Strong Delivers for North Alabama with CJS Funding Wins

U.S. Representative Dale Strong (R-AL5), who serves as Vice Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, celebrated the passage of major Fiscal Year 2026 funding bills and the advancement of federal investments that directly benefit North Alabama.

The three-bill package the House approved includes the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026 (H.R. 6938). This legislation funds vital federal agencies and programs, from law enforcement and scientific research to economic development and public safety.

As Vice Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science subcommittee, Strong highlighted the role North Alabama plays on the national stage — particularly in areas such as aerospace, law enforcement, and science. The subcommittee’s work shapes funding for Agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation, NASA, and the National Science Foundation.

Among other things, the three bills position North Alabama at the center of American space superiority by providing: 

• $2.33 billion for the Space Launch System, maintaining support of the SLS beyond the Artemis II and Artemis III missions 
• Over $2 billion for the Human Landing System 
• Up to $120 million for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion 
• At least 3.2% of NASA’s R&D budget for Small Business Innovation Research awards 

Strong also announced that the House has advanced more than $12 million in Community Project Funding for local infrastructure and public safety improvements in North Alabama. This funding, included in the appropriations package, supports projects ranging from local law enforcement enhancements to critical infrastructure upgrades throughout the region.

“These investments will help strengthen communities, support public safety, and boost economic growth right here in North Alabama,” Strong said in his announcement.

In recent years, Strong has brought home millions to improve transportation, public safety, and other local needs. These efforts build on earlier successes that directed funding for roadway improvements and enhancements to public safety communications systems.

The House action on the FY26 appropriations package marks continued progress toward completing the federal budget for the coming fiscal year. The full Senate will now consider the measures before they reach the President’s desk for signature.