The bill authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish a pilot program designed to provide monthly food coupons to junior enlisted members of the Armed Forces for use at commissaries. This initiative aims to address the challenges military members and their families, particularly unaccompanied junior enlisted personnel, face in accessing affordable and healthy food options. The program will be conducted at two military installations, chosen based on criteria such as a high number of unaccompanied junior enlisted members and commissaries offering nutritious options. Coupons are exclusively for food purchases, excluding alcohol and tobacco, and are intended to supplement , not replace, existing food assistance. After its one-year duration, the Secretary must report to Congress on the program's effectiveness in reducing food insecurity and increasing access to nutritious food for these members.
Commissary Healthy Options and servicemember Welfare (CHOW) Act
USA119th CongressS-2772| Senate
| Updated: 9/11/2025
The bill authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish a pilot program designed to provide monthly food coupons to junior enlisted members of the Armed Forces for use at commissaries. This initiative aims to address the challenges military members and their families, particularly unaccompanied junior enlisted personnel, face in accessing affordable and healthy food options. The program will be conducted at two military installations, chosen based on criteria such as a high number of unaccompanied junior enlisted members and commissaries offering nutritious options. Coupons are exclusively for food purchases, excluding alcohol and tobacco, and are intended to supplement , not replace, existing food assistance. After its one-year duration, the Secretary must report to Congress on the program's effectiveness in reducing food insecurity and increasing access to nutritious food for these members.