Clawson Supports Defense Authorization Bill to Improve Military Pay and Retirement Benefits

Press Release

The House passed a $612 billion defense authorization bill today by a margin of 270-156, which includes a pay increase for military personnel and an overhaul of the military retirement system.

The bill includes a host of military pay and benefits authorizations, and would allow the President to raise military pay. The overhaul of the military retirement system would replace the current 20-year, all-or-nothing model with a "blended" compensation system featuring a 401(k)-style plan with matching contributions from the government of up to 5% of basic pay. 83% of service members leave the military before the current 20-year mark to qualify for retirement. Military members will have the option of being grandfathered into the old system or choosing the new system; and the provision would not affect veterans who have already retired.

Following the vote, Congressman Curt Clawson (FL-19) made the following statement:

"Southwest Florida is blessed to have such an active military and veteran community that we are proud to serve. Following their service to their country, they continue to serve our community. Taking care of our military heroes, both past and present, is a paramount to my mission in Congress. We must see that they have their needs on the home front secured as they see that our needs on the front lines are secure."

Yesterday, Clawson supported the Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2015 to extend expiring health benefits to veterans across the nation through December of 2016.

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