Rep. Smith Votes for a Strong National Defense, Pay Raise for Troops

WASHINGTON – Congressman Lamar Smith (R-TX) released the following statement after the House passed the conference report to the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Article 1 Section VIII of the Constitution states the Congress is charged with providing for the common defense of the United States. Each year an updated bill is voted on to authorize what’s needed for a national defense best suited to protect and defend our country.

Rep. Smith: “Today the House took action on a bill that allows for the highest pay raise for our troops in six years.

"While serving our country, service members need the ability to train for and execute their missions without being limited by an arbitrary lack of resources. In addition to increasing personnel, this bill provides the means to improve readiness and maintenance so troops can do their jobs safely and effectively.

"We also voted to strengthen military health care – ensuring no TRICARE increases for those currently serving and requiring full disclosure for any changes for those that join the military in the future.

"The bill keeps Guantanamo Bay open and prohibits transferring Guantanamo detainees to American soil. It also improves our ability to fight ISIS through counterterrorism and prioritizes strong cybersecurity defense.”

###