East Idaho Times

Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, both Republicans from Idaho, have shown their support for the troops by voting in favor of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This important legislation not only provides a much-needed pay raise for military personnel, but it also addresses various issues within the Department of Defense and allocates funding for several projects in Idaho.

In a joint statement, Senators Crapo and Risch emphasized the significance of supporting the men and women serving in the military, particularly in light of rising inflationary costs affecting their daily lives. They stated, "The men and women in America's military deserve a pay raise, especially given inflationary costs have skyrocketed their grocery and gas bills." They further highlighted that the NDAA not only fulfills this requirement but also ensures the readiness of the American military, tackles border security, removes certain ideological priorities, and ensures responsible spending of taxpayer dollars.

The NDAA includes several key provisions. Firstly, it provides a 5.2% pay raise for troops, acknowledging their dedication and service. Additionally, it addresses concerns regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the Department of Defense by freezing DEI hires and limiting their salaries. The legislation also reinforces the commitment to border security by requiring the continuation of border wall construction.

Furthermore, the NDAA prohibits the teaching of critical race theory (CRT) within the Department of Defense. This move aims to prevent the infusion of divisive ideologies into military training and operations. The act also establishes a new inspector general for Ukraine, enhancing oversight and accountability in U.S. involvement with Ukraine.

Senators Crapo and Risch played a significant role in the development of the NDAA. They were instrumental in the inclusion of provisions such as the requirement for the Air Force to develop a long-term fighter sustainment plan, which is based on the Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act authored by Senator Crapo and supported by Senator Risch. This plan will contribute to the effectiveness and longevity of the Air Force's fighter fleet.

Idaho will also benefit from the NDAA, as it allocates substantial funding to various projects in the state. Some notable provisions include $36.5 million for the Naval Reactors Facility Medical Science Complex in Idaho Falls, over $17 million for the Jerome County National Guard Readiness Center, and over $440 million for the Idaho National Lab (INL). The INL will receive $176.7 million in funding for Project Pele, a mobile micro nuclear reactor pilot program scheduled for deployment by 2025. This initiative represents a significant step towards advancing clean and secure energy production.

Moreover, the NDAA supports research for composite alternatives to titanium, specifically focusing on thermoplastics at the Funding Advanced Thermoplastics Composite (ATC) Manufacturing facility in Post Falls, Idaho. The legislation also provides funding for the Civil Air Patrol, which has an active Idaho Wing.

Additionally, the NDAA directs the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a nuclear fuel program aimed at onshoring nuclear fuel production. This initiative aims to reduce U.S. reliance on Russian enriched uranium, thereby enhancing energy production and national security.

In conclusion, Senators Crapo and Risch have demonstrated their unwavering support for the troops and the defense of the nation by voting in favor of the FY 2024 NDAA. Their efforts have resulted in a bill that not only provides a much-needed pay raise for military personnel but also addresses various issues within the Department of Defense and allocates significant funding for projects in Idaho. With the passage of this legislation, the American military will be better equipped to confront threats abroad while ensuring the responsible use of taxpayer dollars.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-support-troops