WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Kay Granger (R-Texas) today applauded the passage of the $658 billion Defense Appropriations bill as a major step toward the rebuilding and modernization of the military. 

“Our highest priority is the security of the American people, which is why I congratulate my colleagues today for passing the ‘Make America Secure Appropriations Act,’ which includes the defense spending bill,” said Granger, chairwoman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. “The bill will increase end strength, improve military readiness, modernization and investment in future technology.  

The bill, which was approved by the House as part of a 'minibus' package of four appropriation bills, establishes a $28.6 billion National Defense Restoration Fund that will enable Defense Secretary James Mattis to recommend to Congress investments to modernize the armed forces based on a new defense strategy expected in September.

Since becoming chair of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, Granger has made it a priority to listen first and foremost to U.S. defense and intelligence experts so that Congress ensures our armed forces have what they need to face both current and future threats.

“After years of cuts, it’s time to rebuild our military and restore combat readiness. The defense spending bill we passed today provides funding for more troops, more equipment, and more training,” Granger said. “It provides Secretary Mattis with the resources he needs to address military readiness and also begin critical investments in increasing capabilities, lethality, and modernization.”

Granger believes there should be no uncertainty when it comes to our national defense. Increased funding for defense is urgent because the world is increasingly dangerous and unstable.  

“Our adversaries are emboldened. We must ensure that our military is prepared to confront anyone who threatens us. This can only be done by reversing the years of budget instability, defense spending caps, and continuous cuts that have undermined our military readiness,” Granger said. “I am proud to say that the defense appropriations bill we advanced today begins the process of putting our country’s security on the right path and I urge the Senate to take it up and pass it quickly.”