Tallahassee Sun

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) has emphasized the need to prioritize the well-being of the U.S. military following the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (H.R. 2670) by the House of Representatives. In a statement, Congressman Dunn stated, "Today I voted to support our U.S. Military. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to represent a district where thousands have dedicated their lives to protecting our great nation."

However, Congressman Dunn expressed his disappointment with the inclusion of a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) extension in the bill, which he believes infringes on Americans' rights. He criticized the Senate for deceptively including this provision, stating, "Allowing the Department of Justice and the FBI to illegally spy on U.S. Citizens is unconstitutional and unfair to Americans!"

Highlighting the importance of transparency and protecting civil liberties, Congressman Dunn called for a new FISA bill in April with stronger safeguards against misuse by the Department of Justice and the FBI. He emphasized the need to prevent these institutions from using the program for corrupt motives, stating, "We must always take care of our service members, and we must quit passing these large bills at the eleventh hour that are packed full of hidden provisions that trample on our rights."

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (H.R. 2670) was passed by the House of Representatives with a 310-118 vote. The legislation includes several provisions that benefit the military and Florida's Second Congressional District. These provisions include a 5.2% increase in servicemember basic pay, protections for current servicemembers, and a pathway for the 8,000 discharged servicemembers who refused the COVID-19 vaccine to return to service. Additionally, the bill fully funds the deployment of National Guard troops to support Border Patrol activities at the southwest border.

Congressman Dunn's statement highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the balance between national security and individual privacy rights. As the bill moves forward, it remains to be seen how the Senate will address the concerns raised by Congressman Dunn and others regarding the FISA extension. The importance of supporting and caring for the military, however, remains a bipartisan priority.

To learn more, click on this link: https://dunn.house.gov/press-releases?ID=57A547C0-1BD4-472F-A9BE-E10ABC25388F