Washington D.C. – The U.S. Senate has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, which includes a provision championed by Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) to support Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs nationwide. JROTC, sponsored by the U.S. Armed Forces, offers leadership and citizenship training to high school and middle school students across the country.
The provision secured by Senator Britt reduces the minimum number of students required to establish a JROTC unit from 100 to 50, ensuring that schools like Hoover High School in Alabama can continue offering this program. Senator Britt emphasized the importance of JROTC in developing future leaders, saying, “By ensuring Alabama students have the ability to participate in our outstanding JROTC programs, we’re empowering the next generation of leaders with important values of high character, responsibility, and selfless service to our nation.”
Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato expressed his support, highlighting the program’s role in shaping students’ character and leadership skills: “JROTC at Hoover High School plays a vital role in shaping the character, discipline, and leadership of our young men and women. It inspires them to serve their country and community with honor and pride.”
In addition to the JROTC provision, the FY25 NDAA addresses national defense priorities, including a 4.5% pay raise for active-duty servicemembers and a 14.5% raise for junior enlisted personnel. The bill also prioritizes modernizing defense technologies, combating drug and human trafficking at U.S. borders, and supporting allied nations like Israel.
Senator Britt noted the broader implications of the bill, stating, “The FY25 NDAA ensures the Yellowhammer State remains at the forefront of America’s defenses while modernizing our military’s cutting-edge capabilities and assets.”
The NDAA, passed annually by Congress since 1961, serves as a cornerstone of U.S. defense policy, outlining funding and strategic priorities for the military. This year’s act reinforces the importance of programs like JROTC in fostering leadership and service among young Americans.
