Hoyer Statement on House Passage of the Fiscal Year 2019 NDAA

Statement

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after the House passed the Fiscal Year 2019 National Defense Authorization Act:

"I am pleased that Democrats and Republicans were able to come together, as we historically have, to pass a bipartisan defense authorization bill. As our service-members defend our nation and its interests overseas, we must keep faith with them and ensure they have all the tools necessary to carry out their missions as safely and effectively as possible. I want to thank Ranking Member Adam Smith and his Democratic colleagues on the Armed Services Committee for their tireless efforts to keep this bill bipartisan and prevent the worst Republican amendments from being added in committee or on the Floor.

"While I am supporting this bill today, I remain concerned about certain provisions. These include harmful environmental riders as well as cuts to non-uniformed Pentagon personnel who perform their jobs with skill and professionalism, often working alongside uniformed service members, to contribute to our national defense. This Administration and its Republican allies in Congress seem determined to denigrate the service of civilian federal employees and treat them as non-essential. However, our country would be at a loss without their hard work and dedication. I will continue to advocate for those who serve in defense of our country both in and out of uniform, and I hope these cuts will be removed when the House and Senate resolve a final version to send to the President to sign."

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