Senate Approves $895 Billion Defense Bill

The U.S. Senate has passed a $895 billion defense bill that includes a historic 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted personnel and a 4.5% increase for all service members, set to take effect in January. This legislation aims to counter China's influence and includes measures such as restrictions on military healthcare for transgender children, sparking bipartisan controversy. Despite the bill’s typically bipartisan nature, it faced significant opposition from Democrats due to these cultural provisions, leading to a narrower margin of support in the House compared to previous years. The bill also focuses on improving quality of life for military families by enhancing childcare access and job support for spouses. Additionally, it mandates increased funding for military technology and a ban on Chinese-made products, which has drawn criticism from China. The legislation is now awaiting President Biden's signature to become law.