Shelby Announces Critical Funding for Mobile in Defense Appropriations Bill

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U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee and its Subcommittee on Defense, today announced full committee passage of the Fiscal Year 2019 Department of Defense Appropriations Act. The $675 billion funding measure allows for essential investments in our military and supports programs to protect national security interests. The committee approved the legislation by a vote of 30-1.

"This bill sustains U.S. force structure and improves military readiness. It also recommends investments in future technologies needed to defend our nation in an increasingly complex and competitive national security environment," said Senator Shelby. "Our military must maintain its technological superiority and this bill does that through important investments in basic research, hypersonics, directed energy, missile defense, cybersecurity, and our test and evaluation infrastructure."

Specifically, the measure contains funding for shipbuilding programs in South Alabama, supporting the area's continued growth, development, and ability to compete on a national stage.

"It is vital to ensure that the capabilities of our naval fleet are the very best. Mobile's shipbuilding industry plays a significant role in our nation's ability to execute successful naval operations. I am proud that our state remains a leader in serving our Navy, and I look forward to the full Senate's consideration of this bipartisan measure," Shelby continued.

The legislation includes the following provisions impacting Mobile's shipbuilding industry:

One additional Littoral Combat Ship (LCS)
One additional Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) ship
An additional $850 million in Advance Procurement for LPD and LHA amphibious ships

Further details on the legislation are provided here.

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