Rep. Smith Votes to Boost Resources for the Military

Today I voted to provide critical resources for our national security with my support for The National Defense Authorization Act. The bipartisan bill passed 344-81.

The 21st Congressional District is home to Joint Base San Antonio-Ft. Sam Houston and over 60,000 active duty servicemembers, veterans and their families. I gave the following statement on the bill:

As we know in Texas, a state where military culture runs deep, the men and women who keep us safe are our country’s most valuable asset. Congress has the responsibility to provide them the resources, care and pay raise they need, earned, and deserve.

After a decade and a half of cuts, we are providing the measures to rebuild and maintain our military. The 2.4 percent pay raise in the bill is the highest in eight years. The legislation also increases the number of troops, provides greater training opportunities, and prioritizes the restoration and modernization of our military facilities. I will continue to work for the servicemen and women who sacrifice so that all Americans can be free.