Senate Passes NDAA, Establishing a Conflict with House Bill
The Senate has passed its version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), setting up a clash with the House of Representatives over controversial amendments. The Democratic-controlled Senate passed the fiscal 2024 NDAA, which authorizes $886 billion in spending, with strong support from both Democrats and Republicans. Meanwhile, the Republican-led House passed its own version of the bill, including amendments that eliminate abortion rights and diversity protections. The provisions in the House bill are unlikely to become law, according to Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer. The NDAA, which is passed annually, covers a range of defense policies, including troop pay raises, purchases of military equipment, and support for Ukraine. In addition to the abortion and diversity amendments, the Senate passed several of its own amendments focused on addressing competition with China. The next step is for members from both chambers to negotiate a compromise bill that must then pass both the House and Senate before it can be sent to President Joe Biden for approval or veto.
