Washington, D.C. – In a significant legislative move, the House of Representatives has passed H.R. 8070, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act. This bill, championed by U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (AL-03), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, aims to enhance the well-being of servicemembers and ensure the ongoing strength and modernization of the U.S. military.
In a statement following the House passage of the bill, Rep. Rogers emphasized the critical importance of investing in the men and women of the All-Volunteer Force. “There is no investment more important than the one we make in the men and women who serve in our All-Volunteer Force. We cannot kick the can down the road when it comes to providing for our servicemembers,” Rogers stated.
Key provisions of the bill include a 19.5% pay increase for junior enlisted servicemembers, improvements to unaccompanied housing, expanded access to childcare and healthcare for servicemembers, and support for military spouses. “Our servicemembers are the bedrock of our national security. Strengthening our military starts by ensuring our servicemembers are taken care of,” Rogers added.
The bill also addresses the complex and evolving threats facing the nation. It maintains the modernization of the nuclear deterrent, invests in undersea capabilities, boosts innovation, and supports the capabilities necessary for future battlefields. “To ensure that we stay ahead of our adversaries, the FY25 NDAA keeps the continued modernization of our nuclear deterrent on track, invests in our undersea capabilities, boosts innovation, and supports the capabilities our warfighters need to succeed on any future battlefield,” Rogers noted.
The FY25 NDAA will benefit servicemembers and military families in Alabama, with specific support for the Anniston Army Depot’s critical operations. “The FY25 NDAA will improve the quality of life for servicemembers and military families across Alabama and support the vital work being done at the Anniston Army Depot,” Rogers remarked.
Rep. Rogers concluded by highlighting the strategic importance of maintaining military strength to deter adversaries. “Our adversaries will only be deterred through strength and the FY25 NDAA ensures our military will continue to project that strength.”
