The legislative arm of the National Rifle Association thanked President Obama for signing the annual defense policy bill last week, which will make several changes supported by the pro-gun group.
The National Defense Authorization Act included a provision requiring the Pentagon to establish a process for individual base commanders to allow troops on their base to carry a firearm for protection. The change to policy was introduced after four Marines and a sailor were shot and killed at an off-base recruiting center in Chattanooga, Tenn.
“The brave men and women in our armed forces should not be left defenseless against terrorists on American soil,” said Chris Cox, executive director of the National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action. “Members of the military should have the same ability to defend themselves as every other law-abiding citizen.”
The NRA also backs provisions in the act to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from banning lead ammunition and to allow the Army to sell its vintage firearms, which are being stored at a cost of $200,000 per year, according to the group’s press release.
“The NDAA puts an end to the wasteful government practice of warehousing firearms. It’s a common sense measure that saves taxpayers money and allows gun collectors to add a sought-after vintage sidearm to their collection,” Cox said.
Obama signed the annual defense policy legislation, which also includes changes to military retirement and restrictions on transfers from Guantanamo Bay, last week before Thanksgiving.
