Remote personnel processing in the military departments

(a) Requirement for remote personnel processing (1) In general Each Secretary of a military department shall implement capabilities to enable the remote in-processing and out-processing of covered personnel. (2) Elements The capabilities required under paragraph (1) shall, at a minimum— (A) permit covered personnel to complete in-processing and out-processing requirements remotely, including through the use of electronic forms and digital signatures; (B) reduce the number of hours required for in-processing and out-processing associated with a permanent change of station, separation, or retirement; and (C) provide covered personnel and commanders with timely electronic access to records related to such processing. (b) Briefings Not later than September 30, 2027, and annually thereafter through September 30, 2030, each Secretary of a military department shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a briefing on the implementation of subsection (a), including— (1) a description of capabilities implemented; (2) metrics on time required for in-processing and out-processing before and after implementation; (3) any challenges or limitations in execution; and (4) plans, if any, to expand or improve such capabilities. (c) Definitions In this subsection: (1) Covered personnel The term covered personnel includes members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the military department. (2) In-processing The term in-processing means the administrative activities that covered personnel undertake pursuant to a permanent change of station. (3) Out-processing The term out-processing means the administrative activities that covered personnel undertake pursuant to a permanent change of station, separation from the Armed Forces, or end of employment with the military department.