WASHINGTON – The Senate approved a defense policy bill on Wednesday that authorizes the largest pay raise for troops in more than 20 years. The passage of the bill followed months of negotiations, with the final version dropping several policy priorities championed by social conservatives who were not supported by Democrats. The bill, which passed by a vote of 87-13, now heads to the House, where concerns have been raised by opponents.

Notably, the bill does not include language blocking the Pentagon’s abortion travel policy and restricting gender-affirming health care for transgender service members and dependents. However, Republicans did secure some concessions on diversity and inclusion training in the military.

In addition to authorizing a 5.2% increase in service member pay, the bill includes $886 billion for national defense programs for the current fiscal year, about 3% more than the prior year. The bill also features a short-term extension of a surveillance program aimed at preventing terrorism and catching spies, which has sparked criticism from both sides of the political aisle.

Despite efforts by some lawmakers to keep the extension out of the defense bill, the bill was approved by the Senate and is now awaiting a vote in the House. The House Speaker is advocating for swift passage of the bill, emphasizing its importance in building the military required to deter future conflicts.

The bill also includes measures related to Ukraine and China, including the establishment of a special inspector general for Ukraine and the approval of an agreement allowing Australia to access nuclear-powered submarines.

Dozens of House Republicans have expressed opposition to the bill, particularly over a Pentagon rule allowing travel reimbursement for service members seeking abortion or reproductive care out of state. The bill is also at the center of an ongoing debate over privacy protections and surveillance programs, with lawmakers pushing for better protections for Americans.

Despite the contentious debate and opposing views, the Senate’s passage of the defense bill marks a significant step in setting key Pentagon policy and authorizing crucial funding for national defense programs.

The Senate approved a defense policy bill on Wednesday that authorizes the largest pay raise for troops in more than 20 years, with the final version dropping several policy priorities championed by social conservatives who were not supported by Democrats. Despite the contentious debate and opposing views, the Senate’s passage of the defense bill marks a significant step in setting key Pentagon policy and authorizing crucial funding for national defense programs.