Political Quotes

“10 days after terrorist attacks on September 11, the President told this body, ``We will come together to improve air safety and take new measures to prevent hijacking.'' Yet, 2 years later, our first line of defense in the air has been not yet upgraded. The flight attendants who were the first victims of the tragic accidents on that day and who are still called upon to defend passengers lives have not been given the new defensive training that they need. Working together in committee, Members of both parties drafted legislation to address this shortfall and mandate proper defense training for aircrews. Four hundred eighteen Members of the House agreed. Unfortunately, through the FAA reauthorization bill, House leadership has now removed the strong mandate and replaced it with a statement that TSA ``may'' provide training. This undermines our bipartisan work, it undermines the expectation clearly stated by the President, and it undermines the Nation's safety. I urge my colleagues to work with me to change the language back. There should be no uncertainty, no delay. Mandated training for aircrews is the will of this Congress and the will of our constituents.”