Baldwin Statement on the FY16 National Defense Authorization Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin released the following statement after the Senate passed the FY16 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by a vote of 71-25:

“Unfortunately Senate Republicans have pursued the wrong path of funding gimmicks that shortchange our military and their families. I also cannot support this legislation because it includes unnecessary restrictions on the Littoral Combat Ship program, which could lead to breaks in production of these ships made at Marinette Marine and have a negative impact on our Made in Wisconsin economy.

"This defense bill is inflated with one-year budget gimmicks and locks in cuts to investments in cybersecurity and counterterrorism that are critical to our national security. In addition, this legislation relies on deep, automatic cuts to investments in health care, scientific research, transportation, education, and other middle-class priorities that strengthen our economic security at home. 

"I oppose this legislation but I look forward to working with members of both parties to improve this bill before it becomes law so that our budget choices supports our servicemembers, our national security, and the economic security of Wisconsin’s middle class.”