A Pay Raise for U.S. Troops and a Commitment to Allies
WASHINGTON, DC – On Friday, the House pass the final bill that fully funds the Department of Defense, gives U.S. service members a pay raise, and ensures America lives up to our commitments to allies.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) provides our military with the training, equipment, and troop levels necessary to meet any threat and to keep America safe. Service members will get a 2.1% pay raise while funding for maintenance of military facilities is increased. Additionally, American air superiority will be bolstered with the acquisition of multiple strike fighter aircraft, helicopters, and transport planes.
The NDAA bill also implements reforms to the military health system and procurement procedures in an effort to increase efficiency and operate as responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.
The defense funding legislation also guarantees our commitment to allies facing the threat of terrorism and expansionist regimes. Multiple cooperative defense programs with Israel are funded above the President’s request while Iraqi Security Forces will continue to receive training to assist the United States and its allies in combatting ISIS. Additionally, $350 million is provided for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative in an effort to train and equip the Ukrainian military against the threat and posturing of Russia.
“We live in uncertain times, with the threat of terrorism, aggressive actions and posturing from Russia, and the Chinese increasing their presence in the Pacific,” said Congressman Bob Gibbs after voting in favor of NDAA. “Now is not the time to draw down our forces or shrink the Defense budget. This legislation addresses the needs of our military in terms of preparedness, facilities, and cooperation with allied nations. The safety and security of the American people is our top priority and I am proud to support legislation achieving that objective.”
The same measure passed the Senate earlier this week and now awaits a signature from the President.
More information on NDAA can be found here.
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