In a recent move, Congress has unveiled an $895 billion defense bill that includes a major pay increase for junior enlisted troops, potentially boosting their salaries by thousands of dollars in 2025, as well as a proposed 14.5% pay hike. However, the bill has sparked controversy due to provisions limiting transgender treatment and healthcare cuts for servicemembers’ families. Additionally, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) extends the learning period for commercial spaceflight and includes protections for abortion travel policy. Military advocacy groups are actively pushing for changes on Capitol Hill, as last-minute negotiations could arise over the contentious transgender provision.