WASHINGTON — Congressman Allen West, R-Plantation, has been named a member of the National Defense Authorization Act Conference. The select group from the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives will craft the final provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2012. The legislation provides policy for the Department of Defense and armed services.
“It is an honor to be a member of the conference setting policies for the Department of Defense to be successful in keeping our country safe,” West said. "As a 22-year United States Army Veteran, I look forward to sharing my insight on what I believe is most important in this bill — a bill that will ultimately determine the future of our armed services."
House Armed Services Committee Chairman Howard “Buck” McKeon said he specifically chose Rep. West because his insights have been “extremely valuable” to the committee this past year.
“I am honored to have Allen at my side as we close out the 50th NDAA,” McKeon said. “Over the next few days, the House and Senate will have to work through several important issues. I know Congressman West will be an asset as we put together the best possible legislation for our men and women in uniform.”
Rep. West sponsored H.R. 1246 that passed the House earlier this year, cutting 10 percent of the Defense printing budget, generating nearly $180 million in savings through fiscal 2016.
The NDAA also includes additional legislation Rep. West proposed, including a resolution to reduce financing for Defense studies, analysis and evaluations by 10 percent, to save $24 million in fiscal 2012 and return up to $120 million to the treasury through fiscal 2016. Also, a resolution to restrict payout of annual nationwide adjustment and locality pay for below satisfactory workers, to generate approximately $21 million in savings while increasing workforce productivity, with $80 million in savings through fiscal 2016.
“It is important the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act include the cuts to wasteful defense spending I proposed,” West said. “It is also just as important that the NDAA protect essential Defense programs. I am confident my 22 years in the United States Army will provide insight to the conference.”
Photo: Allen West
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