Chairwoman McClain Supports Strong National Defense, Delivers Wins for Michigan in FY26 House Defense Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON-House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) today proudly voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill, highlighting key provisions that strengthen America's military, support service members and their families, end wasteful spending, and secure critical wins for Michigan's economy and defense industry.

"This bill is a win for America and a win for Michigan," Chairwoman McClain said. "It strengthens our national security, puts America's warfighters and their families first, and ensures our defense dollars are spent wisely. I was proud to secure direct investments in Michigan that will create high-skill jobs, grow our manufacturing base, and protect the integrity of U.S. military equipment from foreign threats. We must keep America's fighting force the most superior in the world."

Key provisions are highlighted below:

Supporting Our Service Members and Families
The bill provides a 3.8 percent pay raise for all service members effective January 1, 2026, and continues the FY25 historic pay increases for junior enlisted troops-ensuring that America's warfighters and their families are properly supported.

Ending Woke and Wasteful Spending
The legislation takes decisive action to restore focus and accountability at the Department of Defense by:

• Codifying President Trump's executive orders ending DEI programming.
• Banning taxpayer funding for sex-change surgeries, abortion-related travel, drag shows, and COVID-related mandates.
• Strengthening management and coordination at the Pentagon by codifying the Department of Government Efficiency reforms.

Strengthening National Defense and the Golden Dome Initiative
With approximately $13 billion committed to the Golden Dome for America initiative, the bill funds:

• $8.8 billion for the Missile Defense Agency.
• $4.1 billion for U.S. Space Force capabilities to support integrated missile defense systems.

Cracking Down on International Drug Trafficking
The bill includes $1.15 billion for counter-drug programs to help dismantle international networks responsible for the trafficking and production of dangerous narcotics.

Major Wins for Michigan
Chairwoman McClain fought to include key amendments and funding increases that benefit Michigan's workforce, innovation, and national security posture:

• $3 million to invest in next-generation laser serialization equipment-an essential capability to secure and track U.S. military assets. This amendment counters Chinese dumping of inferior equipment and strengthens the domestic industrial base, protecting national security and supporting high-paying engineering and manufacturing jobs in rural Michigan.
• $11.9 million to support development of the Silent Watch Auxiliary Power Unit, enhancing tactical vehicle capabilities.
• Procurement of three additional F-15EX aircraft to bolster air dominance at Selfridge Air National Guard Base and support American aerospace jobs.
• $100 million for Army National Guard HMMWV modernization, upgrading aging vehicles for troops in the field-including Michigan-based Guard units.
• $383.9 million for Stryker combat vehicle upgrades, ensuring U.S. forces remain mobile, protected, and mission ready.