WASHINGTON, DC (December 11, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), released the following statement after voting against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025.
“The federal government has the solemn responsibility to support our servicemembers who make immense sacrifices to defend our nation. Still, House Republicans have decided to prioritize political interests and agendas ahead of the millions in our military who protect us every day,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “This bill attacks diversity, limits equity and inclusion, undermines essential climate measures, and restricts servicemember’s families from making their own health care decisions. Although this was a difficult decision, I cannot in good conscience support legislation that takes a step back in promoting inclusivity within our military and may force servicemembers to choose between continuing their service or ensuring proper health care for their families.”
Specifically, the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act would:
- Ban gender-affirming care to military dependents under the age of 18.
- Impose a hiring freeze on personnel to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the military.
- Prohibit funding for the working group which investigates and screens for white nationalist and other discriminatory ideologies in the military.
- Defund Pentagon efforts to minimize the risk of climate-change impacts from major federal procurements.
A summary of the FY25 NDAA is available here. The full bill text can be found here.