Department of Defense Statement on Congressional Passage of Continuing Resolution
December 23, 2024
Today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III issued the following statement on the Congressional passage of the Continuing Resolution (CR):
“I am deeply concerned by the passage of another Continuing Resolution (CR) that will fund the Department of Defense (DoD) at Fiscal Year 2023 levels. This short-term funding measure creates uncertainty and limits our ability to plan and execute our missions effectively.
A CR is a temporary funding measure that provides stopgap funding at previous levels. It does not provide the resources we need to invest in the capabilities and readiness necessary to meet current and future threats.
The ongoing CR prevents DoD from making critical investments in modernization, research and development, and training that are essential to maintaining our military superiority. It also hampers our ability to support our troops and their families.
DoD has been operating under a CR since September 30, 2024. This extended period of uncertainty has had a significant impact on our operations. Contracts are delayed, programs are scaled back, and our ability to maintain readiness is hindered.
The passage of a CR is a failure of Congress to fulfill its constitutional duty to provide stable funding for the defense of our nation. It is a disservice to our service members, their families, and the American people who rely on a strong military to protect our interests abroad.
I urge Congress to pass a full-year budget resolution that provides the resources we need to defend the nation. A budget resolution would provide stability, allow for long-term planning, and ensure that DoD can effectively execute its missions.
Until a full-year budget resolution is passed, DoD will continue to operate under the CR. However, I must emphasize that this stopgap measure is not a sustainable solution. DoD needs stable and predictable funding to carry out its responsibilities and ensure the security of our nation.”
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