HOUSE SET TO APPROVE DEFENSE APPROPRIATONS BILL THIS EVENING

Washington, Jun 20, 2005 - "This measure provides our troops with the equipment, supplies, and training they need to complete their difficult missions," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). "I am especially pleased for the support of my colleagues for the funding I sought for the important security programs conducted in my district."

The House this evening is expected to approve H.R. 2863, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act. The measure provides $409 billion for defense programs, including fully funding the 3.1-percent pay increase for military personnel. H.R. 2863 includes $363.7 billion for the operations of the Defense Department and $45.3 billion for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"This measure includes funding I sought for important defense-related programs here in Florida," added Stearns. "It provides $2.5 billion for advanced research carried out by the University of Florida on broadband electronics for use in electronic surveillance; $1.9 million for continuing work on Traumatic Brain Injury research conducted by Banyan Biomarkers in cooperation with the University of Florida; $1.4 million for ballistic missile defense research conducted by Vicus Technologies of Summerfield, FL; and $500,000 to enable the Office of Naval Research to develop advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology through INVIVO Corporation in Gainesville for the rapid detection, diagnosis, and treatment of breast and prostate tumors."