Vernon Ehlers: “this bill is absolutely essential. The first portion, to extend the AIP program, is extremely important to local…”

“this bill is absolutely essential. The first portion, to extend the AIP program, is extremely important to local airports which are in the midst of planning and construction cycles. Since the current authorization expires in less than 60 days, if we do not pass this bill, these airports will be at a loss as to what to do and how to proceed. Airports have received only half of their normal grant money for this year, and if we do not pass this bill, they will not receive the remainder. Furthermore, since airport construction projects are unique and long-term, this shortfall will create serious problems for airport planners who have to schedule these projects in phases. Beyond that, this bill gives us time to begin a larger debate about making sure that America's airport infrastructure and aviation systems are the best in the world. At this point, although I believe they are very good, they are slipping compared to the rest of the world. The debate about airport funding, safety, security and the aviation industry as a whole needs to start with this legislation.”