Bush signs bill funding war on terror Published Oct. 1, 2006 By Army Sgt. Sara Wood American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- President Bush on Sept. 29 signed into law H.R. 5631, the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2007," which appropriates the funds needed to fight the war on terror, advance other U.S. interests abroad, and support the armed forces. The bill includes an additional $70 billion in emergency funds to pay for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan through early next year, including nearly $24 billion for the Army and Marine Corps to repair and replace worn-out equipment. The new funding brings to $507 billion the total amount authorized by Congress for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and other anti-terrorism efforts. The bill provides $378 billion for core Pentagon programs, about a 5-percent increase, though slightly less than Bush sought. In a statement, Bush said the act prohibits the use of funds to initiate a special access program or a new start program, unless the congressional defense committees receive advance notice. In most situations this advance notice can be provided, he said, but in certain situations, especially during wartime, the president must act promptly under his constitutional grants of executive power and authority while protecting sensitive national security information. Before signing the bill into law, Bush said, "I applaud Congress for passing legislation that will provide our men and women in uniform with the necessary resources to protect our country and win the war on terror. As our troops risk their lives to fight terrorism, this bill will ensure they are prepared to defeat today's enemies and address tomorrow's threats."