The Senate is now considering its version of the annual defense policy bill after the House passed a highly controversial and partisan version. The Senate must reconcile its National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with the House’s by the end of September. The Senate bill is expected to be less partisan, but Republicans may still try to include conservative measures during floor debate.
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is urging both parties to work together and avoid amendments that could hinder the bill’s passage. The Senate bill has already passed a procedural vote and senators have begun inserting uncontroversial amendments. Negotiations between Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will determine votes on more controversial proposals.
The House version of the bill included amendments on abortion access, Pentagon diversity programs, and medical care for transgender service members. Senate lawmakers have expressed concerns about these amendments and their impact on the bill. Senators will also consider amendments on artificial intelligence, China competitiveness, and sanctions against China for fentanyl production.
Senators are currently working on a smaller manager’s package that includes additional amendments, but the size of this package is still uncertain. Some topics that may come up for votes include Pentagon travel reimbursement for abortions, Pentagon diversity initiatives, Ukraine aid, and oversight for assistance to Kyiv.
Lawmakers have differing views on the fate of the bill if controversial measures are included. The White House has not provided detailed views on the Senate bill yet. Senate Armed Services Chairman Jack Reed believes it will be challenging to support the bill if it hampers abortion access and diversity initiatives.
Despite these challenges, McConnell predicts that the NDAA will pass with strong bipartisan support once the amendment process is complete.