National Defense Authorization Bill Passes Senate

Statement

U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai"i) today voted for the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA will authorize provisions important to Hawai"i's economy and military community, and strengthens our national defense. The bill passed by a 71-25 vote with large bipartisan support.

"The defense authorization bill includes many provisions that strengthen our national defense, reinforce the need to rebalance to the Asia Pacific--through which Hawai"i is central--and provide our service members with the equipment and training they need to protect America," said Senator Schatz. "The bill specifically states that any withdrawal of U.S. forces from U.S. Pacific Command would undermine the rebalance to the Asia Pacific, and that U.S. forces under the operational control of U.S. Pacific Command--like those of U.S. Army Pacific based in Hawai"i--should be increased, consistent with our commitment to the region."

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