Tom Latham: “The purpose of the amendment is to provide funding for Navy operations that might be affected by new and existing wind…”

“The purpose of the amendment is to provide funding for Navy operations that might be affected by new and existing wind turbines. Upgrades to air traffic control to address Navy requirements resulting from the construction of wind farms are the responsibility of the Department of Defense and potentially those who are constructing the new wind farms. FAA would have a role in consulting with DOD to upgrades of air traffic control facilities, but this is typically done as a reimbursable agreement between DOD and the FAA. Further, we cannot accept this offset. We have already reduced DOT salaries and expenses for the Office of the Secretary down to the level provided in fiscal year 2012. We have provided funds in this account to protect transportation consumers, ensure safety across DOT programs, and provide oversight of DOT programs to safeguard the taxpayer. I would be happy to work with the gentleman to ensure the FAA has an appropriate partner to help in addressing this issue, but I must oppose the gentleman's amendment. I urge a ``no'' vote and yield back the balance of my time.”