U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) has announced his support for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which recently passed a vote in the Senate. In a statement, Cassidy addressed the ongoing government shutdown and its effects on military personnel.
“The Schumer Shutdown is harming families and denying our troops their pay,” said Dr. Cassidy. “That’s why Republicans are working to strengthen our defense, support Louisiana’s military bases, and protect our troops.”
The NDAA contains several provisions that directly impact Louisiana. One of the key measures is the establishment of a Military–Civilian Medical Surge Program as a program of record. This builds on previous Department of Defense funding that designated LSU Health Shreveport as a pilot site for the National Disaster Medical System. The program aims to provide stable, long-term funding and to enhance collaboration between LSUHS, Barksdale Air Force Base, and Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs Medical Center. This initiative is expected to improve Louisiana’s capacity for disaster response and medical readiness.
The defense package also increases authorization for shipbuilding and amphibious fleet programs. These measures are intended to support Louisiana shipyards and strengthen the maritime defense industrial base in the state.
