Defense
I have taken several votes in support of robust funding for programs that provide our current service members with the care and protection they deserve. Specifically, I have consistently supported a well-deserved 2.3% pay raise for our military men and women in addition to full and robust funding for troop housing. I am proud to support the brave men and women serving in our Armed Forces and will continue to be their staunch advocate while here in the Congress.
Additionally, during consideration of the Fiscal Year 2016 NDAA, the House unanimously passed my bipartisan amendment to cut off funds to any so-called ‘friendly rebels’ in Iraq and Syria who make a mockery of our good intentions by misusing American arms and resources. This legislation adds a tough new layer of accountability to the $1.3 billion fund the Pentagon uses to train and equip rebels believed to be supporting the U.S. It has become clear that we have no real friends in these conflicts where we have ended up on every side, and where the weapons we send to various groups more often than not end up being used against us.
During consideration of the Fiscal Year 2016 Defense Appropriations bill I offered an amendment to stop funding the Iraq Train and Equip program and apply $715 million to deficit reduction. Additionally, teaming up with my Republican colleague, Rep. Curt Clawson of Florida, we offered an amendment to defund the Syria Train and Equip Program of $600 million and apply that money to reduce the deficit.
While both bipartisan amendments were defeated, it's important to note that they received about a third of their votes from Republicans – more than we ever would have received in past years. Moreover, both the Chairman and the Ranking Democratic Member of the Defense Appropriations subcommittee praised our intent – and were clear that they share many of our deep concerns. Other colleagues expressed similar feelings privately. We will keep pressing efforts to stop U.S. weapons and training for Iraq, Syria and the rest of the Middle East until we have the majority we need.
Click here for more information on my work to support our nation's veterans.
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Endless Wars of Choice Are Bankrupting Our Nation - The New Congress Must Put a Stop to Them
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It's Time to Slow Down the Race and Limit the Congressional Campaign Season
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[WASHINGTON D.C.] The U.S. House of Representatives today passed Congressman Rick Nolan’s bipartisan amendment adding $6 million for lung cancer research programs at the Department of Defense. The measure restores research funding levels from $14 million back to the original $20 million figure Congress approved in 2009.
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Dear Friend,
U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today secured $6 million for the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) to research unmanned ground vehicles.
“Unmanned combat ground vehicles can be sent into battle ahead of our soldiers – and in certain cases, instead of our soldiers,” Nolan said. “Developing and advancing this technology can save American lives.”