John Mica: “Mr. Chairman, again, I have some reservations and I think I have the responsibility as Chair of the subcommittee to…”

“Mr. Chairman, again, I have some reservations and I think I have the responsibility as Chair of the subcommittee to raise those reservations about the amendment. It is being put forth by three outstanding Members with very good intentions. They represent rural airports and are concerned about service and the contribution. Let me say, though, that this program goes back to 1970, late 1970s when we deregulated the airlines; and each year subsequently some of these communities have gotten this subsidization of service and some should use it, maybe some should not. The nature of the aviation industry has changed dramatically, and service has changed dramatically around the country. And we are looking for ways to enhance that service, particularly to the small community. And you can find no stronger advocate than me in that regard. The administration had proposed a 25 percent match; and as a compromise, we lowered that to some 10 percent. We also have a provision in here for a waiver for hardship cases. We do believe that some review is necessary and that there should not be an automatic disbursement from Washington without some equal match. And also I might add for the record that we have increased the authorization from some $65 million to $115 million. So I have concern about this. My concern also is that in the long run we will have less money.”