Emerald Coast Times

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01), a member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), expressed approval for the final passage of the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by the U.S. House of Representatives on June 14, 2024. The legislation includes several key provisions for Florida's First Congressional District, securing $240 million in funding, with $191 million specifically allocated for military construction.

Before becoming law, the Senate must pass its version of the NDAA. Subsequently, members from both chambers will work on a final version in a conference committee before it is presented to the President.

Rep. Gaetz had filed an amendment requiring the Department of Defense to reinstate and provide back pay to service members discharged for not receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. However, this amendment was blocked by the Rules Committee and did not proceed to a vote.

Another amendment proposed by Rep. Gaetz aimed at prohibiting the transfer of cluster munitions failed with a vote tally of 134-286.

The FY 2025 NDAA secured significant investments for military infrastructure within Gaetz’s district:

- $98.5 million for an Advanced Helicopter Training System Hangar at NAS Whiting Field.

- A directive for repairing or replacing Hanger 3260B at NAS Pensacola damaged by Hurricane Sally.

- $42 million allocated to enhance testing capabilities at Eastern Gulf Test & Training Range (EGTTR).

Gaetz commented on these developments: “Today, I proudly exercised the voice of Northwest Florida and voted YES on the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a critical piece of legislation that provides funding for our military.”

“This bill is a huge victory for Northwest Florida's military mission and further cements our reputation as the premier location for military training in the United States," he added.

Additional inclusions secured by Rep. Gaetz are:

- $49.8 million for constructing a Weapons Technology Integration Center at Eglin Air Force Base.

- $16.9 million to house Spectrum Warfare Wing headquarters and accommodate Electronic Warfare Squadron facilities at Eglin AFB.

- Various other funds directed towards infrastructure modernization and operational enhancements across different bases within his district.

For more information or updates from Congressman Gaetz, individuals can subscribe to his newsletter through his official channels.