Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON D.C. Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22) acted to provide critical funding and support to our military by voting in support of HOlR. 4909 the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill authorizes vital funding for the Department of Defense to provide our service men and women the resources they need to defend our nation. This bill passed the House by a vote of 277-147.
We must improve military readiness by reversing troop cuts and correcting funding shortfalls that put our men and women in uniform at a heightened level of risk" Rep. Olson said. Our military has a more dangerous job today in an increasingly dangerous world. They deserve a government that provides the necessary resources that facilitate their ability to defend our freedom. This critical bill provides our troops with pay raises better healthcare options and invests in a 21st Century military. It also provides support for our allies in Europe and the Middle East aiding in the fight against radical Islamic extremists. I urge the Senate to act quickly and get this bill to the presidents desk."
FY 2017 NDAA - Highlights
- Includes a 2.1 pay increase for our men and women in uniform.
- Reforms the acquisition system by making it more cost-efficient while streamlining the process of getting technology and resources needed to our troops
- Prohibits the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay Cuba to the United States and limits transfers to foreign countries.
- Updates the Uniform Code of Military Justice to prevent sexual assault provide support for victims and prosecute those who commit these heinous crimes.
- Boosts base funding by $18 billion more than the presidents request.
- Simplifies TRICARE options to better meet the healthcare needs of service members.
- Invests $592 million to address war reserve shortfalls in critical munitions
- Increases the presidents request for funds to train and equip Iraqi security forces by $50 million.
- Directs resources to key priorities: 16 F/A 18-F Super Hornets 48 F-35A JSF 900 Javelin missiles Navy Cruiser modernization facilities restoration and additional unfunded requirements.
- Prioritizes the readiness of the Cyber Mission Forces with an increase of $900 million for cyber operations.
- Increases funding for the European Reassurance Initiative to address Russian aggression.
