Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released a statement regarding the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“With the growing threats facing our nation, it is vital that we support the men and women in uniform who defend our freedoms by providing them with the resources necessary to fulfill their missions at home and abroad. This year’s defense bill furthers my commitment to support our troops and keep America safe.

“This year’s defense bill improves our servicemembers' quality of life, bolsters our military readiness, strengthens recruitment and retention of our armed forces, and delivers for our military families. It also boosts compensation, authorizing 4.5% raises for servicemembers to keep pace with inflation and 19.5% pay raises for junior enlisted servicemembers to bring them up to a competitive and living wage. Finally, this bill invests in our military housing infrastructure nationwide to improve the living conditions our servicemembers and their families experience.

“Not only does the bill bolster our national security, but it brings over $55 million to Northeast Florida through Community Project Funding, including for the planning and design of a much-needed additional child development center at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, a waterfront emergency power solution at Naval Station Mayport, and an F35 Aircraft Engine Repair Facility at Fleet Readiness Center Southeast.

“If we want to keep America safe, we must provide for our military and their families. That is why I was proud to vote in favor of this year’s NDAA and hope to see it signed into law.”

Please find the bill summary here.