San Antonio Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted to advance the FY24 Defense Appropriations bill. The Defense Appropriations package includes several priorities secured by Congressman Gonzales that will strengthen Department of Defense (DOD) operations across Texas’ 23rd Congressional District. Over $158 million (a $40 million increase from FY23 funding levels) in funding will go toward the Defense Community Infrastructure Program. This program will assist local and state governments in addressing infrastructure deficiencies in communities that support military installations. Additionally, Congressman Gonzales secured three separate provisions that will assess cybersecurity risks to the U.S. government that stem from the purchase and use of commercial off-the-shelf information technology from companies with connections to China’s military and cyber espionage programs, provide updates regarding efforts to address the pilot shortfall within the Air Force to Congress, and encourage remediation efforts to minimize the risk of exposure to PFAS on military bases.

“A well-funded military is key to bolstering our national security priorities. As a 20-year Navy veteran, I am fully committed to ensuring our nation has every resource available to strengthen our military capabilities both at home and abroad,” said Congressman Gonzales. “I was proud to advance initiatives that will enhance our nation’s defense capabilities through the FY24 Defense Appropriations bill. Many of the provisions included in this bill will have a direct impact on military communities throughout South and West Texas.”

The House Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Defense has jurisdiction over the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Intelligence Community, including the Military Services, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and National Security Agency (NSA). Click here for a full summary of the bill.

Original source can be found here.