As the United States continues to prosecute the war against terrorism, it is essential that our armed forces are appropriately equipped.  The conference report provides vital support for homeland counterterrorism programs, increased weapons capability, and military research and development. Additionally, it recognizes the importance of our men and women in uniform by providing a 4.1% pay raise and authorizing a force increase of 40,000 people.  

I am particularly pleased that the conference agreement includes language prohibiting the military from requiring or strongly encouraging U.S. servicewomen in Saudi Arabia to wear the abaya – a long black garment required for women under Islamic law.  I have been working with the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Hostettler, and the gentlewoman from New Mexico, Mrs. Wilson, to remove this unnecessary and degrading mandate.  The Defense Authorization conference report ends this double standard and guarantees that our servicewomen are not treated as second-class citizens.

Additionally, the legislation breaks new ground by establishing a concurrent receipt program.  For too long, our disabled military retirees have witnessed their military retirement pay reduced by the amount they receive in disability compensation.  I have fought against this injustice since arriving in Congress and am pleased that this legislation will provide greater assistance to many of those who have made sacrifices for our nation.

The National Defense Authorization Act is a great achievement and an appropriate recognition of Chairman Bob Stump’s dedicated leadership.  I appreciate having had the opportunity to serve with Chairman Stump on the House Armed Services Committee and commend him for his deft handling of the complex matters arising from the international war on terrorism.  Together with Ranking Member Ike Skelton, Chairman Stump helped foster a collegial and thoughtful atmosphere in the committee, thus ensuring that Congress’s approach to the war on terrorism was bipartisan and well considered.  I wish him well in the future and thank him again for his leadership.

As the House prepares to recess for the year, I am disappointed that we were not able to claim greater progress on appropriations bills and other important legislation.  Nevertheless, passage of the Defense Authorization Act, coupled with the final agreement reached on the Department of Homeland Security, demonstrates Congress’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the American people, and I am proud of the work we have accomplished in these fields.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.