Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) Commits to Fighting for a Final NDAA Bill that Prioritizes National Security and Support for Central New York and the Mohawk Valley Over[...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following efforts by Congressional Republicans to add poison pill amendments to the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) today voted to continue work on this critical legislation to strengthen national security and support critical industries in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley, rather than advance a partisan bill that prioritizes partisan politics over military readiness.

Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) said, "Every year, Congress comes together in a bipartisan manner to advance the NDAA and ensures our Armed Forces have the tools they need to protect U.S. national security, invests in innovation, and supportsmilitary families and veterans. Unfortunately, Congressional Republicans chose to take the bipartisan bill that passed out of committee and amend it in a manner that strips rights away from servicemembers and weakens America's military in the face of growing global challenges. The NDAA is too important for partisan politics, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to ensure the FY26 NDAA supports the members of our military and strengthens our national security before voting to advance this critical measure."

The NDAA is annual legislation passed by Congress to authorize defense-related activities across the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. Congress has acted in a bipartisan manner for 64 years to pass an annual NDAA, which establishes defense policies and supports efforts to strengthen U.S. national and economic security.

During debate over the FY26 NDAA, Congressman Mannion filed five amendments to strengthen U.S. national security while supporting Central New York and the Mohawk Valley's defense industries, supply chains, communities, and good-paying jobs. While Congressional Republicans failed to include meaningful amendments offered by Congressman Mannion and his colleagues to address critical issues during floor debate, the Congressman will continue to fight for these important priorities as debate over the FY26 NDAA continues in the U.S. Senate and in conference.

Mannion's five amendments, as filed, are:

Amendment #1126- Development and Integration of Combat Operations Battlefield Radar (COBRA): Establishes a Department of Defense program to develop and integrate smart radar systems onto U.S. Army ground vehicles, enhancing their ability to detect and respond to aerial threats like drones. This program is a top priority for SRC Inc., headquartered in Central New York.

Amendment #1128- Next Mission Act: Launches a pilot program to expand career and learning opportunities for transitioning service members and their spouses. This includes support for free, high-quality training programs like Onward to Opportunity at Syracuse University's Institute for Veterans and Military Families.

Amendment #1130- U.S. Made Dinnerware/Flatware DoD Provision: Permanently requires the Department of Defense to source all stainless dinnerware from U.S.-based manufacturers, ensuring long-term stability for Sherrill Manufacturing in Oneida County and supporting American jobs.

Amendment #1131- Domestic Gallium Production/Supply Chain: Strengthens national security by supporting domestic refining of gallium, a critical material for semiconductors, radar, and medical technologies. This amendment will help companies like Indium Corporation secure supply chains, foster innovation, and create local jobs.

Amendment #1147- Supporting Community Organizations in Veteran Support Services: Recognizes the vital role community organizations-such as Clear Path for Veterans-play in supporting veterans, service members, and military families, and calls on federal agencies to strengthen collaboration with these organizations.

The U.S. Senate is expected to put its version of the FY26 NDAA forward in the coming weeks, and a final, conferenced product is expected to come before both houses for consideration before the end of the year.

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