Stops Short Of Veto Threat If They Are Included In Defense Spending Bill

The White House has issued a Statement of Administration Policy (SAP) strongly objecting to the Senate version of the FY2010 Defense Authorization Bill. The objections are based on the inclusion of funding for additional C-17 cargo planes President Obama says are not necessary, but the SAP stops short of threatening to veto the bill over the aircraft.

The Senate began consideration of the $636.3 billion spending bill late last week. 

In its statement, the administration again threatens to veto the measure if it includes any funding for the F-22 Raptor, The F-136 alternate engine for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, or the VH-71 presidential helicopter. The Pentagon wants to end those programs and shift the resources to meet current and future war-fighting needs.

C-17 Globemaster

The publication Government Executive reports that, while none of the programs are included in the Senate bill, the House-passed version of the spending measure adds $560 million to continue the unwanted second engine and $485 million to make five initial VH-71 aircraft operational. "The Congress is urged to oppose funding these programs during floor action and in conference," according to the statement.

FMI: www.senate.gov