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Five Hassan-Led Priorities Become Law as Part of Annual Defense Bill

WASHINGTON – President Joe Biden today signed into law the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022, which includes key priorities Senator Maggie Hassan introduced and championed to protect the national security of Granite Staters and all Americans.

 

“We are at an inflection point right now, combating a whole new host of threats to our national security at home and abroad. This year’s defense bill will help ensure that we are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow, and I’m very glad I was able to secure the inclusion of a number of my key priorities in this year’s bill,” said Senator Hassan. “From cyberattacks to fentanyl trafficking, Granite Staters have seen firsthand how threats from far away can impact us right here at home, and this bill takes meaningful action to address those threats.”

“I’m also thrilled to see the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Act be signed into law as part of this package. Our National Mall is a representation of our country’s history - the challenges we have faced and the sacrifices we have made for freedom. To not have a memorial to the brave men and women who fought in the Global War on Terrorism is inexcusable, and an injustice to our service members and their families who have given so much,” added Senator Hassan. “Today, that changes. I am so honored to have helped lead this effort with Senator Ernst and to see this bill signed into law. It is a testament to the service members and their families who have given so much to their country, and their continued advocacy for this memorial’s rightful place on our National Mall.” 

Key Measures Introduced by Senator Hassan:

  • Combating Fentanyl Trafficking: Senators Hassan and Pat Toomey‘s (R-PA) amendment to help stop the influx of illegal fentanyl into the United States from drug traffickers outside the United States, including China. 
  • Strengthening Cybersecurity: Bipartisan amendment introduced by Senators Hassan and John Cornyn (R-TX) to ensure that the National Guard can help state and local governments and businesses improve their cybersecurity.
  • Establishing a Global War on Terrorism Memorial: Senators Hassan and Joni Ernst’s (R-IA) bipartisan amendment to establish a memorial to those who have served in the Global War on Terrorism on the National Mall. 
  • Addressing Gender Inequities in the Military: Senators Hassan and Ernst’s bipartisan amendment to eliminate the “pink tax” on women’s uniforms in the military and address out-of-pocket expenses service members pay for uniforms.
  • Promoting Innovative Technologies and Outcompeting China: An amendment includes elements of a bill introduced by Senators Hassan and John Thune (R-SD) to encourage quantum research efforts that are critical to national security and economic growth. 

 

Support for NH Military Installations: 

  • $475 million to support the Multi-Mission Dry Dock project at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
  • Funding for the procurement of 2 Virginia-class submarines, which are maintained and repaired by the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
  • $130 million for industrial base development and expansion in support of the Virginia-class and Columbia-class shipbuilding programs.
  • Increased funding to address PFAS contamination in military communities and continue PFAS health impact study.

 

Strengthening Our Military and National Security:

  • A 2.7 percent pay raise for U.S. service members. 
  • Strengthens the Department of Defense’s suicide prevention efforts through a measure cosponsored by Senators Hassan and Shaheen. 
  • Critical provisions to counter Russia and China, including a measure supported by Senator Hassan to counter the rise of Russia and China by strengthening military operations in the Arctic.
    • Also includes measures to strengthen U.S. supply chains and prohibit Department of Defense procurement of products produced with Uyghur forced labor.

 

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