Overview
- The CBO called its estimate uncertain because the Defense Department has not explained how it will implement the executive order.
- A minimal or modest rollout centered on the Office of the Secretary of Defense could cost a few million to about $10 million, with many expenses absorbed within existing budgets.
- A broad, rapid rebranding across defense-wide agencies could total up to $125 million, covering work such as updating signage, websites, letterhead and ceremonial items.
- A statutory renaming passed by Congress could reach hundreds of millions of dollars, and the department’s legal name remains the Department of Defense.
- The assessment followed a request from Sens. Jeff Merkley and Chuck Schumer, while Republican bills to formally rename the department have not advanced.