The recently approved Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20 NDAA) by the House will mean critical funding for Georgia, according to Congressman Austin Scott (R-GA-08).
The legislation, that authorizes funding levels for Department of Defense programs, designates millions in funding for Robins Air Force Base and Moody Air Force Base in middle and south Georgia.
“The critically-important E-8 Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (J-STARS) fleet based at Robins Air Force Base will receive $48.7 million, which includes a $20 million plus-up for re-engining. Robins will also receive $43 million to construct its consolidated mission complex,” Scott said. “Additionally, Moody Air Force Base will receive $12.5 million to construct a much-needed combat rescue helicopter (HH-60W) apron.”
Also included in the package is a provision added by Scott to reimburse military spouses up to $1,000 for licensing and certification costs associated with a mandated move. Scott explains that this provision would potentially assist military spouses who are teachers, advance practice nurses, physician’s assistants, occupational therapists, dental hygienists, nutritionists, counselors, social workers, veterinarians, cosmetologists and realtors, among other careers.
Key provisions of the Conference Report include a 3.1 percent pay-raise for American troops – the largest increase in a decade – and also extends special pay and bonuses for service members. Another provision increases transparency and oversight of privatized military housing, including a new Tenant Bill of Rights.
Other provisions include:
● READINESS: Provides the resources to continue to rebuild readiness, advance modernization of the nuclear triad, develop emerging technologies, enhance missile defense, and confront our adversaries.
● BORDER SECURITY: Does not include any prohibitions on funding a border wall nor restrictions affecting the counterdrug programs that construct fences along the border to block drug smuggling corridors.
● GUANTANAMO BAY: Maintains long-standing prohibitions on transferring detainees from Guantanamo Bay, constructing detention facilities in the U.S., and closing Guantanamo.
● NATURAL DISASTERS: Provides an additional $5.3 billion in emergency funding for military installations damaged by natural disasters.
● SPACE FORCE: Establishes the United States Space Force as the sixth branch of the military.
● PAID PARENTAL LEAVE: Provides up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave for the Defense Department, Intelligence Community, and across the federal government, a key administration priority.
