A Stronger Future for Long Island and Our Nation: Highlights from the FY 2025 NDAA

This past week marked a significant advancement for Long Island and the United States with the House of Representatives' passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). As your Representative in Congress, a Navy veteran, and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am proud to have been deeply involved in shaping this bill, ensuring it reflects our values and priorities.

The NDAA secures critical funding for key Long Island projects such as the Francis S. Gabreski Airport, which is set to receive $14 million for a new Air National Guard Combat Rescue Helicopter Simulator, enhancing our military readiness. Similarly, the United States Merchant Marine Academy will benefit from $64 million in capital improvements, essential for maintaining its status as a premier maritime training institution. These investments are complemented by targeted funding aimed at bolstering Long Island’s defense industrial base, reinforcing our local economy and our role in national security initiatives.

I am particularly proud of two pieces of legislation I introduced that have been included in this year's NDAA. The Plain Language in Contracting Act streamlines the Department of Defense’s contracting processes, making them more efficient and transparent, while the Gold Star Children’s Education Act ensures tuition-free access to Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools for children of fallen servicemembers, a measure of our deep gratitude for their sacrifices.

The NDAA also provides unprecedented support for our military personnel and their families. It authorizes a historic 14.5% pay increase for junior enlisted members and 4.5% for all other ranks, alongside significant investments made to improve living conditions, ensuring our servicemembers have quality housing. Enhanced employment support for military spouses will help in maintaining family stability amid relocations.

At the national level, the NDAA increases support for border security by authorizing National Guard deployments at the Southwest Border and bolsters our law enforcement's capacity to combat drug trafficking, addressing a crucial public safety concern. Additionally, it allocates over $500 million to strengthen our defense posture in the Indo-Pacific region, ensuring we are prepared to face any threats.

As this bill progresses through Congress, I am dedicated to ensuring its passage into law. This legislation is a testament to our commitment to security, prosperity, and the well-being of our servicemembers and their families. I am honored to serve as your voice in Congress and will continue to fight for the best interests of Long Island and our nation. Together, we are building a stronger, more secure future.

Thank you for your continued support and trust.