WASHINGTON, D.C. – Friday, the House of Representatives passed the annual defense spending bill, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2015. H.R. 4870 passed by a vote of 340-73. Rep. Jackie Walorski (IN-02), member of the House Armed Services Committee and House Veterans’ Affair Committee, issued the following statement:
“As always, ensuring our men and women in uniform have the necessary resources is one of my highest priorities. As they continue to fight for America’s freedom, I will continue to fight on their behalf in Washington.
“I’m delighted my amendment to stop the Secretary of Defense from using any funds to transfer or release Guantanamo Bay detainees to Yemen was included as part of the bill. Yemen has become a focus of terrorist activity and this language is necessary to stop the worst detainees from reengaging in plots that target Americans.
“In addition, the Department of Defense continues to capitalize on the valuable contributions Indiana makes to support our troops. The bills funds the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV) modernization program as well as provide funding for our Indiana Guard and Reserve forces. As Hoosier guardsmen continue to serve our country, it’s imperative they have dependable equipment made in Mishawaka.
“This year’s legislation enables us to protect our troops by enhancing military readiness and prioritizing the well-being of our troops, while still rationally utilizing defense funds.”
The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
HMMWVs have been a stronghold in the military for years. They are fully assembled at a Mishawaka assembly plant, in addition to several other models and equipment used by the Armed Forces.
