Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) released the following statement after the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed the U.S. House.
“Funding our national defense is the most fundamental responsibility of our federal government. The National Defense Authorization Act cares for our men and women in uniform who keep America safe. During this time of global threats and uncertainty, it is Congress’ responsibility to make sure our national defense and military is fully funded and equipped. My Republican colleagues and I worked tirelessly to successfully remove many Democrat poison pills like “Red Flag” provisions that would infringe upon servicemembers Second Amendment rights. This crucial bill puts military readiness and robust national security first. I strongly support it.” – Congressman Dan Meuser
The National Defense Authorization Act Includes:
- ROBUST SUPPORT FOR DEFENSE: $768.2 billion, a 5% increase over the FY21 NDAA and a $25 billion boost over Democrats topline number
- PAY RAISE: 2.7% pay increase for servicemembers
- READINESS: Reverses Biden Administration cuts to national security by restoring funding for procurement, including putting the Navy back on track for 355 ships.
- NATIONAL GUARD: Provides $1.1 billion in new aircraft, equipment, and weapons for the National Guard.
- RUSSIA: Fully funds the European Deterrence Initiatives to support our allies against Russia and provides a 20% increase in Security Assistance for Ukraine.
- CHINA: Invests in equipment capable of operating in denied operating environments in China and support Taiwan against increasing Chinese aggression.
- AFGHANISTAN: Prohibits financial support for the Taliban and establishes an independent commission to review the war and disastrous withdrawal.
- COVID-19 ORIGINS: Requires DOD and DNI to assess the Chinese Communist Party’s involvement in the origins of COVID-19.
- VACCINE MANDATES: Prohibits dishonorable discharges for servicemembers opting-out of COVID-19 vaccination and requires DOD to consider natural immunity in setting medical standards for exemption.
- BORDER SECURITY: Continues funding for National Guard deployments to the border and reauthorizes counternarcotics capabilities.
Original source can be found here.
