Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40) issued the following statement on her vote today in support of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conference bill:
“I am committed to ensuring our national security, and to supporting the brave servicemembers who defend our land of liberty. That is why I voted for today’s NDAA conference bill, which authorizes strong investments in our national security and provides for our troops and their families. I am pleased today’s bill includes a 2.1 percent military pay raise, and no longer includes numerous controversial weakenings of some of President Obama’s defense-related LGBT, environmental, and labor provisions. I opposed that May NDAA bill, but this bill includes substantial improvements.
“I am especially glad that today’s bill directs the Pentagon to complete a review of all California National Guard members who were impacted by the California Guard bonus issue, and creates tools to alleviate any financial hardship for California Guardsmen who were unaware they were erroneously paid bonuses from 2004 to 2010.
“Although I am disappointed this bill continues restrictions on the closure of the detention facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, the overall bill is a good one. It provides the equipment and tools necessary to keep our nation safe. My vote for this NDAA was a vote for the safety of the American people.“
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