House Approves Legislation to Strengthen our Military and Support our Troops

Statement

House Approves Legislation to Strengthen our Military and Support our Troops

House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement after passage of the H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009.

"The National Defense Authorization Act prioritizes the needs of our brave men and women serving in our nation's Armed Services. This bill will give our troops the tools and resources they need to defend our freedoms and advance democracy.

"H.R. 5658 holds the Bush Administration and Iraqi government more accountable by requiring Iraqis to shoulder more of the burden to rebuild and secure their nation. Furthermore, this comprehensive authorization package provides immediate assistance to our armed services personnel and their families by prohibiting fee increases in the military's TRICARE health services program.

"We enhance our national security capabilities by taking care of the Americans who defend our freedoms and protect our liberties. This authorization bill moves our nation's defense policies in a New Direction by rewarding the strong and steadfast commitment of our troops by bestowing them with more resources and making health care services more affordable and accessible for all military families."

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