On the recordMay 12, 2016
Madam Speaker, on April 15, the Department of Transportation tentatively approved the Norwegian Air International's request for a foreign air carrier permit, which would enable it to operate flights in the United States. This decision is inconsistent with the intent of the United States- European Union Air Transport Agreement and threatens thousands of U.S. jobs by undercutting American wages and working conditions. While Norwegian Air International is owned by a Norwegian company, it operates under a flag of convenience, which allows it to dodge Norway's collective bargaining laws, tax regime, and regulatory climate. The application should be denied. I have cosponsored legislation to permit the issuance of this permit and will continue to work with my colleagues in a bipartisan fashion to ensure a level playing field for U.S. businesses and American workers. ____________________
