S-2040 : Still Just a Bill

The "Pentagon Management Oversight Act of 2023" (S.2040) aims to improve the Department of Defense's efficiency by:

• Reinstating the Chief Management Officer (CMO): This position, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, will oversee the Department's business operations and shared services.
• Responsibilities of the CMO: The CMO will advise the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Defense on business operations policies, manage shared business services, and minimize duplication of efforts.
• Budget Authority: Starting in fiscal year 2025, the CMO will review the proposed budgets of Defense Agencies and Department of Defense Field Activities for enterprise business operations and report to Congress on their efficiency and effectiveness.
• Management of Defense Business Systems: Transfers authority to manage and oversee defense business systems to the CMO
• Guidance and Charter: Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide clear guidance and a charter outlining the CMO's authorities and responsibilities.
• Report on Lapse in Oversight: Requires a report on the effects of abolishing the CMO position and the failure to reassign its responsibilities for defense business systems.

In short, the bill seeks to re-establish a dedicated role to improve management and efficiency within the Department of Defense.