Yoho Votes to Fully Fund Our Military

Washington, D.C.  – In support of our nation’s military and national defense, Congressman Ted S. Yoho (FL-03) voted in favor of H.R. 5293 - Fiscal Year 2017 Defense Appropriations. Within the defense appropriations bill, Congressman Yoho inserted language that will prevent the United States from providing or transferring any Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems (MANPADS) to rebels fighting in Syria

Congressman Yoho released the following statement:

“Today Congress voted to fully fund our men and women in uniform and provide them with the much needed pay raise they deserve. Fully funding the Department of Defense is critical for our military to meet the ever increasing challenges America faces in a dangerous world. This will also address our readiness shortfalls, which hinder the operations and maintenance of our ships, aircraft, ground vehicles and other vital equipment.

“I am pleased my language to prevent the transfer of MANPADS to Syria was included in today’s bill. It is very important to keep these sophisticated weapons out of the hands of the wrong people. I also tried to insert language into this bill which would prevent the placement of combat troops in Libya without an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF). We need to have an updated AUMF that restores congressional oversight for U.S. military engagements. Unfortunately, that language was not added to the final bill. 

“Congress’ primary Constitutional duty is to provide for the common defense of our great nation. As a member of Congress, I take this responsibility very seriously. To protect and defend the freedoms and liberties we all enjoy, we must have a well-trained, sophisticated, and capable fighting force. Today’s vote ensures that America has the millitary we need to provide a strong national defense and to meet the current and evolving threats we face around the world.”