WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after the House passed the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2016, with his support by a bipartisan vote of 270-156:
Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after the House passed the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2016, with his support by a bipartisan vote of 270-156:
“Our Armed Forces continue to risk their lives to protect this nation and confront serious threats like ISIS, al Qaeda and the Taliban. This fiscally responsible, bipartisan legislation reforms the DOD acquisition process, reduces bureaucracy, provides a much deserved pay increase for our troops and ensures our men and women in uniform have the equipment they need to protect this nation.
“I will continue to advocate for a defense budget that balances our commitment to our troops, provides for a strong defense, and provides assurance to taxpayers that precious defense dollars are being spent on valuable initiatives. I call on President Obama to sign this commonsense legislation into law and drop his veto threat. Our troops don’t deserve to be treated as pawns in his political games.”
Background Information (Courtesy of the House Whip):
The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 authorizes the necessary funding for the Department of Defense so our service men and women have the tools and resources they need to defend our nation. The annual defense authorization fulfills Congress’ Constitutional responsibility to "provide for the common Defense.” On May 15, 2015, the House passed H.R. 1735 by a vote of 269-151. The Senate passed S. 1376 on June 18, 2015 by a vote of 71-25.
Funding levels are consistent with the House Budget and are equal to the level requested in the president’s budget at $611.9 billion.
$515 billion for national defense.
$89.2 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO).
$38.3 billion of OCO funds are specifically authorized for base requirements, including Airlift Operations, Training Support, Force Readiness, and Operations Support.
The Conference Agreement includes reforms to the acquisition system that improve accountability, simplify the chain of command, and streamline the bureaucracy.
Provides a retirement plan to 83% of service men and women currently not eligible through a Thrift Savings Plan.
Supports a 20% strategic reduction to headquarters’ budgets and personnel.
Directs resources to key priorities: Additional 12 F/A 18-F Super Hornets, A-10, Javelin, rotorcraft modernization for the Army National Guard, Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense, and additional unfunded requirements.
Ensures that post commanders can permit members of the Armed Forces to carry firearms at DOD installations, reserve centers, and recruiting centers.
Improves the Special Victims program and expands sexual assault prevention.
Requires DOD to submit a strategy to counter threats posed by Iran.
Authorizes funds to train and equip forces combating ISIS
Prohibits the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba to the United States and limits transfers to foreign countries.
The bill includes a 2.3% military pay raise for FY16.
