WASHINGTON, DC -- On Thursday, the U.S. House of Representatives sent the fiscal year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to the President's desk to be signed into law. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) voted for the bill, securing key victories for our military and national defense in the year ahead, including the largest pay raise in 20 years for U.S. Servicemembers.
The bill authorizes investments in military readiness, a stronger defense, more support for our troops and their families, and adds strength against aggression from China and other adversaries. It also supports the work of the Kentucky National Guard and paves the way for future usage of the Blue Grass Army Depot.
"Our military must remain focused on the tasks at hand and prepared for mounting aggression from foreign enemies. The United States must sustain our posture of military excellence with innovative hypersonic technology, intelligence and warfighters who stand ready to defend our homeland," said Congressman Rogers. "This bill takes care of our military servicemembers and provides them with the tools and training that they need to be successful, from improving military housing and childcare, to reducing barriers to healthcare and improving resources for suicide prevention."
This NDAA takes the necessary steps to save American taxpayers billions by strategically cutting inefficient programs, obsolete weapons systems, and burdensome red tape. It also refocuses our defense spending on national security and away from advancing misaligned political agendas, and bans teaching and promotion of Critical Race Theory.
The NDAA increases authorized funding for key military initiatives left unfunded or underfunded in the Biden budget, including the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, an essential tool in combatting Chinese aggression. It also protects the U.S. Navy by prohibiting the premature decommissioning of critical ships.
The legislation also provides a process for reinstatement for servicemembers who were discharged for refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine and ensures that no future adverse action is taken on those who have not received the COVID-19 vaccine.
The NDAA has passed through the House and Senate and now moves to the President's desk to be signed into law.
For more information about Congressman Rogers' work in Washington and at home in Kentucky, visit halrogers.house.gov and follow him on social media.
