Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I join the chairman in expressing my strong support for H.R. 3159, the National Transportation Safety Board Amendments of 1996. This legislation reauthorizes the NTSB for 3 years, and makes a number of changes requested by the NTSB to allow the Board to continue its excellent work. As this bill moved through the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I repeatedly observed that the NTSB is probably the most respected Government entity in the United States. Since the committee reported this legislation, we have witnessed two devastating aircraft crashes that have focused the Nation's attention on the NTSB's work. In the most difficult of circumstances, the NTSB works with local, State, and Federal entities as well as with the families of accident victims. And the Board is not just involved in aviation--the NTSB leads investigations of accidents in every mode of transportation. As we discuss this reauthorization on the floor today, it is important for us to recognize the public service performed by the Board. They are a critical element of our national transportation system. Mr. Speaker, as requested by the NTSB, H.R. 3159 extends the Chairman's term for future Chairmen from 2 years to 4 in an effort to promote leaderships stability.”