Pulaski Times

U.S. Senator John Boozman has expressed his support for the Senate's approval of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The legislation aims to improve the quality of life for servicemembers and their families while enhancing national security through new policies focused on recruitment, readiness, and military capabilities.

The NDAA includes provisions led by Boozman to establish an Academic Training Center at Ebbing Air National Guard Base and outlines a framework for Arkansas to request permanent ownership of the former Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs.

"Providing for our national defense is one of Congress’ primary responsibilities, particularly at an incredibly volatile time around the globe," Boozman stated. He emphasized that supporting military personnel with better pay, housing, childcare, and other opportunities is crucial. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of improving recruitment efforts and investing in the defense industrial base.

Specific provisions championed by Boozman in the FY25 NDAA include funding authorization for an Academic Training Center at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith to support F-35 foreign pilot training missions. It also allows Arkansas to develop or sell the former Army-Navy Hospital property under certain conditions.

Other notable aspects of the legislation include a historic 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers and a 4.5 percent raise for all other servicemembers. It expands access to medical care for military families, supports employment programs for military spouses, enhances housing and childcare options, and prioritizes recruiting improvements with increased funding for JROTC programs.

The bill also aims to strengthen deterrence against adversaries such as China, Iran, Russia, North Korea, and terrorist organizations while further investing in the domestic defense industrial base. It permits deployment of National Guard troops to the southwest border and empowers the Department of Defense (DoD) to increase efforts against illegal migration and narcotics interdiction.

Additionally, it redirects DoD priorities away from social policies like DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion), Critical Race Theory, and climate change towards warfighting preparation.

The measure now awaits signing into law by the president.