Washington, DC, Jun 20, 2006 -

Representative John Carter (TX-31) today voted in favor of a bill that will provide funding for critical defense priorities, including a 2.2 percent military pay raise and enhanced force protection gear. H.R. 5631, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2007 also funds operation and maintenance, research and development, and emergency wartime appropriation needs.

This fiscally responsible bill contains more than $1 billion less in earmarks than last year’s Defense Appropriations bill and $2.7 billion less than last year’s conference report.

“Funding our defense priorities is essential to keeping our soldiers protected and our nation secure. This bill ensures that our service men and women have the resources needed to successfully fight the global war on terror and defend America,” Congressman Carter said. “I am proud to represent the brave men and women stationed at Fort Hood, and will continue to see that our troops receive the support they need to carry out their mission.”

Among other things, the Department of Defense Appropriations bill will provide the following:

• $1.5 billion to develop improvised explosive device countermeasures;
• An additional $725 million for personnel force protection items, including body armor;
• Full funding for the 2.2 percent military pay raise, effective Jan. 1, 2007; and
• $500 million above the president’s request for National Guard equipment needs.

• Military Personnel - $84.9 billion
• Operation and Maintenance - $120.5 billion
• Procurement - $81.8 billion
• Research, Development, Test and Evaluation - $75.3 billion
• Revolving and Management Funds - $2.4 billion
• Emergency Wartime Appropriations - $50.0 billion