Defense Primer: The NDAA Process

reportActive / Technical Report | Accesssion Number: AD1129372 | Open PDF

Abstract:

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) provides authorization of appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD), nuclear weapons programs of the Department of Energy, DOD elements of the Intelligence Community, and defense-related activities at other federal agencies. In addition to serving as an authorization of appropriations, the NDAA establishes defense policies and restrictions, and addresses organizational administrative matters related to the DOD. Unlike an appropriations bill, the NDAA does not provide budget authority for government activities. Nevertheless, historically it has provided a fairly reliable indicator of congressional sentiment on subsequent appropriations for particular programs. FY2021 was the 60th consecutive fiscal year for which a defense authorization was enacted. This regular enactment of complex legislation for six decades depends upon close adherence to process and consistency in procedures, schedules, and protocols.

Author(s):
Hertshusen, Valerie ; Mcgarry, Brendan W.
Author Organization(s):
Congressional Research SVC
Funding Organization(s):
Publication Date:
2021 Feb 16
Pagination:
0

Security Markings

RECORD

Collection: TRECMS
Subject Terms
Modernization Areas:
Cyber
Communities of Interest:
Weapons Technologies
Descriptor(s):
national security, law, department of defense, congress, military personnel, united states, budgets, governments, nuclear weapons, personnel management, procurement, acquisition, emerging threats, intelligence community, military budgets
Keyword(s):
NDAA(National Defense Authorization)
Subject Categories:
Military Sciences; Military Sciences
Update Date:
2021 May 18