Quigley Statement on National Defense Authorization Act

Statement

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement after the House passed the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act:

"Today, the House passed a National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that invests in a strong, smart national security, cuts unnecessary spending where needed, maintains a tough stance on Russia, and prioritizes continued collaboration with our allies.

"Additionally, the NDAA emphatically rejected a culture of endless warfare. I proudly voted to end the outdated 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) in Iraq and to support the repeal of the 2001 AUMF, which has been used by Presidents to wage war in countries that go far beyond Congress' intended purpose in the aftermath of 9/11. These measures send an important message that we cannot -- and will not -- accept going to war on a whim.

"One critical aspect of supporting our troops is ensuring they receive the best possible medical care when they return home. That is why I wrote and introduced an amendment to create a $2.5 million pilot program for military medical providers to receive specialized orthopedic surgical training from civilian professionals. It's clear that direct training based on state-of-the-art orthopedic techniques for injuries to the knee, shoulder, and other extremities has become an increasingly important readiness issue, and I'm proud that my amendment was included in the final NDAA.

"Additionally, Congress showed our dedication to military members and their families by passing a 3.1 percent pay raise for our servicemembers. We also passed provisions to improve housing and drinking water at military bases and to promote diversity and inclusion in the military.

"I am committed to containing to do my part to ensure that we as a nation engage in responsible national defense that rejects pointless conflict and promotes American values."

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