East Idaho Times

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cast his vote in favor of H.R. 5009, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The bill, which aims to enhance servicemembers' quality of life and bolster military readiness, was passed with a vote of 281-140.

The FY25 NDAA addresses several key areas including national defense authorization and tackling security threats from adversaries such as China, Iran, and foreign terrorist organizations. "Our servicemembers and their families have sacrificed so much for our great nation, and they deserve the highest level of support and care, both during and after their service," stated Rep. Simpson. He emphasized the importance of equipping military personnel with necessary resources to fulfill their mission effectively.

Key provisions of the bill include a significant pay raise for servicemembers—14.5% for junior enlisted personnel and 4.5% for others. Additionally, it proposes savings of $31 billion by eliminating inefficient programs and unnecessary Pentagon bureaucracy.

The legislation also focuses on domestic concerns such as supporting the deployment of the National Guard at the southwest border to combat drug trafficking. It includes measures to aid Idaho's military community by expanding employment programs for 1,600 military spouses and increasing childcare access for 2,200 children from military families in Idaho.

Rep. Simpson expressed pride in supporting this critical legislation: "Equipping the courageous men and women who put their lives on the line every day with the resources they need is critical for our nation's military to protect and defend our national interests."