House Passes Begich’s Bill Strengthening National Defense and Securing Alaska’s Strategic Role

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Dec. 9, 2025 - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5131, the Public Lands Military Readiness Act of 2025, legislation led by Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) to extend critical military land withdrawals in Alaska, New Mexico, and California for 25 years and provide long-term certainty for America's most strategic training and testing ranges. Passage of H.R. 5131 marks the seventh bill Congressman Begich has successfully advanced through the House during the 119th Congress.

"Alaska is the tip of the spear for America's defense. Our training ranges in Alaska and across the country are indispensable for Arctic readiness and missile defense," said Congressman Begich. "This legislation ensures our servicemen and women have uninterrupted access to the world-class training spaces they need to remain the strongest fighting force on earth. By extending these land withdrawals, we are carrying out the President's mission of peace through strength and giving our military the certainty and support required to counter emerging threats. I am grateful for the broad bipartisan support behind this bill and proud to see it pass the House."

"The Public Lands Military Readiness Act of 2025 strengthens U.S. national security by ensuring our military retains access to some of our most critical, strategic training ranges. This legislation gives our military the space and stability necessary to prepare for emerging threats while maintaining responsible stewardship of federal lands. I commend Representative Begich for his leadership on this critical national defense priority, which directly benefits Alaska and the entire nation," said Chairman Bruce Westerman.

BACKGROUND:

The Public Lands Military Readiness Act extends military land withdrawals for 25 years at Fort Greely and Fort Wainwright in Alaska, McGregor Range at Fort Bliss in New Mexico, and Fort Irwin in California, ensuring uninterrupted access through 2051. The bill strengthens military readiness by preserving premier joint training ranges essential for Arctic operations, missile defense testing, live-fire exercises, and Indo-Pacific preparedness.

It also promotes good governance by updating and correcting outdated federal land descriptions, improving transparency, and preventing costly legal or administrative conflicts. Finally, the legislation reinforces Alaska's strategic role as a central hub for Arctic and Pacific defense operations. Extending these withdrawals ensures that the U.S. military can continue training in advanced, realistic environments that prepare them for any challenge.

H.R. 5131 now heads to the Senate for consideration.

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