Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) released the following statement after voting in support of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
“Overall, this defense legislation is a significant step forward in strengthening military readiness,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “We need to refocus our policy as well as our practices to ensure our men and women serving in the military have the tools, equipment, and training necessary to complete their mission and return home safely. I am glad to have multiple amendments added to this vital legislation to enhance and improve our national security.”
This year’s House version of the NDAA included three amendments from Congressman Huizenga.
Requires a study by the Secretary of Defense on alternative vessel design for improved operations and shock impact mitigation on special operations personnel health and fatigue. This amendment provides an opportunity to strengthen Michigan manufacturing and enhance the role Michigan’s 4th Congressional District can play in supporting our troops.
Expresses the sense of Congress that NATO member states should commit to providing, at a minimum, 2% of its GDP to defense. This bipartisan amendment is designed to strengthen NATO by getting our allies to pay their obligated share. The 2% threshold was pledged in 2014. As of 2022, only 7 of the 31 NATO member states met their obligation with the United States contributing over 3% of its GDP.
Requires a report to Congress on military activities of the Russian Federation and the People's Republic of China in the Arctic Region. Recently, the Artic has seen an uptick in activity from both the Russians and now the Chinese Communist Party. This amendment is designed to refocus the effort with our strategic partners and allies to prevent expansion of both China and Russia in the region.
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