Dallas City Wire

WASHINGTON - Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) and his House Armed Services Committee (HASC) colleagues successfully advanced H.R. 2670, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, out of committee late last night. This comprehensive legislative package includes crucial provisions supporting foreign relations, enhancing oversight of the Department of Defense, and generating employment opportunities for the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex. Congressman Veasey played a pivotal role in authoring and advocating for these provisions.      

"I may not agree with every provision, as no bill is perfect, but I voted to advance the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 because it is our duty to safeguard our nation's security interests and uphold our promises to the brave men and women serving in our armed forces and their families," Congressman Veasey said. "The package the Committee voted on includes many key provisions that will make a difference for the people of North Texas."    

Notably, this bipartisan legislation secures several wins for North Texas, reaffirming Congressman Veasey's commitment to his constituents. Among the provisions are:  

• Funding for F-35s: The legislation allocates funding to support procuring 83 F-35 fighter aircraft. This investment strengthens national defense capabilities and creates numerous job opportunities within the DFW Metroplex.
• Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) development funding: The legislation continues to allocate funds for the development of the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft, a key component of the military's modernization efforts. The FLRAA is set to be built in the DFW area, further bolstering employment and economic growth in the region.
• Support for Ukraine and allies: The legislation demonstrates support for Ukraine and other allies. The legislation strongly emphasizes and reaffirms support for Ukraine and other key allies. It recognizes the significance of maintaining strong relationships with these nations and acknowledges the importance of their security and stability. Demonstrating support for Ukraine and other allies, the legislation clearly conveys that the United States stands firmly with its partners. It shows a commitment to upholding shared values, promoting regional stability, and safeguarding the interests of the United States and its allies.
• Improvements to DoD's contracting strategies: The NDAA includes provisions to enhance the Department of Defense's (DoD) contracting strategies. These improvements seek to increase efficiencies, streamline processes, and ensure effective utilization of resources within the DoD.
• HBCU funding: The legislation includes funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This provision recognizes the importance of these institutions in promoting education, research, and innovation, particularly in the defense sector.

Through the advancement of the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2024, Congressman Marc Veasey and his colleagues have prioritized national defense and secured important benefits for the DFW Metroplex. The provisions outlined above underscore their commitment to supporting the region's economic growth, job creation, military capabilities, and partnerships with allies.

Original source can be found here.