Alcee Hastings: “I will vote for H.R. 4546, the Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003. It is noteworthy that…”

“I will vote for H.R. 4546, the Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003. It is noteworthy that it is named for the chairman, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump), and it will be a tremendous legacy once finalized. The bill has flaws, however, and there were numerous amendments that were offered by Members on both sides of the aisle which were not made part of this rule. However, I do feel overall that the rule will allow for support for our fighting men and women as they wage war against terrorism. It equips them with the technology, training and personnel that they need to attain victory, and also demonstrates our commitment to providing an improved quality of life in granting of funds for military living and working facilities. However, due to the structured rule, we have been denied the opportunity to debate several amendments, including one I introduced. The amendment I introduced would have increased funding currently authorized for military health care by $2.5 million, with the necessary offsets that would not have affected the Pentagon at all. Not $25 million, not $250 million, but just $2.5 million specifically for retirees and their dependents.”