Staying informed about the latest updates to the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) is crucial for all Department of Defense personnel and civilians involved in official travel. These regulations are frequently updated to reflect changes in policy and ensure efficient and compliant travel procedures. Here’s a breakdown of some key changes to the JTR, focusing on updates relevant to 2024 and beyond.
Important Updates to Mileage Rates and Relocation Allowances
One significant area of updates involves mileage rates. In late 2022, revisions were made to the Mileage Rates Frequently Asked Questions to align with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) standard mileage rates for 2023. This ensures that reimbursements for personal vehicle use are consistent with current IRS guidelines. For specific details, refer to the 2023 Mileage Rates + FAQs document, effective from December 30, 2022.
Relocation allowances have also seen adjustments. Notably, the expiration of Federal Travel Regulations (FTR) Bulletin 22-07 on December 31, 2022, led to the removal of certain temporary waivers related to relocation travel and renewal agreement travel that were in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. This change, detailed in CTD for CAP 06-23(I), “Expiration of FTR Bulletin 22-07”, became effective on January 24, 2023.
Changes in Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses (TQSE)
Substantial changes have been implemented regarding Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses (TQSE). The JTR now reflects updates from Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) Bulletin 25-05, impacting relocation Miscellaneous Expense Allowance (MEA) rates. These updated flat rates, effective February 12, 2025, are outlined in CTD for CAP 11-25(I), Update Flat Payment Miscellaneous Expense Allowance (MEA) Rates.
Furthermore, significant shifts have occurred in TQSE reimbursement methods. The introduction of TQSE Lodgings Plus (LP) as the preferred method and the removal of TQSE Actual Expense (AE) are key changes. These updates, driven by new regulations from the General Services Administration (GSA), aim to streamline the reimbursement process and reduce administrative burdens. For more information, refer to CTD for CAP 35-24(S), Redefining Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses (TQSE) Allowances and CTD for CAP 39-24(R), Removal of Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses Actual Expense (TQSE (AE)), effective July 1, 2024 and February 1, 2025, respectively.
Clarifications on TQSE and House Hunting Trips
Adding to the TQSE updates, clarifications have been made regarding the authorization of TQSE in conjunction with house hunting trips. The JTR now aligns with Federal Travel Regulation § 302–6.30, mandating that Authorizing Officials reduce the total TQSE days by the number of house hunting trip days authorized. This clarification, detailed in CTD for CAP 46-24(E), Clarification when Authorizing Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses and House Hunting Trip, is effective from September 1, 2024.
Other Notable Changes
Other changes include updates related to shipment of alternative fueled privately-owned vehicles (POVs) and circuitous routes to new permanent duty stations (PDS), as outlined in CTD for CAP 22-24(E), Shipment of Alternative Fueled POV or Circuitous Route to New PDS, effective June 1, 2024. Additionally, rules for unaccompanied baggage for dependent student travel have been specified to mirror service member rules, as detailed in CTD for CAP 31-21(R) Unaccompanied Baggage for Dependent Student Travel.
Staying Up-to-Date
These updates to the Joint Travel Regulations are essential for ensuring compliance and efficient travel processes within the Department of Defense. For the most current and comprehensive information, always refer to the official Joint Travel Regulations website and the DTMO’s Policy & Regulations RSS feed for the latest changes and announcements. Staying informed is key to navigating DoD travel successfully in 2024 and beyond.
