Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. — July 18, 2025… Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Defense Appropriations bill that passed the U.S. House of Representatives today. This bill allocates $831.5 billion in discretionary spending that is laser focused on manning, training, and equipping the Joint Force to deter and—if necessary—fight and win our nation’s wars.

Congressman Womack said, “Investments in our national defense remain my top priority, and the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill reflects that commitment—from improving the lives of those who voluntarily raise their right hand to serve, to countering drug trafficking at our borders, and ensuring we continue to possess the most advanced weaponry and equipment in the world to win future conflicts.”

Congressman Womack continued, “Combined with the recently passed reconciliation package, this legislation brings the total defense budget for FY26 to $1 trillion—a funding level that must be increased in the coming years to protect our national security. I’m pleased the House passed this legislation before the end of the fiscal year, allowing us to move beyond outdated provisions from 2024, and thank Chairman Cole and Subcommittee Chairman Calvert for their leadership on this bill.”

Bill highlights:

• Supports our troops by including a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers starting January 1, 2026.
• Provides all necessary funding for the F-35 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) F-35 training mission at Ebbing Air National Guard Base.
• Delivers increased resources for the National Guard’s State Partnership Program which enhances our military presence in strategic areas around the globe.
• Provides robust funding for critical munitions programs made in Arkansas.
• Enhances investments in 5th and 6th generation aircraft and aircraft for the Army National Guard.
• Invests additional funding in critical research and development programs conducted in Northwest Arkansas.
• Supports our allies and partners, including Israel and Taiwan, by providing substantial funding for joint exercises, training, and development programs.

A summary of the bill is available HERE.

The bill text is available HERE.

Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas’s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

womack.house.gov

###