Stefanik Cosponsors Legislation Supporting Female Service Members

Statement

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is an original cosponsor of the Body Armor Modernization for Females Act along with Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02). A companion bill is being introduced in the Senate by Senators Ernst, Duckworth, McSally, and Blumenthal.

Poorly fitting body armor and protective equipment is one more challenge to women serving in the Armed Forces, a rapidly growing demographic in our military. Improperly fitting body armor can cause additional discomfort and even injury. This bill would require a report to Congress on fielding the newest generation of personal protective equipment (PPE) to include a tracking system, as well as including a question on injuries incurred from ill-fitting or malfunctioning equipment in annual assessments.

"I am proud to be an original cosponsor to the Body Armor Modernization for Females Act and have the opportunity to work with a bipartisan team in both the House and the Senate on this important issue," said Congresswoman Stefanik. "As women take on more roles within the increasingly diverse Armed Forces, it is important that we equip service members of all shapes and sizes with properly fitting protective gear. This bill aims for every soldier to be outfitted with the right equipment so she can "train as she fights.' I'm proud to work with my colleagues to lean forward with the next steps of fielding the next generation of protective equipment."

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