Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senator Todd Young from Indiana voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which outlines policies for the Department of Defense and sets national security priorities. The legislation passed the Senate with a vote of 85-14.

"The National Defense Authorization Act is one of the most important pieces of legislation that Congress considers each year," stated Senator Young. He expressed satisfaction with the inclusion of priorities aimed at countering the Chinese Communist Party, maintaining U.S. leadership in biotechnology, modernizing defense capabilities, and supporting Indiana's defense industrial base.

Key provisions secured by Senator Young include:

Emerging Biotechnology: As chair of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, Young ensured that the NDAA requires the DoD to develop a roadmap for utilizing biotechnology. It also mandates an AIxBio sandbox to explore how artificial intelligence and biotechnology can achieve national security goals.

Applicant Medical Reimbursement Act: This provision allows reimbursement for military applicants' co-pays up to $100 when visiting civilian medical providers during their application process.

Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonics Test Bed (MACH-TB) funding: This funding supports NSWC-Crane in Indiana, solidifying its role as a center for hypersonic weapons systems development.

Anti-Submarine Warfare Equipment funding: An additional $25 million was authorized for sonobuoy stocks, essential tools manufactured by Ultra Maritime in Columbia City, Indiana, to detect submarine threats.

AI maritime maneuvering funding: A $10 million authorization supports Trine University and NSWC Crane's development of AI-enabled maritime maneuvering and navigation, enhancing STEM education and resources in Indiana.

Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs) program money: Up to $500 million will be funded through a spectrum auction to support designated Tech Hubs like Heartland BioWorks in Indiana.