Strengthening Relations in Military Communities Act of 2021

Strengthening Relations in Military Communities Act of 2021

This bill requires the Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity within the Department of Defense (DOD) to survey members of the Armed Forces and their family members who live in covered communities regarding relations between such individuals and their communities. Under the bill, covered community means a military installation and the area within 10 miles of the installation. DOD must report on the survey results every other year.

The bill requires DOD to designate 10 geographically diverse military installations for review in each survey and make the results of the survey reports publicly available on a DOD website.

Bill 117 hr 6211, also known as the Strengthening Relations in Military Communities Act of 2021, aims to improve the relationships between military installations and the surrounding communities. The bill recognizes the importance of fostering positive interactions between military personnel and civilians living near military bases.

The key provisions of the bill include:

1. Establishing a grant program to support initiatives that promote collaboration and understanding between military installations and local communities. This program will provide funding for projects that enhance communication, cultural exchange, and mutual support between military personnel and civilians. 2. Encouraging the development of partnerships between military installations and local governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations. These partnerships will work together to address common challenges, such as infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and economic growth. 3. Promoting educational programs that raise awareness about the contributions and sacrifices of military personnel. These programs will help civilians better understand the unique needs and experiences of service members and their families. 4. Enhancing access to mental health and support services for military personnel and their families. The bill recognizes the importance of providing resources to address the mental health challenges faced by service members, veterans, and their loved ones. Overall, the Strengthening Relations in Military Communities Act of 2021 seeks to strengthen the bonds between military installations and the communities they serve. By promoting collaboration, understanding, and support, the bill aims to create a more cohesive and resilient relationship between military personnel and civilians.