ANCHOR Act Mandates 45-Day Notice, Detailed Special Education Plans for Military Family Moves

The “ANCHOR for Military Families Act” (Assuring Navigation of Compact Help for Ongoing Relocation) is essentially a major upgrade to the instruction manual the military gives families when they get a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) order. It’s all about making sure military families don’t have to scramble for critical information when they’re moving every few years—a huge deal for anyone juggling work, kids, and a cross-country move.

The 45-Day Lifeline: No More Last-Minute Scrambles

Under this bill, the Secretary of Defense must now ensure that service members and their families receive a comprehensive package of relocation information no later than 45 days before the move takes effect. This is a big change from the current system, where information delivery can be inconsistent or too close to the move date to be useful. Think of it as a mandatory, detailed checklist delivered well before the packing boxes arrive. The required package covers essential resources like housing assistance (on-base and off-base rental protections), financial planning, spouse employment support, and crucial mental health and well-being services available during the transition.

Schooling and Special Needs: Protecting Academic Continuity

One of the biggest pain points for military families is schooling, especially for kids who need extra support. This legislation specifically mandates that the relocation information must cover educational systems, school enrollment procedures, and, critically, resources for dependent children with disabilities. This includes clear guidance on how to transfer Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and coordinate with the Exceptional Family Member Program. If you’re a parent with a child in special education, this provision means you won’t have to fight to figure out the rules in a new state; the military is required to hand you the playbook upfront, including details on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.

Holding the Pentagon Accountable

The bill isn't just about handing out pamphlets; it includes a mechanism for oversight. The Secretary of Defense is required to brief the House and Senate Armed Services Committees on the implementation of these changes—first one year after enactment, and then annually for three years. These briefings must include an assessment of how aware military families are of the programs and any recommendations for improvement. This ensures Congress is actively checking if the new system is actually working for the families it’s designed to help. While this creates an administrative lift for the Department of Defense, it’s a necessary step to ensure the new standards don’t just exist on paper.