House passes defense bill banning transgender care for minors, sparking outrage among Democrats.
At a Glance
- House passes $895 billion defense bill with 281-140 vote
- Bill includes 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted troops
- Controversial provision bans transgender care for minors under TRICARE
- 124 Democrats oppose bill due to transgender treatment restrictions
- Bill eliminates DEI programs at Pentagon and includes southern border measures
Defense Bill Passes with Transgender Care Ban
The House of Representatives has passed the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with a vote of 281-140, allocating $895.2 billion for defense and national security. While the bill includes significant pay raises for junior enlisted troops, it has sparked controversy due to a provision restricting so-called “transgender” treatments for minors under TRICARE, the military’s health care plan.
The provision, insisted upon by Speaker Mike Johnson, prevents TRICARE from covering treatments for gender dysphoria that could result in sterilization and permanent medical harm for children under 18. This controversial aspect has led to reduced bipartisan support, with 124 Democrats opposing the bill.
Defense bill could hit last-minute snag over transgender provision https://t.co/CxJhmx8hob @connorobrienNH
— Anthony Adragna (@AnthonyAdragna) December 9, 2024
Republican Support and Democratic Criticism
Republicans have strongly supported the bill, highlighting its focus on enhancing the quality of life for service members and tackling recruitment challenges. Speaker Mike Johnson defended the transgender care provision, stating, “We banned TRICARE from prescribing treatments that would ultimately sterilize our kids.”
“We banned TRICARE from prescribing treatments that would ultimately sterilize our kid,” stated Speaker Mike Johnson
Democrats, however, have criticized the provision as discriminatory and politically motivated. Representative Adam Smith, a top Democrat, condemned it as bigoted, stating that it “taints an otherwise excellent piece of legislation.” Democrats argue that the provision could deny necessary treatments for mental health issues in transgender minors.
Additional Provisions and Cuts
The NDAA includes several other notable provisions. It aims to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs at the Pentagon and implements a hiring freeze on DEI-related roles. The bill also supports deploying the National Guard to the southern border for illegal immigrant apprehensions and drug flow interdiction.
In an effort to modernize the military, the bill includes a provision to explore allowing airmen and Space Force personnel to grow facial hair. However, it does not include a ban on funding for gender transition surgeries for adults or a ban on mask mandates, which some conservatives had pushed for.
Fiscal Responsibility and Next Steps
House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the bill’s fiscal responsibility, highlighting $31 billion in savings from cutting inefficient programs and obsolete weapons. The NDAA prohibits the Pentagon from contracting with companies that blacklist conservative news sources and does not authorize climate change programs, aligning with conservative priorities.
The bill now awaits Senate approval, and if successful, will be presented to President Biden for signature. It’s important to note that a separate defense spending bill will be required to allocate funds for the programs outlined in the NDAA.
