Today, Congressman Bilirakis proudly voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Committee report. Congressman Bilirakis served as a conferee responsible for negotiating the differences between the House and Senate versions of this important funding bill. The legislation contains essential programs which will help strengthen our national defense. One issue that was especially important to Congressman Bilirakis involved Tricare. During conference, he took an active role in fighting for active duty personnel and military retirees who participate in this great program. He successfully secured the inclusion of the House provision which holds current active duty members and those who entered military service prior to January 1, 2018, harmless with respect to a new structured fee schedule for Tricare beneficiaries. Additionally, the package contained funding to ensure our nation's heroes will receive a well-deserved 2.4% pay increase next year.
"The NDAA provides vital resources that are integral to our nation's continued security. There is no greater priority - because if we aren't safe nothing else matters. Honoring the commitments made to our heroes is the very least we can do to show our appreciation for their service and sacrifice. I was honored to fight on their behalf," said Congressman Bilirakis.