assessments to evaluate the merits and benefits of activities conducted under the program with respect to the needs of the Department of Defense. (e) Authorities In carrying out the program, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, make use of the authorities under chapter 111 and sections 2601, 2605, and 2374a of this title, section 219 of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 ( Public Law 110–417