The House of Representatives recently approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a comprehensive bill outlining the allocation of $895.2 billion for defense and national security. This legislation passed with a 281-140 vote, reflecting a more partisan divide than in previous years, largely due to contentious provisions regarding transgender healthcare coverage for minors.

A central focus of the NDAA is enhancing the quality of life for service members, addressing ongoing recruitment challenges. The bill incorporates a substantial 14.5% pay increase for junior enlisted personnel, alongside a 4.5% raise for all service members effective January 1st. Further provisions aim to improve childcare access and offer job support for military spouses.

Beyond compensation, the NDAA addresses a range of policy issues, including eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at the Pentagon. This move has drawn criticism from some Democrats, who argue it injects unnecessary partisanship into defense matters. Specifically, the restriction on Tricare coverage for transgender services for minors of service members has sparked debate and opposition.

Other key elements within the NDAA include support for deploying the National Guard to the southern border to address illegal immigration and drug trafficking, a potential pilot program allowing facial hair for Air Force and Space Force personnel, and a hiring freeze on DEI-related roles pending an investigation into Pentagon DEI initiatives. The bill also prohibits funding for certain climate change programs and restricts the Defense Department from contracting with advertising companies that blacklist conservative news outlets.

While the NDAA sets policy, a separate spending bill is required to allocate the funds for these programs. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration before reaching President Biden’s desk.