U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) released the following statement after voting in support of the House Amendment to S. 1605, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022.

“Our nation is blessed with the greatest Armed Forces in the world, and it is absolutely imperative that our men and women in uniform are equipped with the tools, training, and resources they need to defend Americans at home and abroad. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 includes a pay raise for these heroes, as well as support for our military families.

“As our nation faces 21st century threats, this legislation will invest in innovation, bolster our cybersecurity, and modernize our ability to combat growing threats from the Chinese Communist Party, Russia, and other adversaries. Following the Biden Administration’s shameful withdrawal from Afghanistan, the NDAA also provides funding to conduct counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and prohibits the U.S. Department of Defense from providing any financial support to the Taliban.

“Importantly, this NDAA protects our servicemembers’ Constitutional rights, including the vital Second Amendment, and will prepare our Armed Forces to take on any challenge. This is an important step toward providing for our national defense, and I urge the Senate to pass this bill and send it to President Biden’s desk as soon as possible.” 

BACKGROUND

As a strong supporter of our Armed Forces and military families, Congresswoman Walorski supports commonsense investments in our national defense. The NDAA for FY2022 includes key benefits for American servicemembers and military families and provisions to strengthen our national security, including:

  • Provides a nearly 3 percent pay raise for more than 2.1 million uniformed servicemembers
  • Protects servicemembers’ Second Amendment rights
  • Authorizes critical investments in submarines and battle force ships, aircraft, and other equipment to maintain our combat advantage
  • Provides funding for counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and prohibits the Department of Defense from providing any financial support to the Taliban
  • Strengthens and secures the supply chain and supports the defense industrial base
  • Modernizes our military technology and capabilities, including hypersonic weapons and biotechnologies
  • Advances the Department of Defense’s cybersecurity strategy 

Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the Ranking Member of the House Ethics Committee.