"Landmark Defense Bill Secures Historic Military Pay Raise"

The compromise annual defense bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), includes a 5.2% pay raise for service members starting in January, making it the largest increase in over two decades. The raise aligns with what the Biden administration requested and is expected to easily pass Congress. The bill also includes provisions to address junior service members' finances, such as allowing monthly bonuses for those affected by economic conditions and providing flexibility in adjusting the Basic Allowance for Housing. However, efforts to boost pay for E-6s and below to ensure a minimum equivalent of $15 per hour were unsuccessful.