Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

Bacon Praises Passage of FY26 Defense Policy Bill

Washington – Yesterday, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Cyber, Information Technology and Innovation Subcommittee, voted with his House colleagues to support final passage of S.1071, the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill passed the House of Representatives with a bipartisan majority of 312 to 112, and is now headed to the Senate and then to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law. This essential annual legislation, which contains multiple sections authored by Rep. Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for the Armed Forces.

“My colleagues in the House have demonstrated that when we cooperate, we can pass bipartisan legislation that benefits our national security. Once again, we have maintained the trust of the American people by passing the annual defense authorization,” said Rep Bacon. “There are significant highlights in this bill for the 2^nd Congressional District of Nebraska, and the entire country. This year’s NDAA revolutionizes the way that the Pentagon purchases weapons systems for our warfighters while also taking care of our all-volunteer force and their families. I commend Chairman Rogers, Ranking Member Smith, my fellow Members of the Committee and Congress, and all the staff who worked tirelessly to bring this bill to the finish line.”

Highlights from the FY 2026 bill include:

• Authorizes over $900 billion for national defense with significant investments in the defense industrial base, munitions production, and critical technologies, including artificial intelligence, space, autonomous systems, and hypersonic weapons, as well as a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers
• Sets major reforms to the defense acquisition system to speed development and fielding of modern technologies while reducing bureaucracy
• Preserves U.S. force posture in Europe and authorizes additional security assistance to the Baltic Nations and Ukraine
• Fully funds modernization of the U.S strategic nuclear deterrent as well as scientific capabilities and nuclear command, control, and communications architectures
• Boosts compensation for our servicemembers, invests in barracks improvements, reforms on-base housing, and supports childcare for military families
• Protects senior military leaders from being dismissed or forced to resign without explanation
• Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide additional information and transparency to Congress on the counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific Ocean

In addition, this year’s NDAA contains numerous legislative proposals sponsored by Rep. Bacon, including: 

• Authorization of support to Ukraine and the Baltic Nations of Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia to counter Russian aggression
• Directs the Secretary of the Air Force to provide an acquisition and fielding strategy for the F-47 advanced fighter aircraft program
• Creates a program of record for a combined military-civilian medical surge capability
• Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network
• Directs significant security upgrades to DoD mobile telecommunications
• Directs the major defense acquisitions programs to prepare digital manufacturing transition plans for critical components
• Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Center for Strategic Deterrence and WMD Studies at the National Defense University
• Directs the Secretary of the Air Force to produce a study on the future of the Airborne Operations Center
• Authorizes $15 million for USSTRATCOM’s nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) rapid engineering architecture collaboration hub (REACH) initiative at Offutt AFB

The text of the NDAA and related documents can be found here. Watch Rep. Bacon’s remarks on the FY26 NDAA here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) released the following statement after the House passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by a vote of 312-112. This legislation is a bipartisan agreement between the House and Senate to enhance our national security by building a ready, capable, lethal fighting force to deter our adversaries and protect the United States.

Importantly, this NDAA includes multiple provisions authored by Congressman Huizenga that address China and Strategic Ports (H.R. 1701), NATO defense spending, and a historic overhauling and streamlining of the public diplomacy arm of the State Department (H.R. 5251). The legislation now heads to the Senate.

“Overall, this bipartisan agreement strengthens our national security, provides our troops with a well-deserved pay raise, and enhances our military readiness,” said Congressman Huizenga. “My bipartisan Strategic Ports Reporting Act allows the United States to not only evaluate the strategic investments by China, but more importantly counter China’s expansionist policies in the Western Hemisphere. This NATO provision strongly reinforces the American position that our European Allies meet their new spending commitments of 3.5% on defense and 1.5% on military infrastructure. Lastly, my bipartisan provisions to overhaul public diplomacy and strategic communication at the State Department will make the United States more effective at countering adversaries and promoting American Leadership.”

“This restructuring has been needed for years, and I am proud to have delivered these crucial reforms to enhance American Diplomacy and improve our ability to address threats to our national security,” continued Congressman Huizenga.  “By streamlining the public diplomacy structure at the State Department, it will align personnel, budgets, and regional teams across the globe under a single chain of command. This will help ensure messages are integrated, disciplined, and strategically directed.  Importantly, this overhaul also requires annual reports to Congress that include clear metrics, benchmarks, and adversary-response assessments which will enhance the ability of Congress to conduct oversight over the State Department and more effectively weigh in on matters of national security. Additionally, these reforms require and enforce results-based mana

gement across educational and cultural exchanges, aligning them with strategic priorities and foreign policy outcomes making the State Department as a whole more efficient and more effective.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) released the following statement after President Trump announced the restoration of attainable fuel standards.

The Biden Administration used fuel economy standards to implement a de facto EV mandate. This decision by the Biden Administration caused prices to rise for consumers and made it more expensive to make cars, trucks, SUVs, and automotive parts here in Michigan. By restoring common sense and setting more attainable fuel economy standards, President Trump is making the process of buying a car more affordable and strengthening jobs across Michigan’s auto sector. These actions are very similar to policies I have supported in Congress. When these actions are coupled with energy exploration and provisions such as my No Tax on Auto Loan Interest, it will drive down costs and make life more affordable for Southwest Michigan residents without federal subsidies that deepen our national debt.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

Huizenga Statement on $400 Million Investment for SMRs at Palisades

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

For Immediate Release                             Contact: Alayah Phipps 

December 11, 2025                                                    202-813-2793 

PRESS RELEASE 

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT STATEMENT ON WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE UNANIMOUS APPROVAL TO ADVANCE REAUTHORIZATION OF HOPE/HELP TRADE PREFERENCE PROGRAM FOR HAITI 

Washington, D.C.— Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after the House Committee on Ways and Means unanimously approved the reauthorization of the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act (HOPE Act) and the Haiti Economic Lift Program Act (HELP Act) which will now advance to the House Floor for a vote: 

“Today marks a significant victory for Haiti and for smart, strategic U.S. engagement in the Caribbean. The unanimous, bipartisan vote to advance the reauthorization of HOPE/HELP demonstrates that when it comes to supporting our neighbors and advancing our shared interests, Democrats and Republicans can still come together to do what’s right. 

“It was particularly meaningful to have Mr. Jean Bernard Henry, Counselor at the Embassy of Haiti, join us for today’s markup. His presence and gratitude remind us that this work has real consequences for real people—Haitian workers, families, and communities who depend on the economic opportunities these programs create. I am proud to lead the charge for HOPE/HELP’s reauthorization because this is the kind of work that matters: supporting our Caribbean neighbors and fostering prosperity throughout the region” said Congresswoman Plaskett. 

Haiti is experiencing a humanitarian, political, and economic crisis and needs both economic and political stability. The dire circumstances in Haiti require immediate action. The apparel sector is of incredible importance to Haiti’s economy and presently is the foundation for the country’s economic development. Given the cascading job losses and extreme security crisis that have displaced over 1.4 million Haitians and left half the country’s population experiencing life-threatening hunger, Haiti cannot afford delays in reauthorizing this vital program. 

The HOPE/HELP reauthorization extends the period during which imports of certain Haitian-manufactured textile and apparel, and other goods produced in Haiti are eligible for duty-free treatment, providing the long-term certainty that Haitian producers and workers need to build stronger, more resilient futures. 

“HOPE/HELP is a trade preference program that boosts development for our allies with strong bipartisan support, and no domestic opposition,” Congresswoman Plaskett continued. “Haiti is an ally, one of the few countries in the Hemisphere that still recognizes Taiwan, and U.S. support for Haiti’s apparel sector is mutually beneficial. Haitian apparel utilizes U.S. cotton and plays an essential role in shifting supply chains out of China and to the Western Hemisphere. 

“I continue to emphasize the great importance of U.S. trade engagement in the Caribbean region. The United States has a responsibility to support its Caribbean neighbors. This legislation creates the foundation for stronger bilateral economic ties, greater certainty for investors that these benefits will be there for Haiti over the long term, and the economic security that is needed for Haiti to rebuild from the ground up and emerge more prosperous and resilient. 

“Today’s committee vote is an important first step, but our work is not done. I urge my colleagues in the full House and Senate to act swiftly to ensure this critical program continues without interruption. Haiti’s workers and families are counting on us.” 

The legislation now moves to the full House of Representatives for consideration. If passed by the House and Senate, it will proceed to the President’s desk to be signed into law. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) today introduced the State Industrial Competitiveness Act, legislation that strengthens and enhances the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing, all while cutting emissions by providing manufacturers with needed resources and technical support to increase their overall efficiency.

Tonko’s bill draws from New York State’s successful Flexible Technical Assistance “Flex-tech” program and is intended to complement and expand upon the work of existing programs, such as DOE’s Industrial Assessment Centers. The legislation also requires that State Energy Agencies coordinate with existing programs that provide assistance to manufacturers.

“Supporting our domestic manufacturers serves our workers, industries, communities, and economy,” Congressman Tonko said. “I’m leading this legislation to deliver that strong support and bring cost-saving opportunities to our domestic manufacturers while addressing the challenges associated with our growing electricity demand. These vital investments will also play a significant role in increasing American competitiveness. I urge my colleagues to join me in advancing this legislation that secures good-paying jobs while reducing emissions and moving us on the path towards a cleaner future.”

David Terry, the President of the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), stated, “As we push to expand domestic manufacturing, we need to do all we can to help these businesses lower costs and increase competitiveness through energy efficiency technologies that optimize energy use.” Mr. Terry added, “Nearly every state is experiencing substantial increases in electricity demand, which requires actions on both the electricity demand and supply sides to keep costs down.  This legislation is a significant way to help move the nation’s expansion of manufacturing forward as rapidly as possible.”

Jennifer Layke, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, said: “Small and medium-sized manufacturers are the backbone of America’s economy—but rising energy costs threaten their competitiveness. It’s time to invest in proven solutions that lower costs and boost productivity. With a program to support manufacturers around the country in identifying and adopting energy-saving strategies, we can help them save money, create jobs, and build a stronger, more efficient industrial base.” 

Tonko’s legislation enables States and Indian Tribes to establish a Flex-Tech Energy Program that would provide grants to U.S. manufacturers to conduct energy studies and implement recommendations from those studies.

Bill text can be found HERE.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brett Guthrie (2nd District Kentucky)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which advanced out of a conference committee between members of the House and Senate.

“I was proud to vote in favor of this NDAA, which secures a much-needed shift in America’s military posture. This legislation authorizes over $900 billion in funding towards programs to revitalize our military industrial capacity and put our servicemembers first,” said Congressman Guthrie. “The world is a safer place when America has a strong military, plain and simple. This historic NDAA will ensure that our military remains the greatest fighting force on the face of the Earth and serves as a deterrent to keep our adversaries at bay.”

Background:

The FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act authorizes $900.6 billion for national defense discretionary programs.

This bill fulfills House Republicans’ and President Trump’s policies by investing in our military industrial capabilities, securing all servicemembers a well-deserved pay raise, making meaningful strides to secure our southern border, and more.

Specifically, this bill:

• Supports the Trump Administration’s 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers.
• Reauthorizes and expands military bonuses and special pay.
• Codifies all or parts of 15 Executive Orders issued by President Trump pertaining to national security.
• Authorizes $1.5 billion for military construction and family housing projects that ensure readiness for our soldiers and families. 
• Expands access to health care for military families by authorizing $335 million to renovate existing military hospitals and construct new medical facilities.
• Authorizes over $38 billion for the development, procurement, or modification of military aircraft.
• Authorizes the National Guard Youth Challenge Program.
• Authorizes $145.7 billion in investment in innovative next-generation technologies like AI, autonomous vehicles, and space capabilities.
• Authorizes $50 million for a Fort Knox aviation support facility
• The NDAA also allows for the Secretary of the Army to identify and enter into public-private partnerships to maintain museum operations and enhance the financial sustainability and public engagement of the museums in the Army Museum system, including the Patton Museum at Fort Knox.Additional information about the 

Additional information about the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, provided by the House Armed Services Committee, can be found here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

Scientists and advocates rally behind Stevens as she advances impeachment efforts against RFK Jr.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – ICYMI: Congresswoman Haley Stevens received new endorsements in her effort to impeach Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services. Yesterday, Stevens formally introduced Articles of Impeachment for Secretary Kennedy, citing his dangerous actions that have endangered public health and gutted lifesaving medical research.

In addition to an endorsement of her impeachment articles from Stand Up for Science, a coalition of doctors and scientists concerned with Secretary Kennedy’s chaos, Stevens received endorsements from the following Nobel Laureates and prominent scientists:

• Jack Szostak (Nobel Prize, Medicine or Physiology, 2009)

• Roger Kornberg (Nobel Prize, Chemistry, 2006)

• Craig Mello (Nobel Prize, Medicine or Physiology, 2006)

• Joachim Frank (Nobel Prize, Chemistry, 2017)

• Rod MacKinnon (Nobel Prize, Chemistry, 2003)

• W.E. Moerner (Nobel Prize, Chemistry, 2014)

• Aziz Sancar (Nobel Prize, Chemistry, 2015)

• Brian Kobilka (Nobel Prize, Chemistry, 2012)

• Martin Chalfie (Nobel Prize, Chemistry, 2008)

• Bonnie Bassler (National Medal of Science, 2025)

• Jeremy Berg (Director, National Institute of General Medical Sciences, NIH, 2003-2011)

• Joshua Gordon (Director, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, 2016-2024)

• Freeman Hrabowski (President Emeritus, University of Maryland, Baltimore County)

• Andrew Fire (Nobel Prize, Medicine or Physiology, 2006)

Read more here on what Stand Up for Science and other scientific leaders have said about Stevens leading the charge to impeach RFK.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement after she voted against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026: 

“I have been saying for months that I would not support additional offensive weapon sales to Israel that could be used against innocent Palestinians.  

“That’s why I voted against the NDAA today. This bill contains provisions that force the United States to provide further weapons, including offensive weapons, to Netanyahu as our European allies limit their military support. More weapons are the last thing we need in the region. We need a permanent ceasefire, a massive surge of humanitarian aid, and lasting peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.” 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON–Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) issued the following statement after voting against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):
“Today I voted ‘NO’ on the National Defense Authorization Act because Congress cannot continue writing blank checks for endless war while millions of Americans struggle to afford housing, health care, and basic necessities.

“This year’s NDAA authorizes nearly $900 billion for the Pentagon, more than we spend on education, health, climate, and poverty programs combined. It pours billions into weapons systems the Pentagon itself has said it does not need. It increases funding for defense contractors who profit from global instability and it advances a vision of national security rooted in militarization instead of diplomacy, human rights, or community wellbeing. Republicans also removed an Afghan relocation legislation from the final NDAA, abandoning the very allies who risked their lives to help American service members.

“At a time when families in Minnesota’s 5th District are struggling with rising costs, when our schools and social services remain underfunded, and when the Pentagon continues to evade a clean audit year after year, Congress should be investing in people.

“I will always support giving service members what they need to stay safe but that does not mean rubber stamping bloated budgets or enabling unchecked executive war powers.