Bill Summary
The resolution expresses support for "Military Sexual Trauma Awareness Day," highlighting the serious issue of military sexual trauma (MST), which includes sexual assault and harassment in the military. It acknowledges that MST affects both men and women, with significant psychological and physical consequences for survivors, including increased risks of PTSD, depression, and suicide.
The resolution emphasizes the unique challenges faced by marginalized and minority group survivors, such as barriers to care and feelings of being unsupported. It calls for reforms to ensure respectful treatment for survivors, recognizing that MST not only impacts individuals but also affects their families and military readiness.
The resolution stresses the need for the Armed Forces to enhance prevention efforts through training, promote a zero-tolerance culture, and improve reporting and support mechanisms. It encourages the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to expand access to MST-related services and emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in handling MST cases.
In summary, the resolution aims to raise awareness about MST, support survivors, break the stigma surrounding the issue, and work towards eradicating MST within the military.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the resolution expressing support for "Military Sexual Trauma Awareness Day" could affect people:
1. **Increased Awareness and Support for Survivors**: By designating a specific day for military sexual trauma awareness, the resolution can help raise public consciousness about MST, making it easier for survivors to come forward and seek help. This increased visibility may lead to more support services being developed and improved, ultimately benefiting survivors who have felt isolated or stigmatized.
2. **Improved Access to Resources and Services**: The resolution encourages the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to expand access to MST-related services. This could lead to more comprehensive mental health care, counseling, and support programs specifically tailored for MST survivors. As a result, veterans may experience better recovery outcomes and improved overall well-being.
3. **Cultural Shift within the Military**: The resolution calls for a culture of zero tolerance towards MST and advocates for the implementation of training programs. If these initiatives are successfully enacted, it could foster a safer and more supportive environment for all service members. This cultural shift can help reduce the incidence of MST, promote accountability within the military, and enhance the overall effectiveness and readiness of armed forces personnel.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 770 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. RES. 770
Expressing support for ``Military Sexual Trauma Awareness Day''.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
September 26, 2025
Ms. Houlahan (for herself, Mr. Bacon, Ms. Brownley, Ms. Sherrill, Mrs.
Kim, Ms. Pingree, Ms. Budzinski, Ms. Balint, and Ms. Goodlander)
submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee
on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in
each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the
jurisdiction of the committee concerned
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
Expressing support for ``Military Sexual Trauma Awareness Day''.
Whereas military sexual trauma (hereinafter, ``MST'') encompasses sexual assault
or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that occurs during military
service;
Whereas MST affects both women and men in the Armed Forces, with research
indicating that approximately 1 in 3 women and 1 in 50 men experience
MST during service as a member, whether active duty, Reserve, or
National Guard;
Whereas MST is an experience rather than a diagnosis or mental health condition,
and can result in significant and long-lasting impacts on survivors,
including heightened risks of post-traumatic stress disorder
(hereinafter, ``PTSD''), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and
physical health issues, with an increased risk of suicide;
Whereas MST survivors who identify as members of marginalized and minority
groups may face additional stressors and barriers to engaging in MST-
related care which may compound the trauma and hinder their access to
necessary support;
Whereas MST survivors often encounter feelings of being unsupported,
disrespected, or retraumatized when seeking care, which can exacerbate
their psychological distress and elevate the risk of suicide,
highlighting the urgent need for reforms to ensure they receive
compassionate and respectful treatment;
Whereas MST not only affects the individual but also impacts their families,
friends, and overall military readiness, as the trauma can strain
relationships and affect the survivor's ability to perform effectively
within the military setting;
Whereas there is a critical need to address the stigma associated with MST and
to provide comprehensive support that considers the needs of survivors,
their families, and the broader military community;
Whereas there is an urgent need for the Armed Forces to intensify efforts to
prevent MST by implementing comprehensive training programs, promoting a
culture of zero tolerance, and strengthening reporting and support
mechanisms to protect all members and ensure a safer military
environment; and
Whereas September 25, 2025, is observed as ``Military Sexual Trauma Awareness
Day'': Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) expresses support for ``Military Sexual Trauma
Awareness Day'';
(2) affirms its commitment to supporting military sexual
trauma survivors and acknowledges the importance of providing
them with the highest quality care and support;
(3) acknowledges the profound impact of military sexual
trauma, commits to breaking the stigma surrounding it, and
reaffirms its dedication to improving support systems for
military sexual trauma survivors and their families;
(4) encourages the Department of Defense and Department of
Veterans Affairs to continue efforts to expand access to
military sexual trauma-related services, ensuring these
services are well-publicized and accessible to all veterans;
(5) promotes transparency and accountability in the
Department of Defense's and the Department of Veterans Affairs'
handling of military sexual trauma cases to build trust and
ensure that survivors receive the support they need without
fear of retaliation or discrimination; and
(6) underscores its commitment to working with the
Department of Defense to address root problems and causes of
military sexual trauma with the goal of eradicating it.
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