Senator Roberts Supports Military Pay Increase; Votes to Transfer Reconstruction Costs on to Iraq

Press Release

Senator Roberts Supports Military Pay Increase; Votes to Transfer Reconstruction Costs on to Iraq

Measures Included in Department of Defense Authorization Bill

U.S. Senator Pat Roberts late last night voted in favor of the Department of Defense Authorization Bill authorizing pay increases for men and women in uniform among other provisions critical to the warfighter. The Senate approved the bill with a vote of 88-8.

"Our hard working servicemembers and their families deserve this pay increase for the sacrifices they have made for our national security," Senator Roberts said. "It's the right thing to do."

The bill authorizes an across-the-board pay increase for all uniformed service members of 3.9 percent, an increase over the President's request of 3.5 percent. It also rejects the President's request for an increase in TRICARE fees.

The legislation adds authority for 7,000 more soldiers, 5,000 more Marines, and nearly 3,400 more Army National Guard and Army Reserve personnel.

"I am pleased the Congress has acted to increase the size of our all volunteer military to reduce the strain on deployed men and women in uniform and their families here at home, while increasing our effectiveness abroad," Roberts added.

The bill shifts more of the costs of reconstruction onto Iraq and bans spending on major reconstruction projects.

The House approved its version of the Defense Authorization bill, H.R. 5658, on May 22, 2008, by a vote of 384-23. The bill now goes to a conference committee to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions.

Senator Roberts, a former Marine, is an outspoken advocate for men and women in uniform and their families.

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