Pontiac Times

House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain of Michigan has voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill. The bill aims to enhance national security, support military personnel and their families, reduce unnecessary spending, and provide economic benefits for Michigan's defense industry.

“This bill is a win for America and a win for Michigan,” stated Chairwoman McClain. “It strengthens our national security, puts America’s warfighters and their families first, and ensures our defense dollars are spent wisely."

The legislation includes several key provisions such as a 3.8 percent pay raise for all service members starting January 1, 2026. It also continues the historic pay increases from FY25 for junior enlisted troops.

The bill targets what it calls "woke and wasteful spending" by implementing measures like ending DEI programming per President Trump’s executive orders and banning taxpayer funding for specific surgeries and mandates.

Approximately $13 billion is allocated to the Golden Dome Initiative, which funds $8.8 billion for the Missile Defense Agency and $4.1 billion for U.S. Space Force capabilities.

Efforts to combat international drug trafficking are supported with $1.15 billion allocated to counter-drug programs aimed at dismantling narcotics networks.

Chairwoman McClain highlighted significant gains for Michigan including $3 million investment in laser serialization equipment to secure U.S. military assets against foreign threats, $11.9 million for Silent Watch Auxiliary Power Unit development, procurement of three additional F-15EX aircraft at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, $100 million for Army National Guard vehicle modernization, and $383.9 million for Stryker combat vehicle upgrades.