This year, we have experienced a slew of complex and unprecedented national defense challenges, from high-altitude Chinese balloons entering U.S. airspace to an immigration crisis at a level never before seen in New York. Some of our greatest adversaries, Russia, China and North Korea, have been working diligently to take over the U.S. as a global superpower. The U.S. dollar is under attack, smaller countries are being invaded, and nuclear tests are ramping up. We must continue, as Americans, to improve our national security and safeguard critical infrastructure. 

Last month, members of Congress voted to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill allocates $886.3 billion for national defense, including provisions for Fort Drum, the 10th Mountain Division and military families. Some of the improvements being made include establishing a missile defense site and even allocating $5 million to fund research at the Air Force Research Lab.

Lawmakers are finally moving legislation along that benefits those who help keep our country safe. The NDAA will provide a pay raise of 5.2% for service members, the biggest raise in over 20 years, give junior enlisted members a monthly bonus in an attempt to counteract inflation from the Biden administration and even make improvements to the childcare services available to servicemembers. This Republican-backed legislation advocates for a safer and happier America.

People often forget what Upstate New York has to offer. While we do have lovely vineyards, farms and various winter sports facilities, we also have a 107,265-acre military base. This new legislation will help improve the economy in Upstate New York, providing various job opportunities and assistance to those in need, while also encouraging spending through pay raises and bonuses. 

We are trying to get America back up on her feet one step at a time. This legislation will play a significant role in shaping technology, ensuring secure supply chains for the military, strengthening national defense, creating new job opportunities, and generally will benefit Upstate New York in the long run.