H.R.648 - Strengthening our Servicemembers with Milk Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.648, the "Strengthening our Servicemembers with Milk Act," directs the Secretary of Defense to provide fluid or powdered milk to members of the Armed Forces at dining facilities on military installations. The bill specifies a variety of milk options, including flavored, organic, lactose-free, and different fat content levels. It also prohibits the purchase of milk from entities owned or controlled by foreign adversaries.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would ensure that all members of the Armed Forces have access to milk at dining facilities. This could lead to improved nutrition and morale among service members. The prohibition on purchasing milk from foreign adversaries aims to support domestic producers and protect national security.
Potential Benefits
- Improved nutrition for service members through increased milk consumption.
- Support for domestic milk producers by prioritizing US-sourced milk.
- Enhanced morale among service members due to increased availability of desired food items.
- Potential for better health outcomes related to calcium and vitamin D intake.
- Alignment with dietary recommendations for a balanced diet.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in costs for the Department of Defense to procure and store a variety of milk options.
- Possible logistical challenges in ensuring availability of all specified milk types at all dining facilities.
- Risk of waste if certain milk varieties are not consumed in sufficient quantities.
- Limited impact on overall national security or defense capabilities.
- Potential administrative burden on the Secretary of Defense to implement and oversee the program.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's provision for providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare (Preamble). Congress has the power to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8), which implicitly includes providing for the sustenance of military personnel. There are no apparent constitutional conflicts.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).