SOFA Act

HR 3015, the SOFA Act, requires the U.S. military to reduce personnel stationed in foreign countries that lack specific legal protections for service members. Starting 180 days after enactment, the Defense Secretary must cut troop levels by 1% monthly in countries without binding agreements guaranteeing: (1) no pretrial detention for non-violent crimes, (2) immediate access to chosen lawyers, (3) language translation services, and (4) protection against self-incrimination or coerced confessions. This applies only to countries hosting at least 1,000 U.S. troops last year, with a national security waiver available for the Defense Secretary. The bill directly affects military personnel stationed in qualifying countries and aims to ensure legal safeguards before maintaining forces there.