Corker Statement on National Defense Authorization Act

Statement

U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement today after voting to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

"The challenges our nation faces are vast, and it is critical that we provide our men and women in uniform the tools necessary to protect and defend U.S. interests at home and abroad," said Corker. "This authorization bill begins to rein in excessive and unnecessary spending and invests those savings in a way that will allow us to maintain a strong national defense at a time when U.S. leadership around the world matters more than ever."

Corker also commented on a provision included in response to the July 16, 2015, deadly attack on military installations in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The legislation would require the Secretary of Defense to establish a process by which the commanders of domestic military installations, reserve centers, recruiting centers, or other defense facilities may authorize a member of the Armed Forces who is assigned to the facility to carry an appropriate firearm on the installation if the commander determines it necessary as a personal- or force-protection measure.

"In July, our nation was heartbroken by the loss of five American heroes who were carrying out routine support roles at military installations in my hometown," added Corker. "As the threat level continues to rise here at home, it is critical we take steps to ensure the men and women who have answered the call of duty to defend our country are able to defend themselves. This legislation puts in place an important process by which commanders on the ground are given the power to determine the best way to protect those who serve."

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