Political Quotes

“I wish today to urge my colleagues to support the Rockefeller substitute to H.R. 2881, the Aviation Investment and Modernization Act. Aviation is a central element of our globalized economy. The United States is the world's leader in aviation, and if we are to maintain this position, we must invest the proper resources. I wish to congratulate Senator Rockefeller for bringing together diverse interests and crafting a measure that will bolster oversight of the Federal Aviation Administration's, FAA, safety system, provide guaranteed funding to modernize the air traffic control system, strengthen passenger protections, and fund air service to small communities throughout the Nation. I am very proud of the efforts of Senator Rockefeller and the members of the Senate Commerce Committee. The Commerce Committee provisions in the substitute before us represent a well-crafted effort that enjoys bipartisan support. The substitute before us represents a rare opportunity to significantly shape the future of the national air transportation system, and therefore, ensure our standing will remain at the forefront of the aviation industry. The actions we take to reauthorize the FAA will affect the public for decades to come. Legislation to reauthorize the FAA is long overdue, and it is vital that we pass this bill that addresses the challenges facing our Nation's aviation system.”