Washington, D.C. (December 12, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after President Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018 into law:

"The NDAA focuses on modernizing our military forces so our nation is ready to take on tomorrow's threats. To do so, it prioritizes vital missions ongoing at New Mexico's labs and bases, like White Sands Missile Range that tests next-generation missile defense systems required to combat the growing threats around the world. By authorizing equipment, training, and resources our nation's military relies upon to complete its mission, we are reaffirming the nation's commitment to ensuring our troops will not face the enemy unprepared. Along with these significant reforms and rebuilding of our military, the NDAA includes a military pay raise, which is the largest raise the military has seen in eight years.

America's service members, veterans, and their families have sacrificed greatly to defend our freedoms and preserve democracy. We must never revert to a place where we do not stand up and show our thanks for the sacrifices service members make so that we can live free and safe. With this bill, our military will have resources to combat the threats of today, while preparing for what the future holds. I'm pleased to see this legislation signed into law, and will continue being steadfast in my commitment to stand by the brave men and women who answer the call of duty."

Background
In November 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 2810, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018, sending the bill to the President's desk.