Senate Passes Defense Bill

Press Release –  The Senate passed a defense policy bill Monday that U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., said would authorize significant resources for the U.S. military, strengthening the country’s national security.

Enzi voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018, which determines America’s defense policy and authorizes spending for the military.

“This legislation is a win for our troops and for Wyoming,” Enzi said. “The world is a dangerous place and it is important that we as a nation are prepared. This pivotal legislation commits the US to building a strong military that is ready to respond to the range of threats facing our nation.”

This national defense bill would authorize a pay raise for U.S. troops and construction funds for improvements at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne. It also calls for C-130H aircraft modernization and supports the UH-1N helicopter replacement program, which provides security for the missile fields. In addition, this bill would authorize federal financial reimbursement to states for forest fire containment under certain conditions.

The Senate passed this defense authorization legislation by a vote of 89-8. The House passed an NDAA bill 344-81 in July. Before becoming law, the Senate-passed NDAA must be reconciled with the similar legislation passed in the House and be signed by the president.