"Congress Approves Historic Pay Increase for Troops, Awaits Senate Approval"

Congress has passed a US defense policy bill that authorizes the largest pay increase for troops in over 20 years. The bill, which received bipartisan support, does not include provisions blocking the Pentagon's abortion travel policy or restricting gender-affirming healthcare for transgender service members. However, Republicans secured concessions on diversity and inclusion training in the military. The bill also includes a short-term extension of a surveillance program, which has drawn criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. It sets key Pentagon policy and authorizes $886 billion for national defense programs. The bill now awaits President Joe Biden's signature.