Bono Votes to Provide Key Funding for Troops

Press Release

Bono Votes to Provide Key Funding for Troops

In an effort to ensure that our armed forces have the critical funding they need, Congresswoman Mary Bono (CA-45) today voted in favor of the conference report for National Defense Authorization Act for FY2008 (H.R. 1585), which would authorize funding for national defense programs in FY 2008, including authorization for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The National Defense Authorization Act for FY2008 was passed today in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 370-49. The measure now heads to the President's desk for his signature.

"The brave men and women of the armed services and their families deserve our strong and continued support," said Bono. "From expanding health care services and personnel benefits to ensuring emergency preparedness, this bill addresses some of the most important needs of our military and our nation. I am proud to support this legislation that provides critical resources to our troops serving at home and abroad."

Key provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act of FY2008:

- Require routine reporting to include an assessment of the readiness of the National Guard to perform tasks required to support the National Response Plan for support to civil authorities, such as major disasters, including wildfires.
- Provide compensation and other personnel benefits for members of the armed forces including a 3.5% pay raise for all members of the armed forces in 2008.
- Expand TRICARE coverage for service members to include licensed or certified mental health counselors and their services.
- Establish a wounded warrior resource center to provide wounded warriors, their families, and primary physicians with a single point for health care assistance and for reporting difficulties with health care service.

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