Barrett’s aviation safety fix makes the cut.

First up: aviation safety. After a deadly helicopter collision earlier this year, Barrett’s Military Helicopter Training Safety Act made it into the final bill. It directs the Pentagon to study adding collision- avoidance technology to military helicopters – the same kind of commonsense systems already used in civilian aviation. Two reports on the issue are due within 90 days from the signing of the legislation.

NDAA shields Michigan’s A-10 mission during transition.

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Then there’s the Selfridge Air National Guard Base, a crown jewel for Michigan’s defense footprint and local economy. The NDAA protects the A-10 mission during the transition to new F-15EX jets, preventing a dangerous capability gap that could’ve sent personnel packing and readiness sliding.

Outdated war powers finally repealed after decades on the books.

Finally, the bill tackles something Congress rarely addresses: cleaning up outdated authorities. The NDAA repeals the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force – remnants of the Gulf and Iraq wars that have remained on the books long after their original purpose had passed. Barrett, who deployed to Iraq himself, has called the repeal long overdue.

Barrett said in a press release, “This year’s defense bill is personal for me. Not only does it finally end the military authorization for the Iraq War nearly 18 years after I deployed there, but it brings my first bill one step away from being signed into law.”

He added, “This marks the first time in more than 50 years that Congress has repealed a battlefield combat authorization. I’m also proud to have my provisions included to make our skies safer for everyone who flies and deliver critical support for the fighter mission at Selfridge, all while guaranteeing our troops receive the compensation and resources they need to keep America safe. This is a strong piece of legislation that the Senate can and should send to President Trump’s desk immediately.”

Construction, care, and cleanup: how Michigan gains.

The bill also delivers tangible benefits closer to home for Michigan communities and military families. It authorizes funding for Army and Air National Guard construction and upgrades nationwide – money that typically goes toward armories, training centers, aviation facilities, and maintenance buildings. Michigan Guard units have a strong track record of competing successfully for these military construction dollars, which supports local jobs, keeps work in the hands of Michigan contractors, and boosts readiness in places like Grayling, Alpena, Battle Creek, and Selfridge.