Troops in the United States are set to receive the largest pay raise in 22 years starting in January, as the annual defense authorization bill has been passed by both the House and the Senate and is headed to President Joe Biden’s desk for approval. The legislation, which outlines budget priorities for fiscal 2024, includes a 5.2% military pay raise, the highest one-year increase in basic pay since 2002. For enlisted military members with three years of service, this means approximately $1,700 more in take-home pay in 2024 compared to 2023. Additionally, the bill mandates a review of military pay rates for potential future adjustments. While some lawmakers expressed concerns about social issues and provisions related to the bill, it has garnered bipartisan support as a crucial step in ensuring military readiness and support for military families.
