Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson joined the bipartisan effort to pass the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2008 (H.R. 1585) today. The final vote for the legislation was 397-27.
 
“Nothing is more important than providing funding for National Defense, especially in a time of war,” Simpson said. “We all know that we owe our freedom and way of life to the brave men and women who serve in the armed forces. This bill provides much needed funding for increasing military salary, new equipment, protective armor, and training to ensure their safety.”
 
H.R. 1585 continues efforts to support America’s brave men and women of the United States military. Specifically, it authorizes $504 billion in budget authority for the Department of Defense (DoD) and the national security programs of the Department of Energy. It also authorizes $142 billion in supplemental funding to support current operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere in the Global War on Terrorism.
 
“Because of the insurgents desire and capability to use roadside bombs in Iraq, this bill includes $4.1 billion for state-of-the-art Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles,” Simpson said. “This legislation includes important provisions to help protect those troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan while taking care of returning soldiers and their families.”
 
Other provisions within the bill include:

• increases of 13,000 Army and 9,000 Marine Corps active duty personnel to sustain our required missions
• 3.5% pay raise for all members of the armed forces
• $1 billion for National Guard equipment.