John Mica: “It is unfortunate that we find ourselves considering the 17th FAA Extension bill. As of September 30th, it has been…”

“It is unfortunate that we find ourselves considering the 17th FAA Extension bill. As of September 30th, it has been three years since the FAA was last authorized. This has been the longest period of time between FAA reauthorizations in decades, but still Congress has been unable to reach agreement on a final FAA bill. I know we are all disappointed that we have not been able to reach agreement on a full reauthorization package. Such a bill would: Ensure stable funding for airport projects across the country, providing for long-term construction jobs; Advance implementation of the Next Generation Air Traffic Control system; and Improve aviation safety standards. Both bodies have been negotiating to produce a final FAA bill that sets priorities and improves our airspace system. Unfortunately, Congress just cannot seem to get the job done. In the 112th Congress the FAA Reauthorization bill will be a top priority for the Committee. We will work closely with our colleagues across the aisle and in the other chamber to complete a bill as quickly as possible. So, while I am sorry we were unable to reach agreement on a bill in this Congress, I support this extension to keep FAA up and running until we complete the bill next year. I urge my colleagues to adopt the legislation.”