South Central Reporter

U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Champaign) is pointing to what he sees as a string of GOP victories in the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“We must never allow our military to be defunded, which is what voting no on the NDAA would have done,” Davis said in a news release. “President Biden and some Democrats in Congress attempted to use this year’s NDAA to cut defense spending and reshape our military according to their progressive worldview. Fortunately, the House rejected their misguided attempts and passed a strong defense budget.”

With the legislation ultimately passing the House by a 363-70 vote, Davis points to provisions that call for a $25 billion increase for defense overall spending and greater funding for nuclear weapons programs as some of the biggest highlights. Lawmakers contend the measures are needed to offset rising threats from China and Russia in the ongoing race over military technology.

The bill also contains a 2.7% pay increase for troops and placing authority over sexual assault crimes in the hands of independent military prosecutors.

With the Biden administration having ended the 20-year war in Afghanistan, the bill also includes provisions mandating that the administration provide more reports to lawmakers regarding conditions there and the U.S.’ ability to conduct counterterrorism operations in the region.

“I look forward to the NDAA passing the Senate and being signed into law so we can protect our national security and maintain our position as the globe’s preeminent military power,” Davis added.