The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by a vote of 217-199. The bill includes a 19.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers, a 4.5% raise for all service members, and significant funding for childcare and housing improvements. Despite passing the House Armed Services Committee with strong bipartisan support, the bill has sparked controversy due to the inclusion of amendments that restrict abortion access and transgender medical care, and eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. House Democrats have largely opposed the bill, criticizing it for being filled with partisan provisions. The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
