PHOTO: On NDAA Conference Committee, Sherrill Pushes for Bipartisan Efforts to Strengthen U.S. National Security and Protect Service Members

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Navy veteran and member of the House Armed Services Committee, continued her advocacy as an appointee to the bicameral National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conference committee.

“I’ve worked throughout the year and on the conference committee to ensure the National Defense Authorization Act supports our service members and military families, strengthens our national security, and ensures our armed forces are able to remain the premier 21st century fighting force. I am encouraged by the commitment to bipartisanship and compromise shown at this week’s bicameral meeting. I have fought hard to ensure that the final, conferenced legislation reflects the House Armed Services Committee's bipartisan work to best support our troops and has blocked the amendments added by right-wing extremists, including a ban on reimbursements for abortion care-related travel and attacks on the LGBTQ community. As a veteran who served during “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell,” I refuse to allow the NDAA to set our military back,” said Rep. Sherrill.

Earlier this year, House leadership appointed Sherrill to the bipartisan, bicameral conference committee tasked with negotiating the final text of the bill that supports men and women in uniform, sets our national security priorities, and bolsters New Jersey’s economy.

On the House Armed Services Committee, Sherrill helped advance the NDAA with an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 58-1. However, during its consideration on the House Floor, House Republicans inserted extreme provisions to the bill, including limitations to service women’s access to abortion care, mental health services, diversity efforts, and more. In August, the Senate passedits own version of the NDAA, which mirrored the goals and bipartisanship of the original House bill. 

The NDAA conference report will soon return to the House for final approval before heading to the President’s desk for signature. 

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