Houston Daily

Congressman Troy E. Nehls (R-TX-22) announced his support for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, which passed with bipartisan backing. The legislation includes the Directing Resources for Officers Navigating Emergencies (DRONE) Act of 2025, a measure co-sponsored by Nehls and Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA-46).

In a statement, Nehls said: "I just voted 'YES' to pass the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. This legislation restores our military’s focus on lethality, meritocracy, and accountability, and gives our brave service men and women a 3.8% pay raise."

He added: "Importantly, this legislation codifies all or parts of 15 of President Donald J. Trump’s executive orders and codifies 30 legislative proposals requested by the Trump Administration. The FY26 NDAA supports priorities of President Trump, including the Golden Dome, F-47 fighter aircraft, submarines, warships, and autonomous systems."

Regarding the DRONE Act of 2025's inclusion in the bill, Nehls stated: "I’m pleased to announce that the Directing Resources for Officers Navigating Emergencies (DRONE) Act of 2025, legislation that I championed alongside Representative Lou Correa, was included in the NDAA. This bipartisan legislation allows law enforcement to purchase and operate unmanned aircraft systems, also known as drones. By equipping our men and women in blue with the most updated and efficient tools they need to protect and defend our communities and families, more officers are kept out of the line of fire, resulting in safer streets."

Nehls has represented Texas' 22nd Congressional District since winning election in 2020 against Sri Preston Kulkarni with 51.5% of the vote. He secured re-election in both 2022 against Jamie Jordan with over 62% support and again in 2024 against Marquette Greene-Scott with a similar margin.