House Amends and Passes HR 4909

Late last night the House completed the extensive amendment process on HR 4909, the FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act and passed the bill by a somewhat bipartisan vote of 277 - 147.

The two remaining amendments of potential interest to readers of this blog were, as predicted adopted by voice votes in en bloc consideration. Rep. Meehan’s (R,PA) National Guard cybersecurity communications amendment was considered as part of block # 8. Rep. Donovan’s (R,NY) TWIC application amendment was considered as part of block #9.

The Senate is likely to take up their own version of the NDAA (S 2943) introduced yesterday and then a conference committee would have to iron out the differences between the two bills.

The President has reported issued a veto threat against HR 4909 over funding provisions in the bill. It remains to be seen if the Senate version contains the same provisions.