Kentuckiana Times

On Friday, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. This legislation provides a pay raise for servicemembers, counters Chinese aggression, enhances military lethality, funds the deployment of the National Guard to the southern border, and implements measures to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse at the Pentagon.

Congresswoman Houchin released the following statement: "I’m proud to announce that the National Defense Authorization Act passed in the House," said Congresswoman Houchin. "This crucial legislation ensures our armed forces have the resources they need to protect our nation. For the Ninth District, this means additional investments in our local defense industries and high-quality jobs. Thank you to all of our brave men and women who selflessly serve our great country!"

In addition to her support for the overall bill, Congresswoman Houchin successfully included an amendment to the NDAA focused on child literacy at Department of Defense schools. This amendment mandates that schools notify parents if their child is not reading at grade-level proficiency by the end of third grade. The goal is to ensure that parents, especially those in the military who face unique challenges, are informed about their child's academic progress and can take timely action to support their education.

"Military parents already balance so much, and they deserve to know when their children are struggling academically," said Congresswoman Houchin. "This amendment promotes literacy among military children and keeps parents informed about their child's success in school."

Congresswoman Houchin is dedicated to maintaining a strong, well-supported military while upholding her commitment to national security.