Congressman John Carter (R-TX31) issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2685, the fiscal year 2016 (FY16) Defense Appropriations Act which funds critical national security needs, military operations, and health and quality of life programs for the men and women of our Armed Forces and their families.

“Today, I was pleased to vote in support of our military and their families, our nations security, and our freedoms by supporting the FY16 Defense Appropriations Act. My colleagues and I upheld our oath of office by voting to ‘support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic’ by passing this legislation. It ensures that we properly fund our warfighters, their families, and any current or future missions that provide for the common defense of our Nation.

“Specifically, this bill provides for the Global War on Terror to track down, root out and defeat terrorist; funds our military personnel and pay providing a 2.3 percent pay raise for our military; secures defense health and military family programs including the Defenses Health Program to provide healthcare to our troops, their families, and retirees; and, it funds the equipment necessary to support our troops and military missions, while also providing for research and development keeping America on the forefront of innovation to combat current and future threats.

“During the amendment process, I also voted three times to ensure that known terrorists are not released from Guantanamo Bay and that they are kept far away from American soil. I urge the Senate to take up the House passed bill and send it directly to the President’s desk for his timely approval.”

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.