Washington, D.C. – Congressman Frank Lucas (R-OK3) today made the following statement after the United States House of Representatives passed H.R. 1960, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2014. This is the fifty-second consecutive NDAA, and it will provide necessary authorities and funding for America’s military.

“After months of hard work and preparation from the House Armed Services Committee,” said Lucas, “I am pleased the FY2014 NDAA passed the House today and fulfills its primary constitutional responsibility of providing for the common defense of the United States.

“H.R. 1960 requires that special attention is given to rapid response teams and structure changes are forced that will help the military better respond to attacks like Benghazi, should a similar attack ever occur again. It is important that our military is always adequately prepared to respond to terrorist attacks.

“Additionally, the FY2014 NDAA will address the issue of sexual assault in the military by establishing minimum sentencing guidelines for any service members found guilty of sexual assault. 

“This legislation also maintains the prohibition against the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo bay to the U.S. or to countries with confirmed cases of transferred detainees returning to terrorism.

“I am pleased the NDAA addresses these important issues and accomplishes the goal of strengthening our national security. It is my hope that this legislation will be passed by the Senate and sent to the President’s desk for his signature.”

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