Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy has announced that the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is on its way to being signed into law by the president. This package includes significant investments in Louisiana's military infrastructure, totaling $105 million.

"Strategic investments in Louisiana’s bases and troops are critical to our national defense. It also supports jobs in our communities," said Dr. Cassidy. "This package demonstrates to the world that the United States stands ready to defend our freedom against any adversary."

The legislation contains measures aimed at safeguarding national security by restricting changes to the Air Force Global Strike Command at Barksdale Air Force Base without Congressional approval. Additionally, it prevents any expenditure on altering the command's current structure until a plan is submitted for review.

Furthermore, Cassidy has emphasized improvements in special education services within schools operated by the U.S. Department of Defense, particularly for conditions like dyslexia. The Government Accountability Office is tasked with studying potential enhancements in this area.

Among other initiatives, Cassidy secured $6 million for a new National Disaster Military System Pilot program involving LSU Health Shreveport, designed to bolster emergency medical care during disasters. This funding was part of a separate bill known as the FY25 Senate Defense Appropriations package.