By Hank Russell
Long Island would receive $78 million in federal funding through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2025. The NDAA recently passed both houses of Congress and is awaiting the president’s signature.
Of that money, $14 million will go to the 106th Rescue Wing at Francis S. Gabreski Airport in Westhampton for a new Combat Rescue Helicopter Simulator and $64 million will be used to make capital improvements to the United States Merchant Marine Academy. The Act would also make investments to boost the defense industry on Long Island.
Included in the Act were two pieces of legislation by U.S. Representative Nick LaLota (R-Rocky Point):
- the Plain Language Contracting Act, which streamlines and clarifies the Department of Defense’s contract process
- The Gold Star Children’s Education Act, which guarantees tuition-free access to Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools for children of fallen service members
The NDAA was sponsored by Congressman David Joyce (R-Ohio). Among its 12 co-sponsors was Andrew Garbarino (R-Patchogue).
LaLota, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, said the NDAA “not only brings significant benefits to our servicemembers and strengthens our national security but also incorporates important measures from our office that will directly impact Long Island and our nation. … [This] bill is a win for our military, our allies, and our future.”