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Statement on Signing the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1994

November 11, 1993

Today I have signed into law, H.R. 3116, the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1994." H.R. 3116 supports the Administration's major defense priorities and reflects a spirit of cooperation between the Administration and the Congress to provide for a strong national defense. I am very pleased that the Congress has addressed budget issues in such a way that provides balanced support for my number one priority, the readiness of our forces. I also appreciate the support that the Congress has given to key investment and modernization proposals, especially my efforts to create a strong defense reinvestment program.

However, I do have serious reservations about a provision in section 8151 of this Act. I construe section 8151(b)(2)(ii) as not restricting my constitutional responsibility and authority as Commander In Chief, including my ability to place U.S. combat forces under the temporary tactical control of a foreign commander where to do otherwise would jeopardize the safety of U.S. combat forces in support of UNOSOM II. Such U.S. combat forces shall, however, remain under the operational command and control of U.S. commanders at all times.

WILLIAM J. CLINTON

The White House,

November 11, 1993.

NOTE: H.R. 3116, approved November 11, was assigned Public Law No. 103-139.

William J. Clinton, Statement on Signing the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 1994 Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/218335

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