Committee OK's proposed DoD bill

A U.S. House Appropriations subcommittee approved a proposed FY 2020 defense funding bill - one of four across Congress - on May 15 that would cover the cost of a 3.1 percent military pay raise – possibly the largest since 2010. The bill would provide $690.2B for the Defense Department - $8B less than the President’s request, but $15.8B more than the FY-19 DoD budget. It also calls for 600 fewer active duty troops; and 16,900 from the reserves. Programs that may see increases next year include 90 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters; 73 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters; and 16 C-130J aircraft. The bill would fund 11 ships, including three DDG-51 guided missile destroyers, two submarines, one FFG frigate, an aircraft carrier, two fleet oilers and two towing, salvage and rescue ships. There’s also a $1.26B emphasis on environmental cleanup of military and former base sites for restoration, removal of unsafe property and debris, and hazardous waste disposal. (Read: Tyndall AFB, Fla. and Offutt AFB, Neb.) (Source: Military.com 05/15/19) Important Note: Several programs would be bolstered if the legislation passes as written, which isn't likely since it will be one of four that ultimately guide future defense spending: The Senate Appropriations Committee, and Senate and House Armed Services committees.