WASHINGTON — The U.S. House of Representatives passed a sweeping $900 billion defense policy bill on Wednesday, authorizing military pay raises, overhauls in weapons procurement, and expanded congressional oversight of the Pentagon. The legislation, passed by a 312-112 vote, represents one of the largest annual National Defense Authorization Acts (NDAA) in recent history.

Troop Pay Raises and Military Base Improvements

A key provision in the bill provides a 3.8% pay raise for many service members, marking the largest increase in years. The legislation also authorizes significant funding for housing and facility improvements on military bases across the country. These measures are designed to improve the quality of life for U.S. troops and their families.

Weapons Acquisition Reform

The NDAA introduces sweeping reforms to the Pentagon’s weapons procurement system. The bill emphasizes speed and efficiency after years of delays by defense contractors, a priority highlighted by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Rep. Adam Smith, the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, called the reforms “the most ambitious swing at acquisition reform that we’ve taken.”

Congressional Oversight and Accountability

The bill strengthens Congress’s oversight powers over the Pentagon. Lawmakers included provisions requiring the Department of Defense to provide unedited video footage and operational details from U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats near Venezuela. The legislation also allows Congress to review orders and expenditures related to these operations, reflecting concerns over accountability under Secretary Hegseth and the Trump administration.

Commitment to Allies Abroad

The NDAA reinforces U.S. commitments to key allies, particularly in Europe and South Korea. The bill mandates a minimum of 76,000 troops remain stationed in Europe, with congressional consultation required for any withdrawals. It also allocates $400 million annually over the next two years to produce weapons for Ukraine, reflecting ongoing U.S. support against Russian aggression. In South Korea, the bill sets the minimum U.S. troop presence at 28,500, ensuring continued military readiness on the Korean Peninsula.

Cuts to Climate and Diversity Programs

In line with the Trump administration’s priorities, the bill reduces funding for climate change initiatives by $1.6 billion and eliminates $40 million in diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, including the position of chief diversity officer. Critics argue these cuts undermine efforts to address climate threats to military infrastructure and reduce inclusivity in the armed forces.

Iraq War Authorization Repeal and Syria Sanctions

The NDAA formally repeals the 2003 Iraq War authorization, preventing future misuse of outdated wartime powers. It also permanently lifts certain U.S. sanctions on Syria that were originally imposed in 2019, a move intended to encourage foreign investment in the country’s post-conflict reconstruction.

Controversies and Omissions

Some Democrats criticized House Speaker Mike Johnson for removing a provision to expand in vitro fertilization (IVF) coverage for active-duty personnel, which had been included in earlier versions of the bill. Additionally, several senators raised concerns about the bill’s failure to restrict military flights over Washington, following a midair collision earlier this year that killed 67 people.

Next Steps

The bill now moves to the Senate, where leaders are working to pass the legislation before Congress adjourns for the holiday break. Lawmakers anticipate further negotiations over oversight provisions, funding allocations, and international commitments.