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Press Release: Foster Votes in Favor of Defense Bill

July 14, 2017

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. The National Defense Authorization Act provides $621.5 billion in discretionary base budget authority that supports the activities of the Department of Defense and defense-related activities within the Department of Energy. It also includes a 2.4% pay raise for service members.

"This Act will ensure that our military remains a leader in defense at home and abroad," Foster said. "Our national security and commitment to our armed forces is an absolute priority. I am pleased this legislation acknowledges the real threat climate change poses to national security. It is now time for Congress to invest an equal amount of time and energy toward domestic funding for education, infrastructure, and scientific research. I look forward to working with my colleagues to make sure these priorities receive the support they deserve."

During the debate, Congressman Foster spoke out against the Wilson Amendment, which would undermine commitments to nuclear nonproliferation and would send a dangerous signal to countries that seek to acquire and test nuclear weapons.

Video of Congressman Foster's speech on nuclear nonproliferation is available here.