House Passes National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (H.R. 8800), Adopts Budget Resolution (H. Con. Res. 113), and Passes Stop Insider Trading Act (H.R. 7008); Debates Iran War Powers Resolution (H. Con. Res. 89)
The House of Representatives engaged in a full day of legislative activity, passing the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (H.R. 8800) with several amendments, adopting the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2027 (H. Con. Res. 113), and passing the Stop Insider Trading Act (H.R. 7008). A significant debate also occurred on H. Con. Res. 89, a War Powers Resolution directing the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran, though the vote on its adoption was postponed. The day's proceedings included multiple recorded votes on amendments and final passage of these key measures, reflecting deep divisions on defense spending, economic policy, and election integrity.
This chamber-day was highly consequential, with the passage of the annual defense authorization bill, the adoption of the budget resolution setting fiscal parameters and reconciliation instructions, and the passage of a bill addressing congressional stock trading and voter identification. The debate on the War Powers Resolution concerning military engagement in Iran highlighted ongoing tensions between Congress and the executive branch over war authority and the costs of military operations. These actions collectively shape national security, fiscal policy, and electoral processes for the coming fiscal year and beyond.
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027
H.R. 8800Question before the chamber
Passage of the bill, H.R. 8800, to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2027 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes.
The case for
Proponents, led by Mr. Rogers of Alabama, emphasized the bill's critical role in reversing decades of underinvestment and neglect in the Armed Forces and the defense industrial base. They argued it would build a ready, capable, and lethal fighting force to deter adversaries, ensure servicemembers are paid on time, cover unplanned operational costs, and replenish critical munitions. The bill was presented as a necessary step to guarantee national freedom and safety, with a commitment to bipartisan work in conference.
The case against
Opponents, led by Mr. Smith of Washington, expressed concerns about the overall budget number, which they argued, when combined with reconciliation and supplemental requests, amounted to an unsustainable $1.6 trillion, representing a 60 percent increase amidst a nearly $2 trillion deficit. They criticized the administration's 'unbelievably partisan' approach and its handling of the war in Iran, which they characterized as 'idiotic' and 'out of control,' leading to escalating costs and loss of servicemembers without a clear plan. They also raised concerns about the administration's use of the military domestically and its denigration of alliances.
Disposition
passed · recorded vote
The bill was passed by the House.
216-212
Amendments
- Military Chaplains Modernization Act of 2026, to provide statutory clarity for military chaplains' roles, duties, and protections consistent with their sincerely held religious beliefs and endorsing organizations, while ensuring spiritual care for all faiths. (Mr. Self) — agreed to [221-210]
- National Security Investor Personnel Clearance Pilot Program, to allow eligible investors to sponsor security clearances for cleared investment professionals to support investments in small- and medium-sized businesses developing national security technologies. (Mr. Issa) — rejected [207-224]
- Prohibition on Availability of Funds for National Laboratories That Admit Certain Foreign National Visitors, to prohibit foreign nationals from designated countries of concern from accessing nonpublic areas of any national laboratory receiving Defense funding. (Mrs. Hinson) — agreed to
- Prohibition on Use of Automated Speed Enforcement Cameras on Military Installations, to bar the Department of Defense from buying, installing, or operating automated speed cameras on military installations and require decommissioning of existing ones. (Mr. Harrigan) — agreed to [232-199]
- Report on Reducing Civilian Employment, to require the Department of Defense to examine options for reducing its civilian workforce by 200,000 positions. (Mr. Grothman) — rejected [175-254]
- Amendments En Bloc No. 2, consisting of amendments related to payment processing equipment, recovery of outlays, Virginia Class submarines, cranial orthotic devices, counter-subterranean technologies, educational partnerships for recruitment, mobile device force protection, bombing prevention, EOD incentive pay, National Guard EOD pilot program, EOD member benefits, Western Hemisphere threat study, prohibited dietary supplements, sUAS autonomy modules, Army tactical power and battery safety, critical minerals procurement, China dependency report, medical supply chain risk, critical minerals recovery, weekend drill child care, unspecified minor military construction, military child care workforce, JROTC instructor pay, reserve component special pay, SOF sUAS funding, Maxwell AFB wargaming center, military college foreign gifts, display supply chain vulnerabilities, TBI research, supersonic airspace corridor study, Edwards AFB crash briefing, Edwards AFB medical resources, NNSA technical nuclear forensics lead, rare earth elements movement, Corpus Christi Army Depot report, top secret network modernization, USS Phoenix naming, rare earth supply report, copper use report, domestic uranium preference, Yuma Proving Ground land withdrawal, Gaza-Egypt border security study, antisemitism in service academies, National Defense Education Program funding, Skillbridge funding, wastewater surveillance, Coast Guard vice admirals and chief prevention officer, Coast Guard cyber coordination, Coast Guard other transaction authority, Coast Guard Academy adjunct professors, Coast Guard officer designation, Coast Guard officer promotion, NOAA/PHS service credit, Coast Guard board of inquiry remote appearance, Captain of the Port UAS authority, Coast Guard surveillance technical amendments, Coast Guard reception facilities, Coast Guard Academy support, Coast Guard autonomous vessel report, Coast Guard remotely crewed OSV pilot program, Coast Guard homeport changes, Coast Guard architectural and engineering services, Joint AI RDT&E, TRICARE anesthesia coverage, LED lighting on naval vessels, cyber intelligence sharing assessment, DPA extension, Camp Pike/Camp Robinson land exchange. (Mr. Rogers of Alabama) — agreed to
- Amendments En Bloc No. 3, consisting of amendments related to subscription-based funding model at MRTFB, removal of conditions on Indiana land conveyance, secure AI data center demonstration, PFAS destruction and water reclamation, medical supply chain efficiency, timely award and decoration recommendations, contractor inflation relief, export controls, fixed indemnity supplemental benefit plan, AI insider threat risk assessment, National Security Capital Forum reporting, display supply chain vulnerabilities, suicide prevention resources on smart devices, counter-UAS funding, Saipan geothermal resource confirmation, internal base hardening, silicon carbide-based semiconductor prohibition, insect repellent uniform treatments, CCP-linked financial services prohibition, distributed ledger technology prohibition, hypersonics advanced manufacturing, mental health effectiveness of TAP/Solid Start, underutilized Air National Guard airfield infrastructure, SBIC program alignment, Taiwan capabilities and intelligence support, US-Taiwan defense industrial partnership, US-Taiwan RDT&E program, integrated road and railroad logistics, turbojet pyrotechnic devices, Taiwan RIMPAC participation, Link 16 on UH-60M/CH-47F, friction stir additive manufacturing, Battle of Midway Medal of Honor, 155mm artillery production, domestic artillery projectiles, Rock Island Arsenal CDC, Iowa Army Ammunition Plant energy conversion, CCA storage/sustainment/deployment strategy, Indo-Pacific Command posture, railroad freight cars for DoD cargo, other transaction authority reporting, Army quantum readiness, direct hire authority for DIB/MRTFB/DOT&E, DoD service delivery official, Confucius Institutes/Classrooms funding limitation, DD-214 response times, sUAS funding barriers, military medical treatment facility appointment data, shared R&D database, electronic health records timeliness, UAP records collection, chaperone policies in DHA facilities, UGV systems determination, and AI integration into financial audits. (Mr. Rogers of Alabama) — agreed to
- Amendments En Bloc No. 4, consisting of amendments related to blast overpressure mitigation, interim data protection, domestic silicon anode materials, insect repellent uniform treatments, CCP-linked financial services prohibition, distributed ledger technology prohibition, hypersonics advanced manufacturing, mental health effectiveness of TAP/Solid Start, underutilized Air National Guard airfield infrastructure, SBIC program alignment, Taiwan capabilities and intelligence support, US-Taiwan defense industrial partnership, US-Taiwan RDT&E program, integrated road and railroad logistics, turbojet pyrotechnic devices, Taiwan RIMPAC participation, Link 16 on UH-60M/CH-47F, friction stir additive manufacturing, Battle of Midway Medal of Honor, 155mm artillery production, domestic artillery projectiles, Rock Island Arsenal CDC, Iowa Army Ammunition Plant energy conversion, CCA storage/sustainment/deployment strategy, Indo-Pacific Command posture, railroad freight cars for DoD cargo, other transaction authority reporting, Army quantum readiness, direct hire authority for DIB/MRTFB/DOT&E, DoD service delivery official, Confucius Institutes/Classrooms funding limitation, DD-214 response times, sUAS funding barriers, military medical treatment facility appointment data, shared R&D database, electronic health records timeliness, UAP records collection, chaperone policies in DHA facilities, UGV systems determination, and AI integration into financial audits. (Mr. Rogers of Alabama) — agreed to
- Amendments En Bloc No. 5, consisting of amendments related to biological readiness of Army installations, commercial cyber capabilities in JCWA, Aegis Ashore modernization, Joint Special Operations University, Naval Construction Force readiness, USS Shangri-La naming, US-Poland SOF cooperation, Moldova airspace defense, AMPV multiyear procurement, P-8A Poseidon minimum inventory, E-11 BACN retirement limitation, China space capabilities report, extension of certain procurement authority, military personnel tempo study, unmanned systems development, financial and housing counseling, Taiwan-Five Eyes cyber defense, drug cartel military power report, gun-launched electromagnetic obscuration, Medal of Honor for Battle of Midway, 155mm artillery production, Rock Island Arsenal CDC, Iowa Army Ammunition Plant energy conversion, CCA storage/sustainment/deployment strategy, Indo-Pacific Command posture, other transaction authority reporting, Army quantum readiness, direct hire authority for DIB/MRTFB/DOT&E, DoD service delivery official, Confucius Institutes/Classrooms funding limitation, DD-214 response times, sUAS funding barriers, military medical treatment facility appointment data, shared R&D database, electronic health records timeliness, UAP records collection, chaperone policies in DHA facilities, UGV systems determination, and AI integration into financial audits. (Mr. Rogers of Alabama) — agreed to
Who is affected
- U.S. servicemembers and their families: Impacted by provisions related to pay, benefits, spiritual care, and overall military readiness and support.
- Defense industrial base and contractors: Affected by procurement policies, acquisition strategies, and support for critical technologies and manufacturing.
- National laboratories and research institutions: Subject to new restrictions on foreign national access and directives for AI and quantum research.
- Allies and partners (e.g., Australia, Poland, Taiwan, Moldova): Affected by security cooperation programs, military aid, and joint R&D initiatives.
- U.S. taxpayers: Impacted by the overall authorization of defense spending and efforts to improve efficiency and accountability.
Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2027
H. Con. Res. 113Question before the chamber
Adoption of the concurrent resolution establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2027 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2028 through 2036.
The case for
Proponents, led by Mr. Arrington of Texas, argued that the resolution is critical for a functioning government, supporting the warfighter, ensuring military readiness, and providing emergency support for American farmers and ranchers. They highlighted the inclusion of reconciliation instructions for election security measures, such as voter ID, which they claimed is supported by a large majority of Americans. They asserted that Republican policies have led to economic growth, increased wages, and reduced inflation, while criticizing Democratic obstruction.
The case against
Opponents, led by Mr. Boyle of Pennsylvania, criticized the resolution for failing to address the affordability crisis, for adding nearly $100 billion in new deficit spending, and for funding President Trump's 'reckless and unnecessary' war in Iran. They argued that the resolution makes healthcare more expensive, cuts food assistance, and includes 'voter exclusion' measures. They emphasized that the budget does not include any provisions to lower costs for American families and that the President's economic policies have made things more expensive.
Disposition
adopted · recorded vote
The concurrent resolution was adopted by the House.
216-214
Who is affected
- Federal agencies and programs: Subject to the budgetary levels and reconciliation instructions set forth in the resolution, impacting funding for defense, agriculture, and other functions.
- U.S. taxpayers: Affected by the overall federal spending and debt levels, as well as potential changes to tax policies and program funding.
- American farmers and ranchers: Provided with $12 billion in supplemental funding to address losses from natural disasters and market conditions.
- Voters in federal elections: Potentially impacted by new voter identification requirements if reconciliation legislation is enacted.
Stop Insider Trading Act
H.R. 7008Question before the chamber
Passage of the bill, H.R. 7008, to amend chapter 131 of title 5 to require certain restrictions on stocks for Members of Congress and their spouses and dependents, and for other purposes.
The case for
Proponents, led by Mr. Steil of Wisconsin and Mr. Roy of Texas, argued that the bill would restore public trust in Congress by banning Members, their spouses, and dependent children from purchasing individual company stocks. They highlighted the perception of impropriety when lawmakers outperform Wall Street and emphasized that public service is a privilege, not a pathway to personal profit. They also championed the inclusion of a voter ID requirement, stating it strengthens election integrity and is supported by a large majority of Americans.
The case against
Opponents, led by Mr. Morelle of New York and Ms. Houlahan of Pennsylvania, characterized the bill as a 'sham' and a 'wolf in sheep's clothing,' arguing it does not go far enough to ban stock trading, as it allows Members to retain existing stock, sell at opportune times, and reinvest dividends. They criticized the bill for not including the President, Vice President, or Supreme Court justices in its restrictions. Furthermore, they strongly opposed the inclusion of the 'Voter ID Act,' calling it a 'poison pill' and a 'voter suppression measure' that would create chaos by imposing restrictive ID requirements and a 90-day effective date, just two weeks before the midterm elections, without providing funding or time for States to comply.
Disposition
passed · recorded vote
The bill was passed by the House.
232-198
Who is affected
- Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children: Subject to new restrictions on purchasing individual company stocks and requirements for advance notice of stock sales.
- Voters in federal elections: Required to present photo identification to cast a ballot, with specific rules for in-person and non-in-person voting, potentially impacting access to the ballot box for some.
- State and local election officials: Required to implement new voter ID requirements, including providing public access to digital imaging devices and notifying applicants of ID requirements, with a 90-day effective date before midterm elections.
Directing the President Pursuant to Section 5(C) of the War Powers Resolution to Remove United States Armed Forces from Hostilities with Iran
H. Con. Res. 89Question before the chamber
Adoption of the concurrent resolution directing the President to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.
The case for
Proponents, led by Ms. Jayapal of Washington and Mr. Meeks of New York, argued that the resolution is necessary to reassert Congress' constitutional authority over war, as the President's military actions in Iran are 'illegal and unconstitutional' and have not been authorized by Congress. They highlighted the human cost, with 18 U.S. servicemembers killed and hundreds injured, and the economic cost, with rising gas prices and billions of taxpayer dollars spent. They criticized the administration's lack of a clear strategy and its 'reckless' and 'irresponsible' behavior, which they argued has made Iran stronger and the region less safe. They called for diplomacy and adherence to the Constitution.
The case against
Opponents, led by Mr. Mast of Florida, argued that the military operation is a necessary response to Iran's 'forever war' against the United States, citing over 350 attacks, 4 deaths, and 200 wounded in the 30 months prior to Operation Epic Fury. They asserted that Iran was actively pursuing nuclear weapons and that the current operation has 'obliterated' Iran's naval and air forces, bringing a 'reckoning' for past aggressions. They criticized proponents for seeking to remove forces without a clear understanding of which units would be affected and for 'belittling' the sacrifices of servicemembers fighting against the Iranian regime.
Disposition
vote postponed · recorded vote
Further proceedings on the question of adoption were postponed.
Who is affected
- U.S. Armed Forces personnel: Directly involved in military hostilities in Iran, facing risks of injury and death, with 18 servicemembers already killed in the conflict.
- U.S. taxpayers: Bearing the financial cost of the military operations, with tens of billions of dollars already spent and more requested.
- U.S. citizens and economy: Affected by rising gas prices and potential disruptions to global trade routes due to regional instability.
- Iranian government and military: Subject to U.S. military strikes and pressure, with claims of significant damage to their forces.
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (H.R. 8800) Passed
highThe House passed H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, by a recorded vote of 216-212. The bill authorizes appropriations for military activities, military construction, and defense activities, and prescribes military personnel strengths. This passage followed debates and votes on several amendments and the rejection of a motion to recommit.
Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2027 (H. Con. Res. 113) Adopted
highThe House adopted H. Con. Res. 113, establishing the congressional budget for fiscal year 2027 and setting budgetary levels through 2036, by a recorded vote of 216-214. The resolution includes reconciliation instructions for committees to address defense spending, agricultural aid, and election integrity measures.
Stop Insider Trading Act (H.R. 7008) Passed
highThe House passed H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act, by a recorded vote of 232-198. The bill aims to restrict stock purchases by Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children, and includes provisions requiring photo identification for voting in federal elections. A motion to recommit the bill was rejected by a recorded vote of 211-218.
Iran War Powers Resolution (H. Con. Res. 89) Debated, Vote Postponed
highThe House debated H. Con. Res. 89, a War Powers Resolution directing the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran. The debate highlighted constitutional authority over war, the costs of the conflict, and the administration's strategy. A recorded vote on its adoption was demanded and postponed.
Amendments on Military Chaplains, National Labs, Speed Cameras, and Civilian Workforce Disposed of
mediumSeveral amendments to the NDAA were considered. An amendment concerning military chaplains' duties and protections (No. 28) passed 221-210. An amendment prohibiting foreign nationals from countries of concern in national labs (No. 34) was agreed to by voice vote. An amendment banning automated speed enforcement cameras on military installations (No. 44) passed 232-199. An amendment requiring a report on reducing the civilian DoD workforce (No. 316) was rejected 175-254. An amendment for a national security investor personnel clearance pilot program (No. 30) was rejected 207-224.