House passes defense bill to raise troop pay and overhaul weapons purchases

"The annual National Defense Authorization Act typically gains bipartisan backing, and the White House has signaled "strong support" for the must-pass legislation, saying it is in line with Trump's national security agenda. Yet tucked into the over-3,000-page bill are several measures that push back against the Department of Defense, including a demand for more information on boat strikes in the Caribbean and support for allies in Europe, such as Ukraine."

"Overall, the sweeping bill calls for a 3.8% pay raise for many military members as well as housing and facility improvements on military bases. It also strikes a compromise between the political parties - cutting climate and diversity efforts in line with Trump's agenda, while also boosting congressional oversight of the Pentagon and repealing several old war authorizations. Still, hard-line conservatives said they were frustrated that the bill does not do more to cut U.S. commitments overseas."

The House approved a $900 billion National Defense Authorization Act that funds military programs, updates weapons-buying procedures, and raises troop pay. The bill provides a 3.8% pay raise for many service members and allocates funds for housing and base facility improvements. The legislation prioritizes faster Pentagon acquisitions and increases congressional oversight while repealing several old war authorizations. It reduces climate and diversity initiatives consistent with the presidential agenda and includes measures addressing boat strikes in the Caribbean and support for European allies, including Ukraine. Some conservatives criticized the measure for not substantially cutting overseas commitments.

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