Press Releases

 Today, Congressman Richard E. Neal released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 6395 – William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) For Fiscal Year 2021.

“The National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2021 is good for residents of western and central Massachusetts and the industries we have here that help keep our government going,” said Congressman Neal. “In addition to a 3 percent raise for our servicemembers, $1 billion to fund preparedness for any future pandemics, and $600 million in science and technology funding, there is more funding to support jobs and growth in our region. These include the authorization of projects that directly impact the workforce at General Dynamics in Pittsfield and Warren Pumps in Warren by retaining roughly 1,500 jobs. In addition, the NDAA authorizes $1.5 billion of environmental remediation in regard to PFAS contamination to assist in communities like Westfield and throughout Berkshire County. Westover Air Reserve Base and Barnes Air National Guard generate hundreds of millions of dollars in economic development and this bill will ensure they are able to be strong community partners.

“This legislation is important for our troops, their families, and our communities as a whole, and I am confident that it will benefit the residents of CD-1 for many years to come.” 

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