Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), to fund and support our military, their families, and key national security priorities.
"The FY2026 NDAA strengthens our national security, gives the men and women serving our nation the resources they need, and enhances our ability to counter the malign actions of bad actors around the globe," said Rep. LaHood. "With ever-evolving threats and foreign adversaries working every day to undermine the United States, this bill makes certain our military and intelligence community are equipped with the tools they need to handle any threat. I was proud to vote for this bill and I will continue to support the brave servicemembers who safeguard our freedoms."
Background:
The bill codifies 15 of President Trump's Executive Orders focused on strengthening our military and authorizes $900 billion for national defense to provide our troops with the tools and resources they need to remain the world's premier fighting force. It includes provisions to counter the hostile actions of our adversaries, invest in cutting edge technology to ensure military preparedness, and improve the quality of life for our servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise and improved benefits for military families.
The NDAA also includes the Fiscal Year 2026 Intelligence Authorization Act, which authorizes funds to support our Intelligence Community, broaden Congressional oversight, protect the U.S. from counterintelligence threats, and expedites the Intelligence Community’s adoption and implementation of emerging technologies.
Rep. LaHood's Priorities included the FY2026 NDAA:
- Advanced AI Security Readiness Act
- Requires the Director of the National Security Agency to develop guidance to protect artificial intelligence (AI) technology from adversaries by engaging with AI developers and leveraging industry expertise to address vulnerabilities and threats.
- The BIOSECURE Act
- Prevents U.S. federal funds from supporting biotechnology companies tied to foreign adversaries.
- The Outbound Investment Transparency Act
- Creates targeted restrictions for outbound U.S. investments that would fund military and advanced technology capabilities of foreign adversaries.
Congressman LaHood also supported provisions to authorize local, state, and federal agencies, including the DHS and DOJ, with new authority to take counter-drone measures for large scale public gatherings or events, critical infrastructure, and correctional facilities.
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