Washington, D.C. – Congressman Frank Lucas today made the following statement after the United States House of Representatives voted for passage of H.R. 2397, the Department of Defense (DoD) Appropriations Act of 2014. This legislation passed the House today with a 315 to 109 vote.

“I am pleased the DoD Appropriations Act passed the House today,” said Lucas. “This legislation appropriates necessary funding for our nation’s men and women in uniform and provides for the common defense of our country. It is of utmost importance that we invest in our national security to ensure that we continue to provide the strongest Armed Forces worldwide.”

“As we continue to fight a war in Afghanistan, it is crucial that we provide our Military with the tools they need to accomplish our long-term goal of fighting terrorism. I am proud this legislation appropriates the resources needed to meet this purpose.

 “Additionally, this legislation prohibits funding for transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay to the U.S. territories. It is important that we keep dangerous terrorists in Guantanamo to ensure the safety of all American citizens.”

“Lastly, I am pleased this legislation fully funds the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Programs to help make certain acts of sexual assault are addressed and abolished in our Military. We must not ever allow these violent acts of crime to take place.

“This legislation is crucial to our country, and it is my hope the DoD Appropriations will be passed by the Senate and sent to President Obama’s Desk for his signature.”

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