S-2600 : Still Just a Bill

The bill S. 2600, introduced by Mr. Rounds on July 31, 2025, mandates a Defense Science Board study to determine the most effective organizational structure within the Department of Defense for managing digital solutions engineering activities. The study will include:

• An assessment of current digital solutions engineering organizations.
• An evaluation of potential organizational structures, such as new defense agencies or consolidation within existing offices.
• Recommendations for an optimal structure, considering cost-effectiveness, industry practices, governance, and coordination.
• Transition recommendations with timelines, personnel changes, resource needs, and risk mitigation.

The Defense Science Board must submit its final report to the Secretary of Defense by February 1, 2027. The Secretary then has 30 days to submit the report, along with any comments, to the Congressional defense committees. "Digital solutions engineering" is defined as the creation and maintenance of AI systems, software, data platforms, and other digital technologies for the Department of Defense.