Sponsors
Want the plain-English version? I'll explain what this bill does.
This is not an official government website.
Copyright © 2026 PLEJ LC. All rights reserved.
Adds new section 358 to title 37 establishing a military fitness bonus pay program (eligibility tied to members entitled to basic pay under 37 U.S.C. 204; $1,000 for a perfect score, $500 for scores 90–99; recurring availability per required physical fitness test; annual reporting requirements to congressional defense committees).
Amends 26 U.S.C. 134(b) by adding a new paragraph to include bonuses awarded under 37 U.S.C. 358 within the definition of "qualified military benefit" (thereby excluding such bonuses from gross income).
This bill would pay cash bonuses to active-duty service members who score very high on required fitness tests. It offers $1,000 for a perfect score and $500 for a score of 90% or higher, and it applies each time a required test is taken. The bonus would not be taxed as income. The aim is to reward strong fitness, boost readiness, and help cut injuries and health costs in the military .
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Introduced July 17, 2025 by William R. Timmons · Last progress July 17, 2025