U.S. Rep. Jake Ellzey Proudly Serving the 6th District of Texas | Facebook Website
U.S. Rep. Jake Ellzey Proudly Serving the 6th District of Texas | Facebook Website
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jake Ellzey, a member of the Defense Subcommittee, has announced the successful passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 Defense Appropriations Act. This legislation secures a total discretionary allocation that surpasses the Fiscal Year 2024 level and aligns with the limits set by the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
The Defense Appropriations Act focuses on ensuring combat-ready military forces to deter war and protect national security. It removes funding for social agendas deemed divisive and distracting from this mission.
Through rigorous oversight, the bill rejects numerous items from the President’s Budget Request, reallocating those funds to counter threats from China and other near-peer adversaries, foster innovation, combat illegal drugs like fentanyl, and support servicemembers and their families.
Key highlights include:
1. Countering China:
- Funds allocated for Taiwan's security cooperation.
- Prevention of early retirement for critical naval and air force assets.
- Increased investments in advanced aircraft such as the F-35.
- Support for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative.
2. Promoting Innovation and Modernization:
- Funding for leveraging private capital through the Office of Strategic Capital.
- Resources allocated to the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU).
- Significant funding for programs to expedite new technologies to warfighters.
- Investments in next-generation military equipment.
- Support for nuclear triad modernization.
3. Supporting Servicemembers and Families:
- Pay raises for all military personnel with additional increases for junior enlisted servicemembers.
- Protection of National Guard missions from unauthorized transfers.
4. Optimizing Civilian Workforce:
- Budget cuts in civilian workforce spending.
- Focus on technology over manual processes where applicable.
- Reduced funding for advisory contractors.
5. Combating Illicit Fentanyl:
- Significant resources allocated for drug interdiction activities.
- Increased funding for National Guard Counterdrug Program.
- Transfer of Mexico to U.S. Southern Command jurisdiction.
6. Supporting Israel:
- Funding provided for Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Programs.
- Resources allocated for U.S.-Israeli anti-tunneling cooperation.
7. Core Responsibilities Focus:
– Cuts in non-essential items to fund warfighting needs and support servicemembers.
– Reduced funding for climate change initiatives.
8. Upholding American Values:
– Prohibition on paid leave related to abortion services.
– Protections against religious discrimination maintained.
“This bill comes at a time of global conflict,” said Ellzey. “Alongside the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act, the House has delivered a clear message: we are refocusing on our core mission, prioritizing military lethality, and protecting Americans.”
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