Today, National Governors Association Chair Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey and Vice Chair Governor Spencer Cox of Utah released the following statement after the House and Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act.
“Governors thank Congress for passing robust funding to ensure the continued readiness of the National Guard through personnel and equipment. Governors note how important this funding is, in light of both the massive responses to the 2022 hurricane and wildfire seasons, as well as ongoing disaster response operations.
“The continued support from Congress provides the National Guard with well-maintained and modernized equipment, greater reliability and improved readiness for life-saving missions undertaken on behalf of our nation during disasters and emergencies.
“This funding also ensures that our National Guard continues to be the vital and capable combat reserve of our United States Army and Air Force.
“However, Governors are disappointed that the legislation creates an unfunded mandate that preempts states, territories and local governments in terms of their financial reporting, as directed by the Financial Data Transparency Act, which was included in the final legislation. We urge flexibility in applying the rulemakings and request that Congress provide funding through future appropriations to support states, territories and localities in the adoption of these requirements.
“Governors call on the President to swiftly sign the legislation and urge Congress to pass full-year appropriations as soon as possible. States and territories succeed when there is certainty and stability in federal resources.“
