Lawmakers tout NDAA House passage

A pair of lawmakers are espousing the benefits of the House of Representatives’ passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY21.

Reps. Mac Thornberry (R-TX) and Adam Smith (D-WA), chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, offered statements regarding the action.

“For sixty years, the House has voted to put America’s national security and our military first,” Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-TX) said. “This is not a Republican or a Democrat bill, it is an American bill. This legislation invests in our military families and military readiness, ensuring that our service members will be protected at home and abroad. This bill also provides necessary resources and equipment for the troops stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base and funds military production at companies like Bell and Pantex.”

Thornberry said the nation’s first obligation should always be to the men and women in uniform and their families.

Smith said the House has proven its constitutional obligation to provide for the common defense is more important than politics.

“I am incredibly proud of the work that the House Armed Services Committee was able to accomplish this year, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and strongly believe the FY21 NDAA is an excellent piece of legislation that delivers for our service members and their families,” he said. “Thanks to the work of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, the bill we passed supports our troops, reflects our values and provides for a strong national defense.”