Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senator Katie Britt has successfully secured a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (NDAA) to support Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs across the United States. The Senate passed the bill on December 18, 2024.

The JROTC programs, sponsored by the U.S. Armed Forces, are available in high schools and some middle schools nationwide. The new provision reduces the minimum number of students required to establish a JROTC unit to 50, allowing more schools to offer these programs.

Senator Britt emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Protecting the American Dream starts with safeguarding opportunities for students to not only learn and grow but to appreciate the value of citizenship and service in our great nation." She added that this change would empower future leaders with values such as responsibility and selfless service.

Mayor Frank Brocato also expressed his support for Senator Britt's efforts. He remarked, "JROTC at Hoover High School plays a vital role in shaping the character, discipline, and leadership of our young men and women." He highlighted that reducing enrollment requirements would ensure the program's continuation.

The NDAA has been approved annually by Congress for 64 years. It authorizes funding for military functions, outlines national security priorities, and sets targets for modernizing defense technologies. This year's bill includes pay raises for servicemembers in Alabama and focuses on various military priorities.