National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (12 Nov 2025): Held at the desk.
What this bill does
Senate Bill 2296, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, is the annual bill that authorizes funding levels and policy for the Department of Defense and related national security agencies. It sets authorized funding for military procurement, research and development, operations and maintenance, and military personnel, while establishing troop strength levels for the active and reserve forces. The bill also addresses a wide range of specific policy matters, including weapons and aircraft programs (such as the Columbia-class submarine, B-21 bomber, and various aircraft fleets), acquisition and contracting rules, health care and compensation benefits for service members and families, environmental and hazardous-materials management at defense sites, and personnel policies covering promotions, education, and military justice. Additional divisions cover military construction, Department of Energy defense programs, intelligence authorization, State Department matters, the Coast Guard, and housing policy.
The bill primarily affects the armed forces, defense contractors, military families, and federal agencies involved in national security, energy, intelligence, and diplomacy. Provisions touch service members' pay, health care, and benefits; defense industry contracting and supply chains; military academies and training programs; and oversight of specific weapons systems and installations.
The bill passed the Senate on October 9, 2025, by a vote of 77–20, with an amendment. It now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. According to the Congressional Research Service, some provisions of this bill have been incorporated into other legislation.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026
This bill sets forth policies and authorities for FY2026 for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, military construction, and the national security programs of the Department of Energy (DOE). It also authorizes the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board for FY2026. The bill authorizes appropriations but it does not provide budget authority, which is provided by appropriations legislation.
Among other elements, the bill
• authorizes the procurement of various items, including aircraft, ships, and missiles;
• authorizes active duty and reserve component personnel strength levels;
• authorizes specified military construction projects and extends the authorization of certain projects from previous fiscal years;
• requires DOD to develop a strategy on the national security implications of emerging biotechnologies;
• requires the Navy to implement certain processes to improve the material condition and combat readiness of Navy surface ships maintained and repaired at private shipyards;
Timeline
12 Nov 2025
Held at the desk.
Common questions
- What does S. 2296 do?
- Senate Bill 2296, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, is the annual bill that authorizes funding levels and policy for the Department of Defense and related national security agencies. It sets authorized funding for military procurement, research and development, operations and maintenance, and military personnel, while establishing troop strength levels for the active and reserve forces. The bill also addresses a wide range of specific policy matters, including weapons and aircraft programs (such as the Columbia-class submarine, B-21 bomber, and various aircraft fleets), acquisition and contracting rules, health care and compensation benefits for service members and families, environmental and hazardous-materials management at defense sites, and personnel policies covering promotions, education, and military justice. Additional divisions cover military construction, Department of Energy defense programs, intelligence authorization, State Department matters, the Coast Guard, and housing policy. The bill primarily affects the armed forces, defense contractors, military families, and federal agencies involved in national security, energy, intelligence, and diplomacy. Provisions touch service members' pay, health care, and benefits; defense industry contracting and supply chains; military academies and training programs; and oversight of specific weapons systems and installations. The bill passed the Senate on October 9, 2025, by a vote of 77–20, with an amendment. It now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. According to the Congressional Research Service, some provisions of this bill have been incorporated into other legislation.
- Has S. 2296 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for S. 2296. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored S. 2296?
- S. 2296 was sponsored by Sen. Wicker, Roger F. [R-MS] (R-MS), with 0 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on S. 2296?
- Held at the desk. (12 Nov 2025).
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