Pearce Votes to Support Our Armed Forces and National Security

Press Release

The House of Representatives voted today to fund critical national defense programs through H.R. 3219, Make America Secure Appropriations Act, 2018. This appropriations package, also known as a "minibus," included the Department of Defense, Military Construction -- Department of Veteran's Affairs, Energy and Water Development, and Legislative Branch funding bills.

"I remain committed to providing our armed forces with the tools and resources they need to complete their critical missions and protect the security of our nation. We cannot expect our nation's military to defend against ever evolving threats without the ability to train, maintain equipment, and invest in new technologies. The only way to accomplish these goals is to modernize and reform the way our military operates. Today's national security package tackles the readiness crisis of our military head on, while honoring the commitment we've made to our service members and their families," stated Rep. Pearce.

Rep. Pearce continued to state, "National security also lies within energy advancement and development. New Mexico plays a vital role in the research, development, production, and disposal of nuclear resources that are fundamental to our nation's security strategy. With strong funding to support these operations, New Mexico will continue to be a national leader in protecting the United States.

The funding package included a non-debatable provision that provides $1.6 billion to fund the construction of a physical barrier along the southern border. Rep. Pearce voted against this procedural motion earlier today.

"Today's legislation was not perfect. The construction of a physical wall on the southern border will never be the solution. The only way to secure the border is through the use of modern technology and a comprehensive strategy for patrolling the border. I will continue to educate and work with my colleagues to make critical border security decisions that our nation needs, however, this bill does too much for those that protect our freedoms on a daily basis to vote against."

Background - July 2017 "Minibus" includes funding for:

Energy & Water Development

$37.6 billion total funding
Strengthens national security
Moves U.S. toward energy independence by investing in Department of Energy programs that reduce reliance on foreign oil
Keeps energy costs down
Increases funding for Department of Energy's nuclear weapons programs
Includes measures to improve public safety
Creates jobs
Strengthens national economy
Provides $6.16 billion funding for Army Corps of Engineers
Prioritizes research projects and studies for flood and storm damage reduction
Expedites the Trump Administration's commitment to repealing "Waters of the United States"
Defense

Total budget is $658.1 billion
Promotes readiness and focuses on rebuilding our military
Includes $73.9 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations funding
Ensures troops have the training and equipment to maintain global military superiority
Provides 2.4% pay raise -- largest military pay increase in 8 years
Does not provide funding for BRAC
Provides for MQ-9, F-16, and C-130 mods
Ensures military is on cutting edge of defense technology
Invests $84.3 billion in research and development
Invests $149.9 billion in equipment and weapons procurement
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon & VA)

Total budget is $88.8 billion
Increases investment in rural airfields for Guard and Reserve use
Ft. Bliss hospital installment for $251 million
Increases Energy Grid security
Supports medical care for 7 million VA patients
Increases funding for construction of critical military infrastructure by 25%
Supports all NDAA projects for NM
Creates the Office of Accountability to review claims and oversee whistleblower issues
Inter-state controlled substance monitoring program continuation
Legislative Branch

Puts security of Congressional Members, their staff, and people they serve first
Boosts funding for Capitol Police
Maintains functions of the House of Representatives

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