Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON D.C. Congressman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) today released the following statement after voting in support of which passed in the House of Representatives by a vote of .
Congressman Smith: Congress has a sacred responsibility to provide for our nations defense. We must never forget the sacrifices those who serve make to protect our freedom. This bill ensures our men and women in uniform have the resources they need."
The funding in the bill is consistent with the House Budget Resolution that balances the federal budget and ensures troop readiness through rigorous training adequate facilities and well-maintained equipment. It also supports a 2.3 percent pay raise for the military and includes a new retirement system for future military service members. The system would allow new service members to contribute to a portable 401(k)-style retirement plan with matching contributions from the government of up to 5 percent of basic pay. The bill would also support the transition of troops from active-duty into veteran status by directing DoD and the VA to work in cooperation on pain management and other health issues of the 21st century. The bill would also prohibit another round of base closings known as BRAC.
Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON D.C. Congressman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) today released the following statement after voting in support of which passed in the House of Representatives by a vote of .
Congressman Smith: Congress has a sacred responsibility to provide for our nations defense. We must never forget the sacrifices those who serve make to protect our freedom. This bill ensures our men and women in uniform have the resources they need."
The funding in the bill is consistent with the House Budget Resolution that balances the federal budget and ensures troop readiness through rigorous training adequate facilities and well-maintained equipment. It also supports a 2.3 percent pay raise for the military and includes a new retirement system for future military service members. The system would allow new service members to contribute to a portable 401(k)-style retirement plan with matching contributions from the government of up to 5 percent of basic pay. The bill would also support the transition of troops from active-duty into veteran status by directing DoD and the VA to work in cooperation on pain management and other health issues of the 21st century. The bill would also prohibit another round of base closings known as BRAC.
