Legislation that funds a 3.7 percent military pay raise next year passed in conference late Monday night.
The legislation (H.R. 4576) provides an increase of $18.2 billion over the current fiscal year defense appropriation, and nearly $3.3 billion more than was budgeted for defense by the president, according to Rep. Jerry Lewis, R-Calif., chairman of the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.
Much of the funding is set aside for military training and quality of life initiatives, including $12.1 billion for improvements to the military health care system, and increased funds for recruiting and retention programs. Health care funding will include expanded pharmacy access for military retirees, approved by the House in the fiscal 2001 National Defense Authorization Act.
"This appropriations bill is moving very quickly because Republicans and Democrats in both the House and Senate agree that we must provide the resources our men and women in uniform need to maintain America's role as the world's last superpower," Lewis said. "Our armed forces are filled with unquestionably the best soldiers, sailors and Marines in the world, and Congress agrees that we must reward and support their dedication."
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