Katie Porter: “I rise today to expres smy strong support for the conference report to H.R. 4103, the Department of Defense…”

“I rise today to expres smy strong support for the conference report to H.R. 4103, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 1999. I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize the distinguished Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security for his role in crafting a conference report that truly reflects our nation's priorities and ensures the continued preeminence of our military. He is to be commended for acknowledging the effect quality of life issues has on our military's performance. I am especially pleased with the provisions that express our concern for the welfare of the men and women in the armed services and their families. H.R. 4103 includes $35 million for Impact Aid, a program which provides funds to schools that experience a reduced property tax base as a result of their location near a military installation. Military personnel should not be forced to choose between their career and their children's education. This conference report also includes a much needed 3.6 percent military pay raise, a half percent above what was requested. Mr. Chairman, quality of life issues in our military have been neglected for too long. It is time that we address them and I believe that this conference report begins to do that. I urge my colleagues to give this conference report their strongest support.”