Washington, D.C. – Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act of 2021.
“Providing for the common defense is one of Congress’ constitutional duties,” said Burgess. “Today, Congress came together with bipartisan support to do just that.
“This bill is not perfect. There should be no funding restrictions on securing our southern border and supporting the front line officers who defend it. Also, we should not be allowing the Department of Defense to undermine the management of commercial spectrum by the Federal Communications Commission.
“This bill does help our country keep its competitive edge against China and Russia in developing emerging technologies. It supports our troops by providing them with a pay increase. It will ensure that the Department of Defense has the necessary tools to protect our Armed Forces against this Coronavirus. Finally, it fully funds nuclear modernization programs.
“This bill reflects decades of bipartisan work. Our country must be united on all fronts but especially the protection of our nation and our defenders. I appreciate the work done by fellow Texan Mac Thornberry to ensure its passage.”
