Defense Bill Faces Opposition Over Transgender Healthcare Provision

Key Democrat signals potential vote against $895B defense bill over Republican-backed restrictions on transgender medical care for military children.

The $895 billion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes a provision barring military healthcare coverage for transgender treatments that may result in sterilization for minors under 18.
Representative Adam Smith, the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, criticized the provision as biased and divisive, suggesting it could jeopardize bipartisan support for the bill.
Republican Speaker Mike Johnson defended the measure, calling it a necessary step to protect children from what he described as 'radical gender ideology.'
The NDAA also includes a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted troops, along with provisions addressing border security and limiting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the military.
With Republicans holding a slim majority in the House, the bill's passage may hinge on party unity or potential defections over its controversial provisions.