Rep. Rick Allen Supports FY 2016 National Defense Bill

Press Release

U.S. Congressman Rick Allen (R-Ga.-12) today voted in favor of H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2016. The NDAA is annual legislation which authorizes defense spending and sets priorities for the U.S. military. Congressman Allen issued the following statement after the House passed the legislation earlier today:

"Today the House acted to carry out Congress' first constitutional responsibility of providing for the common defense by approving this year's National Defense Authorization Act. It was an honor to cast my first vote in favor of this legislation to support our brave service members around the world.

"This NDAA provides resources for our troops at the levels outlined in Congress' balanced budget plan to ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely and effectively. It reaffirms our commitment to supporting our men and women in uniform by enhancing pay and benefits for our service members and their families.

"As America continues to fight terrorism around the world, we must remain vigilant against a wide array of threats. This bill equips our military with critical resources to defeat ISIL and enforces stronger oversight and restrictions on the detainment and transfer of terrorists. In addition, this legislation recognizes the importance of a strong cyber defense by approving all U.S. Cyber Command and Military Service programs.

"I was also pleased this NDAA provides full funding for construction at Fort Gordon that was requested by the Army. With recent growth and the future addition of Cyber Command Headquarters in Augusta, ensuring Fort Gordon has the infrastructure support it needs is a top priority.

"This NDAA will help keep our military strong and Americans safe. Americans deserve to feel secure in their homes. This bill supports our military to bolster national defense at home and abroad. I hope the Senate and President will act quickly to approve this legislation which is vital to our troops and national security."

Specifically, the FY 2016 NDAA will support Fort Gordon and its missions by:

· Providing full funding in the President's budget request for cyber for the Army, as well as the other Military Service programs and CYBERCOM.

· Providing an additional $25 million for the defense-wide deployment of cyber defense tools, which will support Army cyber defenders, as well as other service cyber defenders.

· Providing liability protection for companies reporting network cyber intrusions, which will provide valuable intelligence to support Army and Department of Defense network defenders.

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