Congress takes steps to address financial challenges caused by inflation.
House legislators recently proposed significant pay increases for junior enlisted service members, along with monthly bonuses to counter inflation and reforms to enhance housing and assistance stipends for military families. The House Armed Services Committee’s quality of life panel, chaired by Representative Don Bacon, will commence public hearings and site visits next month. The panel will address various military personnel and family issues to provide policy recommendations early next year.
“We need to verify how much of a problem this is, find out how many are on food stamps, and look at what we need to do to fix that,” said Congressman Bacon. “What are the possible remedies? That’s one of the first things I want to jump on.”
Federal legislators have highlighted disparities between the basic pay of troops and the minimum wage for government contractors. The committee will review its draft of the annual defense legislation, including provisions for monthly bonuses for troops ranked E-6 and below. Housing stipends and rules regarding the Basic Needs Allowance are also expected to be adjusted.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Congressman Bacon as he advocates for pay increases for junior enlisted service members.
- For representatives in the House as they consider the measure in the defense authorization legislation.
Sources: Military Times, Federal News Network
