Pub. L. 99–591, §101(c) [title IX, §9076], Oct. 30, 1986, 100 Stat. 3341–82, 3341-114.

Pub. L. 99–190, §101(b) [title VIII, §8086], Dec. 19, 1985, 99 Stat. 1185, 1216.

§2008. Authority to use funds for certain educational purposes

Funds appropriated to the Department of Defense may be used to carry out construction, as defined in section 7013(3) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, or to carry out section 7008 of such Act, relating to the provision of assistance to certain school facilities under the impact aid program.

(Added Pub. L. 98–525, title XIV, §1401(g)(1), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2618; amended Pub. L. 104–106, div. B, title XXVIII, §2891, Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 590; Pub. L. 114–95, title IX, §9215(uuu)(3), Dec. 10, 2015, 129 Stat. 2190.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Sections 7008 and 7013(3) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, referred to in text, are classified to sections 7708 and 7713(3), respectively, of Title 20, Education.

Amendments

2015—Pub. L. 114–95 substituted "section 7013(3) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, or to carry out section 7008 of such Act" for "section 8013(3) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7713(3)), or to carry out section 8008 of such Act (20 U.S.C. 7708)".

1996—Pub. L. 104–106 substituted "construction, as defined in section 8013(3) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7713(3)), or to carry out section 8008 of such Act (20 U.S.C. 7708), relating to the provision of assistance to certain school facilities under the impact aid program." for "section 10 of the Act of September 23, 1950 (20 U.S.C. 640), relating to impact aid authorization."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2015 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 114–95 effective Dec. 10, 2015, except with respect to certain noncompetitive programs and competitive programs, see section 5 of Pub. L. 114–95, set out as a note under section 6301 of Title 20, Education.

Effective Date

Section effective Oct. 1, 1985, see section 1404 of Pub. L. 98–525, set out as a note under section 520b of this title.

§2009. Military colleges: female students

(a) Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, any college or university designated by the Secretary of Defense as a military college shall, as a condition of maintaining such designation, provide that qualified female undergraduate students enrolled in such college or university be eligible to participate in military training at such college or university.

(b) Regulations prescribed under subsection (a) may not require a college or university, as a condition of maintaining its designation as a military college or for any other purpose, to require female undergraduate students enrolled in such college or university to participate in military training.

(Added Pub. L. 98–525, title XIV, §1401(g)(1), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2619.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

Provisions similar to those in this section were contained in Pub. L. 95–485, title VIII, §809, Oct. 20, 1978, 92 Stat. 1623, which was set out as a note under section 2102 of this title, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 98–525, §§1403(b), 1404.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section effective Oct. 1, 1985, see section 1404 of Pub. L. 98–525, set out as a note under section 520b of this title.

[§2010. Renumbered §321]

[§2011. Renumbered §322]

§2012. Support and services for eligible organizations and activities outside Department of Defense

(a) Authority To Provide Services and Support.—Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of a military department may in accordance with this section authorize units or individual members of the armed forces under that Secretary's jurisdiction to provide support and services to non-Department of Defense organizations and activities specified in subsection (e), but only if—

(1) such assistance is authorized by a provision of law (other than this section); or

(2) the provision of such assistance is incidental to military training.

(b) Scope of Covered Activities Subject to Section.—This section does not—

(1) apply to the provision by the Secretary concerned, under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, of customary community relations and public affairs activities conducted in accordance with Department of Defense policy; or

(2) prohibit the Secretary concerned from encouraging members of the armed forces under the Secretary's jurisdiction to provide volunteer support for community relations activities under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense.

(c) Requirement for Specific Request.—Assistance under subsection (a) may only be provided if—

(1) the assistance is requested by a responsible official of the organization to which the assistance is to be provided; and

(2) the assistance is not reasonably available from a commercial entity or (if so available) the official submitting the request for assistance certifies that the commercial entity that would otherwise provide such services has agreed to the provision of such services by the armed forces.

(d) Relationship to Military Training.—(1) Assistance under subsection (a) may only be provided if the following requirements are met:

(A) The provision of such assistance—

(i) in the case of assistance by a unit, will accomplish valid unit training requirements; and

(ii) in the case of assistance by an individual member, will involve tasks directly related to the specific military occupational specialty of the member.

(B) The provision of such assistance will not adversely affect the quality of training or otherwise interfere with the ability of a member or unit of the armed forces to perform the military functions of the member or unit.

(C) The provision of such assistance will not result in a significant increase in the cost of the training.

(2) Subparagraph (A)(i) of paragraph (1) does not apply in a case in which the assistance to be provided consists primarily of military manpower and the total amount of such assistance in the case of a particular project does not exceed 100 man-hours.

(e) Eligible Entities.—The following organizations and activities are eligible for assistance under this section:

(1) Any Federal, regional, State, or local governmental entity.

(2) Youth and charitable organizations specified in section 508 of title 32.

(3) Owners and operators of critical infrastructure (as such term is defined in section 1016(e) of Public Law 107–56 (42 U.S.C. 5195c(e))).

(4) Any other entity as may be approved by the Secretary of Defense on a case-by-case basis.

(f) Regulations.—The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations governing the provision of assistance under this section. The regulations shall include the following:

(1) Rules governing the types of assistance that may be provided.

(2) Procedures governing the delivery of assistance that ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that such assistance is provided in conjunction with, rather than separate from, civilian efforts.

(3) Procedures for appropriate coordination with civilian officials to ensure that the assistance—

(A) meets a valid need; and

(B) does not duplicate other available public services.

(4) Procedures to ensure that Department of Defense resources are not applied exclusively to the program receiving the assistance.

(5) Procedures to ensure that assistance provided to an entity specified in subsection (e)(3) is provided in a manner that is consistent with similar assistance provided under authorities applicable to other Federal departments and agencies, including the authorities of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency of the Department of Homeland Security pursuant to title XXII of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 651 et seq.).

(g) Treatment of Member's Participation in Provision of Support or Services.—(1) The Secretary of a military department may not require or request a member of the armed forces to submit for consideration by a selection board (including a promotion board, command selection board, or any other kind of selection board) evidence of the member's participation in the provision of support and services to non-Department of Defense organizations and activities under this section or the member's involvement in, or support of, other community relations and public affairs activities of the armed forces.

(2) Paragraph (1) does not prevent a selection board from considering material submitted voluntarily by a member of the armed forces which provides evidence of the participation of that member or another member in activities described in that paragraph.

(h) Advisory Councils.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall encourage the establishment of advisory councils at regional, State, and local levels, as appropriate, in order to obtain recommendations and guidance concerning assistance under this section from persons who are knowledgeable about regional, State, and local conditions and needs.

(2) The advisory councils should include officials from relevant military organizations, representatives of appropriate local, State, and Federal agencies, representatives of civic and social service organizations, business representatives, and labor representatives.

(3) Chapter 10 of title 5 shall not apply to such councils.

(i) Construction of Provision.—(1) Nothing in this section shall be construed as authorizing—

(A) the use of the armed forces for civilian law enforcement purposes or, except as provided in paragraph (2), for response to natural or manmade disasters; or

(B) the use of Department of Defense personnel or resources for any program, project, or activity that is prohibited by law.

(2) Funds available to the Secretary of a military department for operation and maintenance for the Innovative Readiness Training program (as established pursuant to this section) may be expended under this section, upon approval by the Secretary concerned, to assist in demolition, clearing of roads, infrastructure improvements, and military construction to restore an area after a natural disaster.

(j) Oversight and Cost Accounting.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish a program to improve the oversight and cost accounting of training projects conducted in accordance with this section. The program shall include measures to accomplish the following:

(1) Ensure that each project that is proposed to be conducted in accordance with this section (regardless of whether additional funding from the Secretary of Defense is sought) is requested in writing, reviewed for full compliance with this section, and approved in advance of initiation by the Secretary of the military department concerned and, in the case of a project that seeks additional funding from the Secretary of Defense, by the Secretary of Defense.

(2) Ensure that each project that is conducted in accordance with this section is required to provide, within a specified period following completion of the project, an after-action report to the Secretary of Defense.

(3) Require that each application for a project to be conducted in accordance with this section include an analysis and certification that the proposed project would not result in a significant increase in the cost of training (as determined in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Secretary of Defense).

(4) Determine the total program cost for each project, including both those costs that are borne by the military departments from their own accounts and those costs that are borne by defense-wide accounts.

(5) Provide for oversight of project execution to ensure that a training project under this section is carried out in accordance with the proposal for that project as approved.

(Added Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title V, §572(a)(1), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 353; amended Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title V, §594, Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1764; Pub. L. 105–261, div. A, title V, §525(a), Oct. 17, 1998, 112 Stat. 2014; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title XV, §1512, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2039; Pub. L. 117–286, §4(a)(51), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4311; Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title III, §341, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 223.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Homeland Security Act of 2002, referred to in subsec. (f)(5), is Pub. L. 107–296, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2135. Title XXII of the Act is classified principally to subchapter XVIII (§651 et seq.) of chapter 1 of Title 6. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 101 of Title 6 and Tables.

Amendments

2023—Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 118–31 designated existing provisions as par. (1), redesignated former pars. (1) and (2) as subpars. (A) and (B), respectively, of par. (1), inserted ", except as provided in paragraph (2)," before "for response" in subpar. (A), and added par. (2).

2022—Subsec. (h)(3). Pub. L. 117–286 substituted "Chapter 10 of title 5" for "The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.)".

2021—Subsec. (e)(3), (4). Pub. L. 117–81, §1512(1), added par. (3) and redesignated former par. (3) as (4).

Subsec. (f)(5). Pub. L. 117–81, §1512(2), added par. (5).

1998—Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 105–261 added subsec. (j).

1997—Subsecs. (g) to (i). Pub. L. 105–85 added subsec. (g) and redesignated former subsecs. (g) and (h) as (h) and (i), respectively.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Implementation

Pub. L. 105–261, div. A, title V, §525(b), Oct. 17, 1998, 112 Stat. 2014, as amended by Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title X, §1066(b)(4), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 772, provided that: "The Secretary of Defense may not initiate any project under section 2012 of title 10, United States Code, after October 1, 1998, until the program required by subsection (j) of that section (as added by subsection (a)) has been established."

Termination of Funding for Office of Civil-Military Programs in Office of the Secretary of Defense

Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title V, §574, Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 356, provided that: "No funds may be obligated or expended after the date of the enactment of this Act [Feb. 10, 1996] (1) for the office that as of the date of the enactment of this Act is designated, within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs [now Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs], as the Office of Civil-Military Programs, or (2) for any other entity within the Office of the Secretary of Defense that has an exclusive or principal mission of providing centralized direction for activities under section 2012 of title 10, United States Code, as added by section 572."

§2013. Training at non-Government facilities

(a) Authority To Enter Into Agreements.—(1) The Secretary concerned, without regard to section 6101 of title 41, may make agreements or other arrangements for the training of members of the uniformed services under the jurisdiction of that Secretary by, in, or through non-Government facilities.

(2) In this section, the term "non-Government facility" means any of the following:

(A) The government of a State or of a territory or possession of the United States, including the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, an interstate governmental organization, and a unit, subdivision, or instrumentality of any of the foregoing.

(B) A foreign government or international organization, or instrumentality of either, which is designated by the President as eligible to provide training under this section.

(C) A medical, scientific, technical, educational, research, or professional institution, foundation, or organization.

(D) A business, commercial, or industrial firm, corporation, partnership, proprietorship, or other organization.

(E) Individuals other than civilian or military personnel of the Government.

(F) The services and property of any of the foregoing providing the training.

(b) Expenses.—The Secretary concerned, from appropriations or other funds available to the Secretary, may—

(1) pay all or a part of the pay of a member of a uniformed service who is selected and assigned for training under this section, for the period of training; and

(2) pay, or reimburse the member of a uniformed service for, all or a part of the necessary expenses of the training (without regard to subsections (a) and (b) of section 3324 of title 31), including among those expenses the necessary costs of the following:

(A) Travel and per diem instead of subsistence under sections 405 and 452 of title 37 and the Joint Travel Regulations for the Uniformed Services.

(B) Transportation of immediate family, household goods and personal effects, packing, crating, temporarily storing, draying, and unpacking under sections 452 and 453(c) of title 37 and the Joint Travel Regulations for the Uniformed Services when the estimated costs of transportation and related services are less than the estimated aggregate per diem payments for the period of training.

(C) Tuition and matriculation fees.

(D) Library and laboratory services.

(E) Purchase or rental of books, materials, and supplies.

(F) Other services or facilities directly related to the training of the member.

(c) Certain Expenses Excluded.—The expenses of training do not include membership fees except to the extent that the fee is a necessary cost directly related to the training itself or that payment of the fee is a condition precedent to undergoing the training.

(Added Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title III, §362(a)(1), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2491; amended Pub. L. 111–350, §5(b)(2), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3842; Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title VI, §631(f)(4)(A), Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1465; Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title X, §1076(a)(9), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1948; Pub. L. 113–291, div. A, title X, §1071(a)(1), Dec. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 3504; Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VI, §626(c)(6), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2628.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (b)(2)(A). Pub. L. 117–263, §626(c)(6)(A), substituted "sections 405 and 452" for "sections 474 and 475".

Subsec. (b)(2)(B). Pub. L. 117–263, §626(c)(6)(B), substituted "sections 452 and 453(c)" for "sections 476 and 479".

2014—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 113–291 substituted "section 6101 of title 41" for "section 6101(b)–(d) of title 41".

2013—Subsec. (b)(2)(A), (B). Pub. L. 112–239, §1076(a)(9), made technical amendment to directory language of Pub. L. 112–81, §631(f)(4)(A). See 2011 Amendment note below.

2011—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 111–350 substituted "section 6101(b)–(d) of title 41" for "section 3709 of the Revised Statutes (41 U.S.C. 5)".

Subsec. (b)(2)(A), (B). Pub. L. 112–81, §631(f)(4)(A), as amended by Pub. L. 112–239, §1076(a)(9), substituted "474" for "404" and "475" for "405" in subpar. (A), and "476" for "406" and "479" for "409" in subpar. (B).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2013 Amendment

Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title X, §1076(a), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1947, provided that the amendment made by section 1076(a)(9) is effective Dec. 31, 2011, and as if included in Pub. L. 112–81 as enacted.

Effective Date

Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title III, §362(b), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2493, provided that: "Section 2013 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall take effect on October 1, 1996."

§2014. Administrative actions adversely affecting military training or other readiness activities

(a) Congressional Notification.—Whenever an official of an Executive agency takes or proposes to take an administrative action that, as determined by the Secretary of Defense in consultation with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, affects training or any other readiness activity in a manner that has or would have a significant adverse effect on the military readiness of any of the armed forces or a critical component thereof, the Secretary shall submit a written notification of the action and each significant adverse effect to the head of the Executive agency taking or proposing to take the administrative action. At the same time, the Secretary shall transmit a copy of the notification to the President, the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate, and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives.

(b) Notification To Be Prompt.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary shall submit a written notification of an administrative action or proposed administrative action required by subsection (a) as soon as possible after the Secretary becomes aware of the action or proposed action.

(2) The Secretary shall prescribe policies and procedures to ensure that the Secretary receives information on an administrative action or proposed administrative action described in subsection (a) promptly after Department of Defense personnel receive notice of such an action or proposed action.

(c) Consultation Between Secretary and Head of Executive Agency.—Upon notification with respect to an administrative action or proposed administrative action under subsection (a), the head of the Executive agency concerned shall—

(1) respond promptly to the Secretary; and

(2) consistent with the urgency of the training or readiness activity involved and the provisions of law under which the administrative action or proposed administrative action is being taken, seek to reach an agreement with the Secretary on immediate actions to attain the objective of the administrative action or proposed administrative action in a manner which eliminates or mitigates the adverse effects of the administrative action or proposed administrative action upon the training or readiness activity.

(d) Moratorium.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), upon notification with respect to an administrative action or proposed administrative action under subsection (a), the administrative action or proposed administrative action shall cease to be effective with respect to the Department of Defense until the earlier of—

(A) the end of the five-day period beginning on the date of the notification; or

(B) the date of an agreement between the head of the Executive agency concerned and the Secretary as a result of the consultations under subsection (c).

(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply with respect to an administrative action or proposed administrative action if the head of the Executive agency concerned determines that the delay in enforcement of the administrative action or proposed administrative action will pose an actual threat of an imminent and substantial endangerment to public health or the environment.

(e) Effect of Lack of Agreement.—(1) If the head of an Executive agency and the Secretary do not enter into an agreement under subsection (c)(2), the Secretary shall submit a written notification to the President who shall take final action on the matter.

(2) Not later than 30 days after the date on which the President takes final action on a matter under paragraph (1), the President shall submit to the committees referred to in subsection (a) a notification of the action.

(f) Limitation on Delegation of Authority.—The head of an Executive agency may not delegate any responsibility under this section.

(g) Definition.—In this section, the term "Executive agency" has the meaning given such term in section 105 of title 5, except that the term does not include the Government Accountability Office.

(Added Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title III, §325(a), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1678; amended Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title X, §1067(1), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 774; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title X, §1084(c)(3), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2061.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 108–375 substituted "Government Accountability Office" for "General Accounting Office".

1999—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–65 substituted "and the Committee on Armed Services" for "and the Committee on National Security".

§2015. Program to assist members in obtaining professional credentials

(a) Program Required.—The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security, with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, shall carry out a program to enable members of the armed forces to obtain, while serving in the armed forces, professional credentials that translate into civilian occupations.

(b) Payment of Expenses.—(1) Under the program required by this section, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security, with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, shall provide for the payment of expenses of members for professional accreditation, Federal occupational licenses, State-imposed and professional licenses, professional certification, and related expenses.

(2) The authority under paragraph (1) may not be used to pay the expenses of a member to obtain professional credentials that are a prerequisite for appointment in the armed forces.

(c) Quality Assurance of Certification Programs and Standards.—(1) Commencing not later than three years after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016, each Secretary concerned shall ensure that any credentialing program used in connection with the program under subsection (a) meets one of the requirements specified in paragraph (2).

(2) The requirements for a credentialing program specified in this paragraph are that the credentialing program—

(A) is accredited by a nationally-recognized, third-party personnel certification program accreditor;

(B)(i) is sought or accepted by employers within the industry or sector involved as a recognized, preferred, or required credential for recruitment, screening, hiring, retention, or advancement purposes; and

(ii) where appropriate, is endorsed by a nationally-recognized trade association or organization representing a significant part of the industry or sector;

(C) grants licenses that are recognized by the Federal Government or a State government; or

(D) meets credential standards of a Federal agency.

(d) Regulations.—(1) The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall prescribe regulations to carry out this section.

(2) The regulations shall apply uniformly to the armed forces to the extent practicable.

(3) The regulations shall include the following:

(A) Requirements for eligibility for participation in the program under this section.

(B) A description of the professional credentials and occupations covered by the program.

(C) Mechanisms for oversight of the payment of expenses and the provision of other benefits under the program.

(D) Such other matters in connection with the payment of expenses and the provision of other benefits under the program as the Secretaries consider appropriate.

(e) Expenses Defined.—In this section, the term "expenses" means expenses for class room instruction, hands-on training (and associated materials), manuals, study guides and materials, text books, processing fees, and test fees and related fees.

(Added Pub. L. 109–163, div. A, title V, §538(a), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3250; amended Pub. L. 113–291, div. A, title V, §551(a), Dec. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 3376; Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title V, §559, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 827; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title V, §561, Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2137; Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title V, §556, Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1773.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016, referred to in subsec. (c)(1), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 114–92, which was approved Nov. 25, 2015.

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 115–232 substituted "that translate into civilian occupations." for "related to military training and skills that—

"(1) are acquired during service in the armed forces; and

"(2) translate into civilian occupations."

2016—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 114–328, §561(a), struck out "incident to the performance of their military duties" after "in the armed forces".

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 114–328, §561(b)(1), substituted "meets one of the requirements specified in paragraph (2)." for "is accredited by an accreditation body that meets the requirements specified in paragraph (2)."

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 114–328, §561(b)(2), added par. (2) and struck out former par. (2) which read as follows: "The requirements for accreditation bodies specified in this paragraph are requirements that an accreditation body—

"(A) be an independent body that has in place mechanisms to ensure objectivity and impartiality in its accreditation activities;

"(B) meet a recognized national or international standard that directs its policy and procedures regarding accreditation;

"(C) apply a recognized national or international certification standard in making its accreditation decisions regarding certification bodies and programs;

"(D) conduct on-site visits, as applicable, to verify the documents and records submitted by credentialing bodies for accreditation;

"(E) have in place policies and procedures to ensure due process when addressing complaints and appeals regarding its accreditation activities;

"(F) conduct regular training to ensure consistent and reliable decisions among reviewers conducting accreditations; and

"(G) meet such other criteria as the Secretary concerned considers appropriate in order to ensure quality in its accreditation activities."

2015—Subsecs. (c) to (e). Pub. L. 114–92 added subsec. (c) and redesignated former subsecs. (c) and (d) as (d) and (e), respectively.

2014—Pub. L. 113–291 amended section generally. Prior to amendment, section related to payment of certain expenses to obtain professional credentials.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Improvements to the Credentialing Opportunities On-Line Programs of the Armed Forces

Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title V, §578, Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3649, provided that:

"(a) Study on Performance Measures.—The Secretary of Defense shall conduct a study to determine additional performance measures to evaluate the effectiveness of the Credentialing Opportunities On-Line programs (in this section referred to as the 'COOL programs') of each Armed Force in connecting members of the Armed Forces with professional credential programs. The study shall include the following:

"(1) The percentage of members of the Armed Force concerned described in section 1142(a) of title 10, United States Code, who participate in a professional credential program through the COOL program of the Armed Force concerned.

"(2) The percentage of members of the Armed Force concerned described in paragraph (1) who have completed a professional credential program described in that paragraph.

"(3) The amount of funds obligated and expended to execute the COOL program of each Armed Force during the five fiscal years immediately preceding the date of the study.

"(4) Any other element determined by the Secretary of Defense.

"(b) Information Tracking.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish a process to standardize the tracking of information regarding the COOL programs across the Armed Forces.

"(c) Coordination.—To carry out this section, the Secretary of Defense may coordinate with the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs and Labor.

"(d) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 1, 2021], the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a report on—

"(1) the study conducted under subsection (a); and

"(2) the process established under subsection (b), including a timeline to implement such process."

Programs To Facilitate the Award of Private Pilot's Certificates

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title V, §560B, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1393, provided that:

"(a) Programs Authorized.—Each Secretary of a military department may carry out a program under which qualified participants may obtain a private pilot's certificate through an institution of higher education with an accredited aviation program that is approved by such Secretary pursuant to subsection (c).

"(b) Participant Qualifications and Types of Assistance.—

"(1) In general.—In carrying out a program under subsection (a), the Secretary of a military department shall prescribe—

"(A) the standards to be met for participation in the program; and

"(B) the types of assistance, if any, to be provided to individuals who participate in the program.

"(2) Uniformity across military departments.—To the extent practicable, the standards and types of assistance prescribed under paragraph (1) shall be uniform across the military departments.

"(c) Approved Institutions of Higher Education.—

"(1) In general.—In carrying out a program under subsection (a), the Secretary of a military department shall maintain a list of institutions of higher education (as that term is defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)) through which an individual participating in the program may obtain a private pilot's certificate.

"(2) Qualifications and standards.—Any institution of higher education included on a list under paragraph (1), and any course of instruction toward obtaining a private pilot's certificate offered by such institution, shall meet such qualifications and standards as the Secretary shall prescribe for purposes of the program. Such qualifications and standards shall include a requirement that any institution included on the list award, to individual participating in the program, academic credit at such institution for any portion of course work completed on the ground school course of instruction of such institution in connection with obtaining a private pilot's certificate, regardless of whether the participant fully completed the ground school course of instruction.

"(d) Annual Reports on Programs.—

"(1) In general.—Not later than February 28, 2021, and each year thereafter, each Secretary of a military department shall submit to Congress a report on the program, if any, carried out by such Secretary under subsection (a) during the preceding calendar year.

"(2) Elements.—Each report under paragraph (1) shall include, for the program and year covered by such report, the following:

"(A) The total number of participants in the program.

"(B) The number of private pilot's certificates awarded to participants in the program.

"(C) The number of participants in the program who fully completed a ground school course of instruction in connection with obtaining a private pilot's certificate."

Pilot Program on Earning by Special Operations Forces Medics of Credit Toward a Physician Assistant Degree

Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title VII, §735, Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1819, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs may conduct a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of partnerships between special operations forces and institutions of higher education, and health care systems if determined appropriate by the Assistant Secretary for purposes of the pilot program, through which special operations forces medics earn credit toward the master's degree of physician assistant for military operational work and training performed by the medics.

"(b) Duration.—The Assistant Secretary shall conduct the pilot program for a period not to exceed five years.

"(c) Clinical Training.—Partnerships under subsection (a) shall permit medics participating in the pilot program to conduct clinical training at medical facilities of the Department of Defense and the civilian sector.

"(d) Evaluation.—The evaluation of work and training performed by medics for which credits are earned under the pilot program shall comply with civilian clinical evaluation standards applicable to the awarding of the master's degree of physician assistant.

"(e) Reports.—

"(1) Initial report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 13, 2018], the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the pilot program that shall include the following:

"(A) A comprehensive framework for the military education to be provided to special operations forces medics under the pilot program, including courses of instruction at institutions of higher education and any health care systems participating in the pilot program.

"(B) Metrics to be used to assess the effectiveness of the pilot program.

"(C) A description of the mechanisms to be used by the Department, medics, or both to cover the costs of education received by medics under the pilot program through institutions of higher education or health care systems, including payment by the Department in return for a military service commitment, tuition or other educational assistance by the Department, use by medics of post-9/11 educational assistance available through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and any other mechanisms the Secretary considers appropriate for purposes of the pilot program.

"(2) Final report.—Not later than 180 days after completion of the pilot program, the Secretary shall submit to the committees of Congress referred to in paragraph (1) a final report on the pilot program. The report shall include the following:

"(A) An evaluation of the pilot program using the metrics of assessment set forth pursuant to paragraph (1)(B).

"(B) An assessment of the utility of the funding mechanisms set forth pursuant to paragraph (1)(C).

"(C) An assessment of the effects of the pilot program on recruitment and retention of medics for special operations forces.

"(D) An assessment of the feasibility and advisability of extending one or more authorities for joint professional military education under chapter 107 of title 10, United States Code, to warrant officers or enlisted personnel, and if the Secretary considers the extension of any such authorities feasible and advisable, recommendations for legislative or administrative action to so extend such authorities.

"(f) Construction of Authorities.—Nothing in this section may be construed to—

"(1) authorize an officer or employee of the Federal Government to create, endorse, or otherwise incentivize a particular curriculum or degree track; or

"(2) require, direct, review, or control a State or educational institution, or the instructional content, curriculum, and related activities of a State or educational institution."

Enhancement of Mechanisms To Correlate Skills and Training for Military Occupational Specialties With Skills and Training Required for Civilian Certifications and Licenses

Pub. L. 113–66, div. A, title V, §542, Dec. 26, 2013, 127 Stat. 762, provided that:

"(a) Improvement of Information Available to Members of the Armed Forces About Correlation.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretaries of the military departments, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, shall, to the maximum extent practicable, make information on civilian credentialing opportunities available to members of the Armed Forces beginning with, and at every stage of, training of members for military occupational specialties, in order to permit members—

"(A) to evaluate the extent to which such training correlates with the skills and training required in connection with various civilian certifications and licenses; and

"(B) to assess the suitability of such training for obtaining or pursuing such civilian certifications and licenses.

"(2) Coordination with transition goals plans success program.—Information shall be made available under paragraph (1) in a manner consistent with the Transition Goals Plans Success (GPS) program.

"(3) Types of information.—The information made available under paragraph (1) shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

"(A) Information on the civilian occupational equivalents of military occupational specialties (MOS).

"(B) Information on civilian license or certification requirements, including examination requirements.

"(C) Information on the availability and opportunities for use of educational benefits available to members of the Armed Forces, as appropriate, corresponding training, or continuing education that leads to a certification exam in order to provide a pathway to credentialing opportunities.

"(4) Use and adaptation of certain programs.—In making information available under paragraph (1), the Secretaries of the military departments may use and adapt appropriate portions of the Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) programs of the Army and the Navy and the Credentialing and Educational Research Tool (CERT) of the Air Force.

"(b) Improvement of Access of Accredited Civilian Credentialing and Related Entities to Military Training Content.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretaries of the military departments, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, shall, to the maximum extent practicable consistent with national security and privacy requirements, make available to entities specified in paragraph (2), upon request of such entities, information such as military course training curricula, syllabi, and materials, levels of military advancement attained, and professional skills developed.

"(2) Entities.—The entities specified in this paragraph are the following:

"(A) Civilian credentialing agencies.

"(B) Entities approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, or by State approving agencies, for purposes of the use of educational assistance benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

"(3) Central repository.—The actions taken pursuant to paragraph (1) may include the establishment of a central repository of information on training and training materials provided members in connection with military occupational specialities that is readily accessible by entities specified in paragraph (2) in order to meet requests described in paragraph (1)."

Pilot Program on Receipt of Civilian Credentialing for Skills Required for Military Occupational Specialties

Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title V, §558, Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1418, as amended by Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title V, §543, Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1737, provided that:

"(a) Pilot Program Required.—Commencing not later than nine months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 31, 2011], the Secretary of Defense shall carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of permitting enlisted members of the Armed Forces to obtain civilian credentialing or licensing for skills required for military occupational specialties (MOS) or qualification for duty specialty codes.

"(b) Elements.—In carrying out the pilot program, the Secretary shall—

"(1) designate not less than three military occupational specialities or duty speciality codes for coverage under the pilot program;

"(2) consider utilizing industry-recognized certifications or licensing standards for civilian occupational skills comparable to the specialties or codes so designated; and

"(3) permit enlisted members of the Armed Forces to obtain the credentials or licenses required for the specialities or codes so designated through civilian credentialing or licensing entities, institutions, or bodies selected by the Secretary for purposes of the pilot program, whether concurrently with military training, at the completion of military training, or both.

"(c) Duration.—The Secretary shall complete the pilot program by not later than five years after the date of the commencement of the pilot program.

"(d) Report.—Not later than one year after commencement of the pilot program, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the pilot program. The report shall set forth the following:

"(1) The number of enlisted members who participated in the pilot program.

"(2) A description of the costs incurred by the Department of Defense in connection with the receipt by members of credentialing or licensing under the pilot program.

"(3) A comparison of the cost associated with receipt by members of credentialing or licensing under the pilot program with the cost of receipt of similar credentialing or licensing by recently-discharged veterans of the Armed Forces under programs currently operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Labor.

"(4) The recommendation of the Secretary as to the feasibility and advisability of expanding the pilot program to additional military occupational specialties or duty specialty codes, and, if such expansion is considered feasible and advisable, a list of the military occupational specialties and duty specialty codes recommended for inclusion in the expansion."

Executive Documents

Ex. Ord. No. 13860. Supporting the Transition of Active Duty Service Members and Military Veterans Into the Merchant Marine

Ex. Ord. No. 13860, Mar. 4, 2019, 84 F.R. 8407, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and to promote employment opportunities for United States military veterans while growing the cadre of trained United States mariners available to meet United States requirements for national and economic security, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to support practices and programs that ensure that members of the United States Armed Forces receive appropriate credit for their military training and experience, upon request, toward credentialing requirements as a merchant mariner. It is further the policy of the United States to establish and maintain an effective merchant marine program by providing sufficient support and resources to active duty and separating service members who pursue or possess merchant mariner credentials.

A robust merchant marine is vital to the national and economic security of the United States. Credentialed United States merchant mariners support domestic and international trade, are critical for strategic defensive and offensive military sealift operations, and bring added expertise to Federal vessel operations. Unfortunately, the United States faces a shortage of qualified merchant mariners. As our strategic competitors expand their global footprint, the United States must retain its ability to project and sustain forces globally. This capability requires a sufficient corps of credentialed merchant mariners available to crew the necessary sealift fleet. Attracting additional trained and credentialed mariners, particularly from active duty service members and military veterans, will support United States national security requirements and provide meaningful, well-paying jobs to United States veterans.

Sec. 2. Definition. For the purposes of this order, the term "applicable service" includes any of the "armed forces," as that term is defined in section 101(a)(4)(A) [sic] of title 10, United States Code.

Sec. 3. Credentialing Support. (a) To support merchant mariner credentialing and the maintenance of such credentials, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security, with respect to the applicable services in their respective departments, and in coordination with one another and with the United States Committee on the Marine Transportation System, shall, consistent with applicable law:

(i) Within 1 year from the date of this order [Mar. 4, 2019], identify all military training and experience within the applicable service that may qualify for merchant mariner credentialing, and submit a list of all identified military training and experience to the United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center for a determination of whether such training and experience counts for credentialing purposes;

(ii) With respect to National Maritime Center license evaluation, issuance, and examination, take all necessary and appropriate actions to provide for the waiver of fees for active duty service members, if a waiver is authorized and appropriate, and, if a waiver is not granted, take all necessary and appropriate actions to provide for the payment of fees for active duty service members by the applicable service to the fullest extent permitted by law;

(iii) Direct the applicable services to take all necessary and appropriate actions to pay for Transportation Worker Identification Credential cards for active duty service members pursuing or possessing a mariner credential;

(iv) Ensure that members of the applicable services who are to be discharged or released from active duty and who request certification or verification of sea service be provided such certification or verification no later than 1 month after discharge or release; and

(v) Ensure the applicable services have developed, or continue to operate, as appropriate, the online resource known as Credentialing Opportunities On-Line to support separating service members seeking information and assistance on merchant mariner credentialing.

(b) The United States Committee on the Marine Transportation System shall pursue innovative ways to support merchant mariner credentialing, including through continuation of the Military to Mariner Initiative as appropriate, and shall provide a yearly status report on its efforts under the provisions of this order to the President through the White House Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy.

Sec. 4. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Donald J. Trump.      

§2016. Undergraduate nurse training program: establishment through agreement with academic institution

(a) Establishment Authorized.—(1) To increase the number of nurses in the armed forces, the Secretary of Defense may enter into an agreement with one or more academic institutions to establish and operate an undergraduate program (in this section referred to as a "undergraduate nurse training program") under which participants will earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing and serve as a member of the armed forces.

(2) The Secretary of Defense may authorize the participation of members of the other uniformed services in the undergraduate nurse training program if the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Health and Human Services jointly determine the participation of such members in the program will facilitate an increase in the number of nurses in the other uniformed services.

(b) Graduation Rates.—An undergraduate nurse training program shall have the capacity to graduate 25 students with a bachelor of science degree in nursing in the first class of the program, 50 in the second class, and 100 annually thereafter.

(c) Elements.—An undergraduate nurse training program shall have the following elements:

(1) It shall involve an academic partnership with one or more academic institutions with existing accredited schools of nursing.

(2) It shall recruit as participants qualified individuals with at least two years of appropriate academic preparation, as determined by the Secretary of Defense.

(d) Location of Programs.—(1) An academic institution selected to operate an undergraduate nurse training program shall establish the program at or near a military installation that has a military treatment facility designated as a medical center with inpatient capability and multiple graduate medical education programs located on the installation or within reasonable proximity to the installation.

(2) Before approving a location as the site of an undergraduate nurse training program, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct an assessment to ensure that the establishment of the program at that location will not adversely impact or displace existing nurse training programs, either conducted by the Department of Defense or by a civilian entity, at the location.

(e) Limitation on Faculty.—An agreement entered into under subsection (a) shall not require members of the armed forces who are nurses to serve as faculty members for an undergraduate nurse training program.

(f) Military Service Commitment.—The Secretary of Defense shall encourage members of the armed forces to apply to participate in an undergraduate nurse training program. Graduates of the program shall incur a military service obligation in a regular or reserve component, as determined by the Secretary.

(Added Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title V, §525(b)(1), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2286; amended Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title V, §551(a)–(c), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4219.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2011—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 111–383, §551(a), substituted "a bachelor of science degree in nursing" for "a nursing degree".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 111–383, §551(b), inserted "in nursing" after "bachelor of science degree".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 111–383, §551(c), amended subsec. (d) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "An academic institution selected to operate an undergraduate nurse training program shall establish the program at or near a military installation. A military installation at or near which an undergraduate nurse training program is established must—

"(1) be one of the ten largest military installations in the United States, in terms of the number of active duty personnel assigned to the installation and family members residing on or in the vicinity of the installations; and

"(2) have a military treatment facility with inpatient capability designated as a medical center located on the installation or within 10 miles of the installation."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Plan and Pilot Program To Establish Undergraduate Nurse Training Program

Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title V, §525(c)–(f), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2287, 2288, as amended by Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title V, §551(d), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4219, provided that:

"(c) Undergraduate Nurse Training Program Plan.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 28, 2009], the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a plan to establish an undergraduate nurse training program in the Department of Defense in accordance with the authority provided by section 2169 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), section 2016 of such title, as added by subsection (b), or any other authority available to the Secretary.

"(d) Pilot Program.—

"(1) Pilot program required.—The plan required by subsection (c) shall provide for the establishment of a pilot program to increase the number of nurses serving in the Armed Forces.

"(2) Implementation and duration.—The pilot program shall begin not later than December 31, 2011, and be of not less than five years in duration.

"(3) Graduation rates.—The goal of the pilot program is to achieve graduation rates at least equal to the rates required for the undergraduate nurse training programs authorized by section 2016 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (b).

"(4) Implementation report.—Not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 28, 2009], the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a report on the pilot program, including a description of the program selected to be undertaken, the program's goals, and any additional legal authorities that may be needed to undertake the program.

"(5) Progress reports.—Not later than 90 days after the end of each academic year of the pilot program, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a report specifying the number of nurses accessed into the Armed Forces through the program and the number of students accepted for the upcoming academic year.

"(6) Final report.—Not later than one year before the end of the pilot program, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives a report specifying the number of nurses accessed through the program, evaluating the overall effectiveness of the program, and containing the Secretary's recommendations regarding whether the program should be extended.

"(e) Effect on Other Nursing Programs.—Notwithstanding the development of undergraduate nurse training programs under the amendments made by this section [enacting this section and section 2169 of this title and repealing section 2117 of this title] and subsection (d), the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that graduate degree programs in nursing, including advanced practice nursing, continue.

"(f) Effect on Other Recruitment Efforts.—Nothing in this section shall be construed as limiting or terminating any current or future program of the Department of Defense related to the recruitment, accession, training, or retention of nurses."

§2017. Limitation on establishment of postsecondary educational institutions pending notice to Congress

(a) Limitation.—The Secretary of Defense may not establish a postsecondary educational institution within the Department of Defense until a period of one year has elapsed following the date on which the Secretary notifies the congressional defense committees of the intent of the Secretary to establish the institution.

(b) Postsecondary Educational Institution Defined.—In this section, the term "postsecondary educational institution" means a school or other educational institution that is intended to provide students with a course of instruction that is comparable, in length and academic rigor, to a course of instruction for which an associate's, bachelor's, or graduate degree may be awarded.

(Added Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title V, §553(b)(1), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1387.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Applicability

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title V, §553(b)(3), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1387, provided that: "Section 2017 of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1), shall apply with respect to postsecondary educational institutions intended to be established by the Secretary of Defense on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019]."