A provision in the must-pass defense measure would block certain military medical care options for transgender youth. The Air Force currently bars airmen and guardians from growing beards, except for those who have a shaving waiver for medical or religious reasons. After lawmakers agreed to plans to boost pay for junior enlisted troops, they are now shifting focus to more senior enlisted members. Troops E-4 and below will see a 14.5% pay raise under a deal reached by congressional negotiators this week. In a letter to Senate leaders, House lawmakers said the military must enact more quality-of-life reforms to ensure the health of troops and their families. An estimated 325,000 military families are struggling with having enough food each week. The House-passed draft of the authorization bill called for pay raises up to 19.5% for troops ranked E-4 and below. The Republican nominee for president said he will push for a dedicated National Guard branch for space missions if he is re-elected. The gains-based recommendation will now await a Senate decision in order to become law. Defense and veterans hearings on Capitol Hill for the week of June 24, 2024. Load More
