The House of Representatives today passed the conference report to H.R. 2810, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018.  Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this legislation which fulfills Congress’ constitutional responsibility to provide for the common defense in addition to authorizing many important programs that support our military, including a pay increase and benefits to military members and their families.

“The overwhelmingly support of the conference report to the NDAA by the House of Representatives sends a strong signal of support to our troops,” said Simpson.  “It is imperative that our military has the necessary tools to protect us from ever-changing threats.”

The conference report also includes important Idaho priorities such as language that streamlines the conveyance of an unused Air Force-owned rail spur near the Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB) to the City of Mountain Home.  The city plans to leverage this rail for economic development to attract businesses to the city, leading to job growth for its residents and for military dependents.  Simpson was first to include conveyance language in the House version of the NDAA.

“I am thrilled that the conveyance language was included in the conference report, and I look forward to the economic opportunities that it will bring to the city of Mountain Home and Idaho,” said Simpson.  “Both city officials and base leaders are excited that it will not only be an impetus to bring new businesses and jobs to the city, but also improve quality of life for local residents and military families.”

The conference report also authorizes full funding for the A-10 Thunderbolt II to continue its operation. An A-10 squadron currently operates at Gowen Field in Boise, and is essential to the mission there.

Funding for new trainee barracks for the Idaho Army National Guard and a digital air ground range at the Orchard Combat Training Center, high priorities for the Army to improve Guard readiness, are also authorized in this bill.

This bill provides for a 2.4% pay raise for over 1.3 million active-duty and 810,000 Guard and Reserve troops.

The conference report to H.R. 2810 passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 356-70.