Rogers, Strong champion Alabama interests in defense bill

U.S. Reps. Mike Rogers and Dale Strong secured major victories for Alabama in the recent markup of the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act.

The annual process shapes America’s defense policies and funding.

“Providing for our nation’s defense is the top priority for the House Armed Services Committee and I am incredibly proud of the bipartisan work we’ve accomplished in the FY24 NDAA,” Rogers (R-Saks), chairman of the Armed Services Committee, said. “This year’s NDAA includes provisions that counter China’s aggression, boost oversight of the Department of Defense, and support our servicemembers and their families.

“Additionally, this year’s bill saves taxpayers billions of dollars while still making critical investments in innovative technologies and our defense industrial base.”

Chairman @RepMikeRogersAL delivered the following opening statement at the full committee markup for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024.https://t.co/nrnpGg7LVx pic.twitter.com/Tq9KeAqm85

— Armed Services GOP (@HASCRepublicans) June 21, 2023

“I am especially proud of the strong provisions in the FY24 NDAA that support the critical role Alabama plays in our national defense and strengthens that role for years to come,” Rogers said.

Meanwhile, well into his first term representing North Alabama, Strong (R-Huntsville) holds a pivotal role on the Armed Services Committee under Rogers’ leadership.

“In this bill, I championed what the Tennessee Valley does best,” Strong said. “You’d be hard-pressed to find a community that understands the importance of protecting America’s men and women in uniform better than North Alabama.

“In this bill, I championed what the Tennessee Valley does best: missile defense, cutting-edge research and development, and national security space and cybersecurity programs.”

Following a decisive 58-1 committee vote, the NDAA awaits consideration by the full House likely next week. Both representatives expressed anticipation for the bill’s progression to the House floor and appreciation for their colleagues’ dedication to national security.

Among the more noteworthy measures is a requirement for the Secretary of the Air Force to report the selection of a permanent location for the Space Command headquarters before any facilities are built for its use.

Rogers inserted language, known as the “chairman’s mark,” to accelerate Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall into making a decision on the permanent location of the U.S. Space Command.

Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, also ushered in bipartisan language to freeze funding for further Space Command facility development in Colorado until a permanent headquarters site is chosen or a satisfactory report is submitted.

The FY24 NDAA sits at $858 billion, a marginal rise compared to last year’s $827 billion. It includes enhanced assistance to Taiwan and Ukraine.

“I thank my colleagues on the committee for their hard work in support of our national security,” Rogers said. “I look forward to advancing this bill to the full House in the coming weeks.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270