Simpson Supports National Defense Authorization Act

Bill provides pay raises for troops and modernized capabilities to counter foreign aggression

Washington, D.C. – Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today voted in favor of H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023. This annual legislation authorizes important programs in the Department of Defense (DoD) including pay increases and benefits to military members and their families.

“We must pass the NDAA annually to make sure our troops have the resources they need to maintain a strategic edge over our adversaries,” said Simpson. “I am proud to support this bill that rebuilds the military and provides critical equipment and technology that will ensure military readiness.”

The FY 2023 NDAA fulfills Congress’ constitutional duty to provide for the common defense by rejecting the Biden Administration’s proposed cuts to defense programs and includes provisions vital to national security.

Highlights of the bill include:

• A 4.6% pay increase for servicemembers,
• Funds for military construction and military family housing at home and abroad,
• Funding to counter Chinese and Russian aggression, and,
• Expanded mental health services and suicide prevention programs for servicemembers.

Republicans in the House of Representatives also fought successfully to exclude gun confiscation and abortion-related provisions, and to include a 4.4% overall increase to the defense budget, in line with the Trump administration’s previous goal.

“Both Republicans and Democrats came together to support the FY 2023 NDAA, and the world will be better and safer for it,” continued Simpson. “I am proud to lend my support to our military men and women who fight so valiantly to protect our way of life.” 

The FY 2023 NDAA passed in the House of Representatives on July 14, 2022 with a bipartisan vote of 329-101. The bill will now be conferenced with a Senate version before becoming law.

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