To direct the Secretary of Defense to establish blast safety officer positions in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force.

# HR 5188 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** HR 5188 would require the U.S. Department of Defense to create dedicated "blast safety officer" positions across all five military branches—the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force. These officers would presumably be responsible for monitoring, preventing, and managing risks related to blast injuries and exposure to explosive forces that military personnel face during training and combat operations. **Who It Affects** The bill would directly impact the military branches and their personnel. Military service members, particularly those in combat roles or training environments involving explosives, could benefit from enhanced blast safety oversight.

The bill also affects the Department of Defense, which would need to establish and staff these new positions. **Current Status** As of now, HR 5188 remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) in the 119th Congress. No further action has been taken, so it has not become law.