On the recordJune 14, 2016
Mr. Chair, H.R. 5293 is key to funding our country's national security programs and provides for the essential needs of our military. Just as our military service members answer the call to defend the United States, so too should Americans always prioritize the funding they need to be successful in whatever mission they are tasked with. I am proud to support this bill and the important funding it provides for our Nation's military, security, and our courageous men and women in uniform. This bill makes difficult budgetary choices but includes funding for safety, security, and the ongoing success of our service members and their families. Our armed forces will stay prepared, safe and trained to fight. The legislation addresses not only current threats but instability in the Middle East, Russian aggression in the Ukraine and Baltic, and changing relationships in the Pacific. Specifically, the bill provides $517.1 billion, an increase of $3 billion above last year's level, and $58.6 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) funding--the level allowed under current law. $219 billion is included for operations and maintenance, which provides for readiness programs that prepare our troops for combat and peacetime missions. An effective military, one that is well equipped and well trained, is indispensable to the common defense of our country and is in the best interest of all Americans.…





