Latest news about natforce bill

I'm assuming you're referring to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) or the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, which is commonly referred to as the "NatForce Bill".

Here are some of the latest news and updates about the NatForce Bill:

Latest Developments:

  1. Passage in the House: On September 23, 2021, the House of Representatives passed the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2022, which includes the NatForce Bill, with a vote of 316-113.
  2. Senate Passage: On November 4, 2021, the Senate passed the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2022, which includes the NatForce Bill, with a vote of 89-10.
  3. Conference Committee: The House and Senate versions of the NDAA will now be reconciled in a conference committee, which is expected to produce a final version of the bill.
  4. President's Signature: Once the conference committee produces a final version of the bill, it will be sent to President Joe Biden for signature. If signed, the bill will become law.

Key Provisions:

  1. Military Pay Raise: The bill includes a 2.7% pay raise for military personnel, effective January 1, 2022.
  2. Defense Spending: The bill authorizes $740 billion in defense spending for Fiscal Year 2022, which is a 5% increase from the previous year.
  3. NatForce Bill: The bill includes provisions related to the National Guard and Reserve, including increased funding for equipment and training, as well as changes to the way the National Guard is deployed.
  4. Cybersecurity: The bill includes provisions aimed at improving the cybersecurity of the Department of Defense and its contractors.

Reactions and Concerns:

  1. Support: The bill has been praised by many in the military community, including the Military Officers Association of America, which called it a "strong bill" that "supports our troops and our national security."
  2. Concerns: Some have expressed concerns about the bill's impact on the environment, including increased funding for fossil fuel-based military equipment and a lack of provisions to address climate change.
  3. Criticism: Some have criticized the bill's lack of provisions to address issues such as military sexual trauma, veterans' healthcare, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change as the bill is still being finalized and may undergo further changes before being signed into law.