H.R. 8769: Military Chaplains Modernization Act of 2026

This bill would update and clarify the rules for military chaplains across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force.

What the bill changes

• It more clearly defines what chaplains do and what their responsibilities are within the military.
• It strengthens protections for chaplains’ ability to practice and express their religion and to follow their conscience.
• It prohibits coercion or retaliation against chaplains for religious beliefs, religious speech, or other protected conduct.
• It clarifies which communications between chaplains and service members are private and protected by confidentiality.
• It updates how religious organizations endorse chaplains and defines terms used in that process.
• It elevates chaplain leadership roles within the services, including higher-level leadership positions.

Military discipline and enforcement

• The bill defines certain violations, including “censorship” of chaplains, in more detail.
• It makes some violations subject to punishment under the military justice system.
• It directs the Department of Defense and the President to write regulations to carry out the new rules.
• It also makes related changes to existing law so the new provisions fit into the military code and personnel system.

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