East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo, both Republicans from Idaho, have announced their support for the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation is aimed at enhancing the military capabilities of the United States while incorporating specific provisions beneficial to Idaho.

The NDAA for FY 2025 aims to boost national security and support military personnel through pay increases, better access to childcare, employment opportunities, and improved housing. It also includes measures to prevent the Department of Defense from implementing initiatives related to gender identity that are seen as detracting from military readiness.

Senator Risch stated, “This year’s NDAA places the safety of the American people ahead of woke identity politics.” He emphasized that the legislation allocates necessary resources to strengthen national security both in Idaho and globally.

Senator Crapo highlighted several victories within the bill for both Idaho and the country. “Inclusion of language from my bill, the Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act, protects fighter squadrons--such as the Idaho Air National Guard’s 190th Fighter Squadron--from force reductions,” he said. He also mentioned secured funding for projects at Mountain Home Air Force Base and Idaho National Laboratory (INL), which he believes will positively impact local communities and national security.

Key provisions secured by Senators Risch and Crapo include requiring a plan for sustaining fighter fleets by the U.S. Air Force, providing resources for INL cleanup efforts, supporting Project Pele—a mobile micro nuclear reactor project—and directing funds to several Idaho-based facilities.

Overall, the FY 2025 NDAA outlines a comprehensive approach to improving conditions for servicemembers with a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted members and a 4.5 percent increase in basic pay across all ranks. It also expands access to childcare and healthcare while addressing other social issues within military structures such as blocking critical race theory programming.

The legislation takes steps against antisemitism by prohibiting contracts with entities boycotting Israel and addresses Chinese espionage concerns at U.S. military sites. It also supports allied cooperation with Taiwan, South Korea, and the Philippines against Pacific adversaries.