As we prepare to commemorate on Memorial Day the countless men and women who have given their lives in defense of our country, Congressman Lipinski helped pass the National Defense Authorization Act to strengthen America’s military and national security. This bill, H.R. 5136, will enhance counterterrorism efforts, combat nuclear proliferation, support missile defense, purchase critical new equipment, and increase pay and benefits for our troops.

As a staunch supporter of Buy American laws, Congressman Lipinski succeeded in adding an amendment to the defense bill to ensure that American companies have a fighting chance to receive Department of Defense contracts. He also voted against repealing the 1993 law known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” heeding the advice of our nation’s top military commanders, who had asked that any legislative action be delayed until completion of a Pentagon study of the impact of repeal on military readiness and effectiveness.

“In voting against repeal of the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, I heeded the views stated this week by Commandant of the Marine Corps General James T. Conway, Army Chief of Staff General George W. Casey Jr., Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Gary Roughead, and Air Force Chief of Staff General Norton A. Schwartz,” Congressman Lipinski said. “As the chiefs of the branches of our military, each spoke of his strong support for allowing the comprehensive review of the implications of repealing the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy to be completed before any legislative action is taken. The review process established by Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates takes a systematic approach to evaluating ‘any impacts to military readiness, military effectiveness and unit cohesion, recruiting/retention, and family readiness that may result from repeal of the law.’ Before voting on this issue, I believe Congress ought to have had the benefit of considering the report resulting from that review, which is due on Dec. 1. It is notable that General Conway, General Casey, Admiral Roughead, and General Schwartz were united in indicating that to act before the review is completed would send an unwelcome signal to our men and women in uniform regarding the importance of their input. Indeed, an ‘essential’ and ‘critical aspect’ of the review, according to Secretary Gates, is the gathering of the views of ‘a range of age, rank, and warfare communities.’ In voting yesterday on this important question, I believe Congress acted hastily, ignored the clear and considered advice of our top military commanders, and showed a regrettable disregard for the opinions of the men and women who risk their lives for our nation on a daily basis. The American people have made it clear: Congress should listen before it acts.”

Congressman Lipinski’s amendment to the Defense Authorization requires the DOD to solicit bids from domestic suppliers when procuring articles, materials, or supplies for use outside the United States. In 2008, the DOD spent over $8 billion on these purchases from foreign entities.

“My amendment represents a victory for American workers, American manufacturers, and our national security,” Congressman Lipinski said. “America should not have to rely on foreign companies to supply our men and women in uniform. Nor should we ever send taxpayer dollars overseas when they could be helping to create desperately needed jobs here at home. By requiring the Department of Defense to solicit bids from U.S. companies when purchasing items for use outside our borders, my amendment helps level the playing field for American workers. As we fight to put Americans back to work, it’s critical that taxpayer dollars ‘Buy American.’”

To read more about the amendment, click here.