“This provision will ensure the thousands of employees, contractors, and service members who travel through these gates will have secure and efficient access as Redstone’s mission continues to expand,” said Strong (R-Huntsville).
The provision will grant the Defense Department greater flexibility to use short-term contracts for security guard and firefighter personnel, ensuring base gates and emergency services remain fully staffed when personnel gaps arise, Strong said.
Without a large population of junior enlisted personnel to perform security guard functions when needed, Redstone has faced gate closures and traffic delays.
“By modernizing this outdated law, installations facing security guard or firefighter shortages will have the authority they need to bring in contracted personnel, keep operations smooth, and stay focused on their mission,” said Strong.
The NDAA also expedites construction of Space Command headquarters and provides $55 million for a propulsion systems building at Redstone Arsenal.
The bill awaits passage by the U.S. Senate before going to the president’s desk.
