“Our nation stands for so much – freedom, democracy, and opportunity – yet it’s only through the protection provided by our brave men and women in uniform that this remains possible.”

WASHINGTON, DC – House Republican Conference Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) issued the following statement today after the House passed H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016, which fully funds our troops with the resources and support they need to defend our country abroad. 

“The sacrifices our military men and women make every day are what allow American families at home to feel safe and secure. Yet as we watch dangers around the world evolve – from on-the-ground threats to cybersecurity breaches – our troops must be able to respond quickly and efficiently. Today I voted to make sure that our armed forces have the support, funding, and resources they need to answer America’s call to freedom. This bill will make our military more agile by reforming military programs, eliminating outdated regulations, and more efficiently allocating our funds. American troops will now be ready to answer 21st century threats like ISIL, cybersecurity, and an encroaching Russia.

“And for the veterans who have served, this bill will empower them with better quality care. This is an important step forward in making sure all of our service members – past and present – receive the best treatment available.  I applaud Chairman Mac Thornberry’s (R-TX) unwavering commitment to the men and women who so valiantly defend this country. Our nation stands for so much – freedom, democracy, and opportunity – yet it’s only through the protection provided by our brave men and women in uniform that this remains possible.”