01/08/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/08/2026 18:50
WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Representative Dale Strong, a member of the Appropriations Committee and Vice Chairman of the Commerce, Justice, and Science Subcommittee, applauds the House passage of three annual Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 funding bills.
H.R. 6938 includes three full-year Fiscal Year 2026 funding bills:
Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies
Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies
Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies
These bills deliver real results for North Alabama by refocusing Washington spending. It cuts waste, restores accountability, and delivers on President Trump's agenda. It ensures the United States remains the dominant power in space and makes targeted, meaningful investments to advance reliable and affordable energy and enhance the safety and security of all Americans.
As Vice Chairman of the Commerce, Justice, Science Subcommittee, Congressman Strong played a key role in ensuring priorities for North Alabama were reflected in the final package.
"This legislation makes crucial investments that secure the future of the Space Launch System, Human Landing System, and nuclear thermal propulsion. These targeted investments reinforce U.S. leadership in space, strengthen national security, and directly support the Marshall Space Flight Center.
"The bill also supports local law enforcement through critical grant programs and provides robust funding to combat and dismantle transnational criminal organizations. It supports FBI Redstone's operations and ensures our dedicated FBI agents are back in the field and out of the Beltway to better protect America," said Strong.
KEY PRIORITIES SECURED FOR NORTH ALABAMA:
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE
The Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026, provides significant funding for NASA, law enforcement, and federal research initiatives that drive economic growth and innovation in North Alabama.
Positions North Alabama at the center of American space superiority by providing:
$2.33 billion for the Space Launch System, maintaining support of the SLS beyond the Artemis II and Artemis III missions
Over $2 billion for the Human Landing System
Up to $120 million for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion
At least 3.2% of NASA's R&D budget for Small Business Innovation Research awards
Supports North Alabama's Law Enforcement Operations by:
Putting FBI agents back in the field, with notable investments that ensure the successful continued expansion of the premier law enforcement center at FBI Redstone.
Reinforces Huntsville's position as the Bureau's center for innovation and training.
Increased support for state and local law enforcement agencies to combat violent crime and drug trafficking.
ENERGY AND WATER
The Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026, strengthens our nation's U.S. energy independence, improves water infrastructure, and protects communities from floods and natural disasters.
Unleashes American Energy Dominance by expanding domestic energy production, including nuclear and hydroelectric initiatives.
Bolsters national security by modernizing nuclear weapons stockpile & infrastructure to maintain America's edge.
INTERIOR AND ENVIRONMENT
The Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 bill prioritizes responsible land and resource stewardship, invests in critical water infrastructure upgrades, and reduces regulatory burdens for farmers and small businesses.
Promotes domestic energy and mineral developments to unleash American energy and reduce our reliance on foreign countries.
Supports our farmers and ranchers by reversing harmful Biden-era greenhouse gas regulations.
When passed in the Senate and signed by the President, this package will mark six of twelve full-year FY26 bills enacted. It reflects a meaningful step away from bloated omnibus spending packages by embracing a transparent, committee-led process that delivers real savings.
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