Senate Passes Legislation to Strengthen National Defense with Provisions Championed by Senator Collins

Statement

By an overwhelming bipartisan majority of 85-10, the Senate passed legislation today that will strengthen our national defense and support our men and women in uniform. U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, voted in favor of the bill. The Senate and the House of Representatives must now reconcile their two versions of the bill before being sent to the President's desk to be signed into law.

The fiscal year (FY) 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorizes $707.7 billion for national defense so that our military has the resources it needs to confront threats around the globe. The funding will increase training, accelerate the modernization efforts, bolster readiness, and support members of the armed forces.

"This legislation provides essential resources to our military so that it can continue to meet ongoing and emerging threats to our nation and keep the American people secure. Moreover, it ensures that members of our armed forces have the training and equipment they need to carry out their missions as safely and effectively as possible," said Senator Collins. "I am pleased that this bill also supports our men and women in uniform through the largest pay increase in nearly a decade, and it includes provisions that are important to the thousands of Mainers who work in the defense industry. The overwhelming support this legislation received is indicative of the bipartisan commitment to strengthening our national security."

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