The White House has expressed its support for the final legislation, with House and Senate negotiators reaching an agreement to remove contentious provisions that were objectionable to President Biden and Democrats. These provisions included a proposal from House Republicans to revoke the Pentagon’s abortion travel policy. Democrats view this as a victory, as they were successful in removing several proposals, such as amendments targeting medical treatment coverage for transgender troops and Pentagon diversity programs.
Although the abortion policy, which covers the costs of troops traveling for reproductive care, remains in place, Republicans are expected to challenge it again in the future. Most GOP lawmakers oppose this policy, but the Senate avoided addressing the issue in its bill to maintain bipartisan support. However, it is worth noting that Senator Tommy Tuberville’s blockade of military promotions, which he imposed for ten months, was finally lifted in December. This blockade was related to the abortion policy.
Senate and House Republicans celebrated conservative wins in the legislation, including a pay cap and hiring freeze on defense employees involved in diversity programs, a ban on unapproved flags like the pride flag, and requirements for military services to review discharges of troops who refuse to get the Covid vaccine. Additionally, the Pentagon is mandated to dispose of unused materials from the border wall.
While the abortion concession disappointed many conservatives, the bill also includes a controversial four-month extension of surveillance authorities under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows for the collection of communication from foreigners. This provision faced opposition from several GOP hardliners in the House, and lawmakers intend to debate an overhaul of the program in the near future.
The legislation also establishes that the president cannot unilaterally withdraw the United States from NATO. Instead, a two-thirds vote from the Senate is required before any administration can leave the alliance. Furthermore, the bill authorizes $300 million for the Pentagon to continue arming Ukraine.
In terms of funding, lawmakers have matched President Biden’s request of $886 billion. However, it is important to note that the legislation only authorizes funding and does not allocate any money. A full fiscal 2024 appropriations bill must still be enacted by Congress when it reconvenes early next year. Currently, the Pentagon is funded through a stopgap measure that will last until February 2.,
On December 30, 2021, President Joe Biden signed a defense policy bill that has sparked controversy due to the extension of a controversial spying program. The bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022, allows the continuation of the National Security Agency’s (NSA) warrantless surveillance of Americans’ communications. This program, established under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), has been criticized for infringing on privacy rights and lacking sufficient oversight. While proponents argue that these surveillance measures are crucial for national security, opponents express concerns about potential abuse and the erosion of civil liberties. The signing of this bill has reignited the ongoing debate surrounding the balance between security and privacy in the United States.
