Senate Passes Defense Bill that Cuts Wasteful Spending

Press Release

U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., voted today with the majority (71-25) to pass the

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) out of the Senate. Enzi said the bill, which specifies the budget for the military, would make strategic reforms to help strengthen our military, cut wasteful spending and certify America's nuclear mission as a top priority for the Air Force.

"Along with providing support for those in the Air Force working with our ICBM's, this is a smart bill that cuts $10 billion in excessive and wasteful spending and redirects it to help fund critical military capabilities that directly support our troops," Enzi said.

The bill includes an amendment introduced by Enzi that would create a Small Business Ombudsman to help protect small businesses that apply for contracts with the Department of Defense from unfair bidding practices. The ombudsman would assist small businesses in cases where procurement contracts have been altered, modified or otherwise changed in ways that might disadvantage or preclude small businesses from competing in the contracting process.

"Defense Department contracts are a great opportunity for Wyoming's small businesses, but unfortunately these businesses aren't always treated fairly during the procurement process," said Enzi. "Small businesses that play by the rules shouldn't have to worry that they will lose the bid because of questionable practices, such as changing the bidding requirements at the last moment. By creating an official position to address complaints, this amendment will provide support to protect against unfair bureaucratic practices."

The House passed the NDAA bill last month. The differences in the bill will have to be worked out in a conference committee before it is sent to President Barack Obama, who has threatened to veto the bill.

In a related vote today, Democrats in the Senate voted to block the Defense Appropriation bill (50-45) because Republicans would not agree to spend more money on domestic programs. Enzi said this is irresponsible.

"Remember, our own military leaders have warned us that if our unsustainable debt continues to grow unchecked, our nation will be hobbled as it tries to fund programs that are critical to our military and diplomacy," said Enzi. "Yet, some of my colleagues believe deficits don't matter and want to keep spending more than we have."

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