Washington D.C. (Link) - Congressman Adam Smith (D-WA), and Congressman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-CA), Ranking Member and Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, respectively, issued the following statement as it appeared the Senate would depart on a two week recess without completing the National Defense Authorization Act for FY14:

“For fifty-one years Republicans and Democrats have come together to passed the National Defense Authorization Act, which provides our men and women in uniform and their families with the resources they need to face a dangerous and uncertain world.  Time is running short to reach an agreement this year, but it has not yet run out.  There are still pathways to passage for this vital bill.  We urge the Senate to resume NDAA consideration as soon as they return from their Thanksgiving recess. Our colleagues in the Senate should remember their obligation to our troops and continue to work towards final passage."

The House passed the FY14 National Defense Authorization Act on June 14, 2013 by a vote of 315-108.  On the same day, the Senate Armed Services Committee passed their version of the bill by a vote of 23-3.