A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to modify the organization and authorities of the Assistant Secretaries of Defense with duties relating to industrial base policy and homeland defense.

# Summary of S. 436: Defense Department Organization Bill **What the Bill Does** This bill would reorganize how the Department of Defense (DOD) is structured at a senior leadership level by modifying positions called Assistant Secretaries of Defense (ASDs)—high-ranking officials who advise the Secretary of Defense. Specifically, it would create two new positions established by law: one focused on strengthening U.S. defense manufacturing and partnerships with allied countries (including Taiwan), and another responsible for national security strategy and homeland defense planning.

The bill would also eliminate one existing position that currently handles homeland defense and affairs in the Western Hemisphere. **Who It Affects and Key Details** This bill primarily affects the internal organization of the Pentagon and the officials who work there. It doesn't directly impact the general public, but it could indirectly affect defense policy priorities and how the military approaches industrial production and homeland security. The changes reflect a congressional interest in prioritizing defense manufacturing capabilities and international defense partnerships as strategic concerns. **Current Status** The bill (S. 436) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.