Changes to the National Defense Authorization Act Affecting Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

By Capt. Christian Hewitt, Special Victim Counsel 

The National Defense Authorization Act has been instrumental in driving changes within the military to better represent victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. While specific changes may vary from year to year, here are some common reforms and initiatives that have been included in recent NDAA bills:

Enhanced Victim Support Services: The NDAA often includes provisions to strengthen victim support services within the military. This may involve increasing funding for victim advocacy programs, expanding access to counseling and mental health services for victims, and improving the availability of resources such as safe housing options.

Improved Reporting and Investigation Procedures: NDAA provisions frequently aim to enhance the military's response to domestic violence and sexual assault by improving reporting and investigation procedures. This may include implementing measures to encourage reporting, ensuring thorough and impartial investigations of allegations, and protecting victims from retaliation.

Increased Accountability for Offenders: The NDAA typically includes provisions to hold perpetrators of domestic violence and sexual assault accountable for their actions. This may involve strengthening penalties for offenders, improving oversight of disciplinary proceedings, and ensuring that appropriate action is taken in cases of misconduct.

Prevention and Education Programs: NDAA legislation often allocates funding for prevention and education programs aimed at reducing the incidence of domestic violence and sexual assault within the military. These programs may include training initiatives to educate service members about healthy relationships, consent, and bystander intervention.

Civilian Oversight and Independent Review: Some NDAA provisions may call for increased civilian oversight and independent review of the military's handling of domestic violence and sexual assault cases. This can help ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to best practices in addressing these sensitive issues.

Overall, the NDAA serves as a critical tool for enacting legislative changes to improve the military's response to domestic violence and sexual assault, enhance support services for victims, and promote a culture of respect and accountability within the Armed Forces.

If you have questions on this topic, call the Fort Bliss Special Victims’ Counsel Program Office at (915) 568-5641.