The Department of the Air Force has announced additional guidance for the implementation of several Secretary of War directives, according to a statement published August 31. The updates address medical shaving profile separations, CBRN mask fit validation requirements, chaplain evaluation and promotion reforms, and military equal opportunity reporting.
Under updated guidance for DAFI 36-3211, Military Separations, commanders will consider administrative separation for members who accumulate more than 12 months of medical shaving profiles within a 24-month period starting Feb. 1, 2026. This policy implements a memorandum regarding grooming standards for facial hair. Commanders may choose to initiate discharge processing or submit a retention package for members who maintain a shaving waiver for a combined 12 months in a 24-month period. Retention decisions will factor in performance, unit manning, specialized training, and the cost of replacement. Members with an approved religious accommodation for facial hair are not subject to these changes.
New CBRN defense requirements must be completed by Dec. 31, 2026, for every Airman and Guardian, including members of the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve. These requirements consist of the CBRN Defense Foundations Course, a web-based annual course, and an in-person mask validation or negative pressure check. Following the initial deadline, these will transition to annual requirements. These changes aim to reinforce skills critical for defense against CBRN threats and other hazardous mission sets requiring respiratory protection.
Chaplains will see reforms in how they are evaluated and promoted to align with SECWAR guidance from July 14. Evaluations will focus primarily on core religious ministry functions, including providing religious services, offering pastoral care, advising command on religion and morale, and executing religious support in operational environments. These assessments will be performed by a chaplain rater or a senior chaplain serving as a Chaplain Functional Examiner. These changes apply to second and first lieutenant evaluations closing out Oct. 31, 2026. Additionally, promotion boards will be presided over by a chaplain general officer and will prioritize ministry performance.
Updated guidance for DAFI 36-2710, the Equal Opportunity Program, will implement reforms regarding military equal opportunity and harassment. The new policy includes confidential reporting for prohibited discrimination and harassment and introduces alternative dispute resolution as an option for informal resolution. The updates also clarify that false complaints may constitute a violation of Article 107 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and update definitions for bullying, hazing, and harassment.
