Congressman Joe Morelle Passes Legislation to Support and Strengthen National Defense

Press Release

Yesterday, Congressman Joe Morelle voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022. Congressman Morelle played a unique role in crafting this critical funding measure as a member of the House Armed Services Committee.

"I am working hard to ensure servicemembers and their families receive the protections and benefits they deserve while protecting and strengthening our national defense--and that is what we have delivered with this year's NDAA," said Congressman Joe Morelle. "I am proud to have helped craft this important legislation that makes historic investments in support of our courageous servicemembers and their families, including childcare and mental health resources, as well as investments in the technology necessary to keep civilians safe now and in the future."

Highlights of the $768 billion legislation include:

-Wage increases and additional benefits, such as parental leave and expanded childcare, for our service members.
-A Basic Housing Allowance (BAH) increase for military families.
-Resources to prevent military suicide and expand mental health services.
-Support for Afghan SIV and Evacuee Efforts
-Support for women servicemembers, including improved coverage of contraceptives and post-partum care.
-Reforms to the Uniform Code of Military Justice to combat sexual assault in the military.
-Initiatives to expand diversity within the military.
-Establishes an Employment Fellowship Program for Military Spouses

"This year's NDAA fulfills our nation's responsibility to provide the tools our military needs to address national security threats while modernizing policies that will better support our servicemembers," said Congressman Joe Morelle. "I will continue to support and advance legislation that seeks to uplift America's servicemembers and help them succeed."

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