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This month, the House and the Senate continue to work their way through the annual defense policy bill, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA has a version passed by each chamber before their respective differences are settled by a conference committee. The House passed their version of the NDAA on May 24 while the Senate is scheduled to begin debate on the bill during the week of June 11.
The NDAA provides the Department of Defense (DoD) with funding authorizations, reporting requirements, and key policy initiatives. The House authorized $708.1 billion in total defense spending and contains provisions beneficial to the National Guard, such as:
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Authorization to provide additional Black Hawk helicopters to the Army National Guard
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Authorization to address Army National Guard Apache helicopter shortfalls
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Authorization to provide C-130H engine and propeller upgrades, as well as Eagle Active Warning and Survivability System (EPAWSS) kits, for the Air National Guard
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A 2.6 percent military personnel pay raise
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Review of the promotion process for National Guard officers
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Authorization to fund the National Guard Counterdrug program
On May 23, the Senate Armed Services Committee forwarded their version of the NDAA to the full Senate for consideration. Throughout this process, and until a final bill is signed into law by the President, NGAUS legislative staff will continue to engage with Congressional staff integral to both the armed services committees and to the individual Members of Congress who sit on those committees. We will also continue to engage with key Capitol Hill personnel to advocate for NGAUS priorities and monitor the status of the NDAA as it continues to move through the Senate.
