House Approves Defense Funding Bill
La Verne and the City of Industry Research and Development Projects Also Supported

October 10, 2002

WASHINGTON - Pointing to the new challenges confronting America’s armed forces, Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, voted today to approve defense funding for the 2003 fiscal year. The Department of Defense Appropriations Act Conference Report, H.R. 5010, provides a total of $355.1 billion in new discretionary spending authority for defense and intelligence activities in FY ‘03. H.R. 5010 passed by a strong bipartisan vote of 409-14.

"This bill sends a strong message to terrorists and the nations that harbor them -- America is committed to defending freedom no matter the cost," said Dreier. "With significant funding increases for intelligence operations and a renewed commitment to readying our armed forces for the 21st century, this bill gives our military the resources needed to protect America. In the aftermath of September 11th, we have learned much about what we can do to better safeguard our country and this bill reflects that new awareness."

H.R. 5010 provides $355.1 billion in new discretionary spending authority for the Department of Defense, an increase of $37.5 billion over FY’02. The bill approves $3.3 billion for transport aircraft to ensure strategic mobility in the global war on terrorism and includes the largest one-year increase in intelligence spending in over two decades. In addition, a 4.1 percent pay raise for military personnel is fully funded under this bill in addition to support for 1.4 million active duty and 864,558 guard and reserve personnel. Also included in the bill is $11.3 million in funds that suppose defense technology research and development projects underway in private labs in La Verne and the City of Industry.

Dreier commended Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense Jerry Lewis (R-Redlands) and Ranking Member John Murtha (D-PA) for crafting a bill that meets America’s defense needs and supports the global war on terrorism. "H.R. 5010 is key to successfully defeating terrorism and ensuring our national security," said Dreier.