House National Defense Authorization Act annual spending package includes language from two of Cartwright’s Bills

U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (D-PA-08) joined his House colleagues in passing the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes language from two of his bills: the Military Spouse Job Continuity Act and the Ukraine Asset Forfeiture Transfer Authority Act.

The Military Spouse Job Continuity Act permanently extends a $1,000 reimbursement to military spouses who are forced to pay fees to transfer a professional license or certification due to a Permanent Change of Station.

The Ukraine Asset Forfeiture Transfer Authority Act streamlines the seizure of ill-begotten Russian assets to financially benefit Ukraine.

Overall, the national defense bill supports key salary improvements for service members and their families - including a 4.6 percent pay raise - while also investing in future capabilities that will allow the United States to confront challenges at home or abroad.

Passed annually by Congress since 1961, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense, allowing the Armed Forces to pay, train and equip U.S. servicemembers; support America’s allies around the world; and carry out essential national security operations.

“When we support servicemembers and their families, we’re investing in America’s national security,” said Cartwright. “This legislation will honor the heroism of Northeast Pennsylvania military families while maintaining our commitment to supporting our allies abroad. I’m proud to see language from my bills included.”

Priorities in this year’s NDAA include:

Key pay increases for service members and their families, in addition to the 4.6 percent pay raise, including funding for the DoD to increase the basic allowance for housing, an increase in the maximum allowable income to receive the Basic Needs Allowance, and an additional $210 million for commissary funding.

New investments in science and technology competitiveness for next-generation capabilities in hypersonics, electronic warfare, artificial intelligence.

Support for first responders by enacting the Federal Firefighters Fairness Act to ease firefighters’ access to workers’ compensation.

This bipartisan, bicameral legislation passed the House by a vote of 350-80. The NDAA passed in the Senate as an $858 billion defense act. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill.