Amodei supports defense authorization

IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

December 14, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today voted in favor of H.R. 1540, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report, which passed the House 283 to 136 with broad bi-partisan support.

"This bill represents a commitment to our service men and women and their families, all of whom sacrifice dearly on our behalf," said Amodei. "As we come to terms with the reality of the fiscal crisis, may we never lose sight of their needs, both in the field and at home."

Funding for the FY 12 NDAA was decreased $21.8 billion from the original House-passed version to comply with the Budget Control Act’s requirement to cut defense spending by an estimated $465 billion over 10 years, beginning in 2013.

Specific provisions for NV-2 include:

$11,375,000 for the construction of an Army Reserve readiness center at the Fire Science Academy site in Carlin.

The following Nellis Air Force Base projects:

$35,850,000 for construction and land acquisition.

$21,500,000 for an F-35a age facility.

$11,600,000 for a communications network control center.

$2,750,000 for an F-35 add/alter engine shop.

$97,559,000 for operation of the Nevada Test Site in Nye County.

The NDAA also strengthens policies and procedures to prosecute, interrogate and detain terrorists. It does not extend any new authority to detain U.S. Citizens or infringe upon Constitutional rights, as previously feared, which enabled Amodei to fully support the bill. The House Armed Services Committee has plans to modify the detention language to further emphasize the Constitutional rights of American citizens. The existing language was from last year's defense appropriations bill and a modification was deferred so as to not delay needed funding to the troops.

For more information on the NDAA, please go to www.armedservices.house.gov

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