Lloyd J. Austin III Secretary of Defence | Official website
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced seven initiatives to improve the quality of life for Service members and their families today. These actions build on the extensive measures taken over the past four years as part of Austin's Taking Care of People initiative.
Secretary Austin directed the implementation of several measures:
Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts (HCFSAs) for Service Members: To reduce out-of-pocket health care costs, the Department of Defense (DoD) will make HCFSAs available to Service members through a Special Enrollment Period in March 2025. HCFSAs enable Service members to set aside up to $3,200 in pretax earnings per Service member for health care costs such as co-payments, contact lenses, glasses, dental care, and annual deductibles.
Access to Wi-Fi Pilot: The DoD is implementing pilot projects to provide high-speed Wi-Fi internet access at no cost to junior enlisted Service members living in unaccompanied housing. This initiative aims to form a long-term plan for a Wi-Fi connected force.
Making Moves Easier: The DoD will increase Temporary Lodging Expense reimbursement from 14 days to 21 days and allow Temporary Lodging Allowance authorization for up to 60 days when necessary for a Service member or dependent leaving a permanent duty station outside the continental United States. Additionally, a study will be initiated to review and evaluate increasing household goods weight allowances for Service members.
Further Expand Spouse Eligibility for My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Financial Assistance: Eligibility for MyCAA financial assistance will be expanded to spouses of active-duty Service members and spouses of National Guard and reserve Service members on Title 10 orders in the E-7, E-8, E-9, and W-3 ranks. Financial assistance may be used for pursuing licenses, certifications, associate degrees, testing for college credit, and continuing education units.
Investment in Childcare Workforce: To improve access to childcare for military families, the DoD is working with Congress to fund compensation increases for childcare providers and add key positions such as lead educators and special needs inclusion coordinators.
Quality of Life at Remote and Isolated Installations Review: The DoD will conduct a review on risk factors and prevention capabilities at three remote installations. The results will inform improvements in quality of life at those locations.
Uniform Costs Review: The DoD will review standard uniform clothing items issued to enlisted personnel and monetary uniform replacement allowance rates to ensure they are sufficient.
The Department continues collaboration with Congress and state partners to ensure successful implementation and ongoing support of these initiatives.
Find Secretary Austin's memorandum "Our Enduring Duty to America's Service Members and Their Families" here.
