Congressman John Carter (R-TX31) issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2016, which fully funds America’s troops with the resources and support they need to defend our country.

“America’s uniformed men and women deserve the best support, funding and resources possible to carry out their mission to keep America safe. Today, I voted to ensure that our armed forces have the tools they need to be agile, efficient, ready and lethal in this era of unprecedented threat and uncertainty.”

“I am also pleased to announce that an amendment I proposed was included within the NDAA to allow service members to conceal carry on military bases. After the tragedies at Ft. Hood, I saw the need to empower base commanders to decide what policy is best for their base and who should carry a concealed weapon for personal or force protection.  I have the utmost confidence in our seniormilitary leadership and the soldiers whoserve and trust they will use this new authority to improve security and prevent future tragedies.”

“Today marks the 54^th year in a row that the NDAA has been passed and shows Congress’ continued unparalleled support for our national defense and the men and women in uniform that serve to protect it.”

Rep. Carter represents Texas District 31, which includes Fort Hood, the largest military installation in the free world. He serves as Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, is on the Subcommittee for Commerce, Justice and Science and the Defense Subcommittee. 

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