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Washington D.C.- U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) today expressed her support of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 (H.R. 1588). The bill sets policies, programs and funding levels for the nation’s military.
Emerson cast her vote in favor of the bill shortly before embarking on a fact-finding mission to the Middle East with a congressional delegation of ten members.
“Funding for our men and women in uniform, as well as those who served our nation with honor, deserves the best efforts of Congress. Our troops are doing an outstanding job meeting the challenges that face us in the world today, and they deserve every penny of the provisions in this bill,” Emerson said. “A pay raise, more help with housing expenses, and increases in hazard pay are more than appropriate given the added responsibilities we are giving to our troops. They do not have an easy job, but they never complain. I’m very proud of the work they are doing in the Middle East and around the world.”
“Our veterans also receive some long-needed attention in this legislation. Progress on the issue of concurrent receipt is extremely important to our veterans. This is a benefit our veterans earned and deserve,” Emerson added.
H.R. 1588 authorizes $400 billion for the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy. It is expected to also pass the Senate early next week and then be sent to President Bush for his signature and enactment into law.
Highlights of H.R. 1588 include:
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A 4.15 percent average increase in base pay for our men and women in uniform.
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A reduction in the average amount of housing expenses paid by service members from the current 7.5 percent to 3.5 percent in fiscal year 2004 – with elimination of the out-of-pocket expense completely by fiscal year 2005.
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An increase in the family separation allowance (for service members with dependents) from $100 per month to $250 per month, for the period beginning October 1, 2003 and ending on December 31, 2004.
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An increase in the rate of special pay for those subject to hostile fire and imminent danger from $150 per month to $225 per month, for the period beginning October 1, 2003 to December 31, 2004.
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Extensions on other special pay and bonuses for active duty personnel through December 31, 2004.
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Concurrent Receipt for Military Retirees: Currently, disabled veterans’ retirement benefits are offset by the amount of disability coverage that they are eligible for. H.R. 1588 provides full concurrent receipt of benefits for the most severely disabled veterans.
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Military Construction: The bill authorizes $9.7 billion for construction of family housing, childcare centers, medical centers and other facilities.
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New Weapons/Equipment: The bill authorizes $74 billion to purchase new weapons and equipment.
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“Freedom to Train”: H.R. 1588 contains focused, common-sense reforms of environmental laws that had begun to encroach on the ability of our soldiers to train for combat. |
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