By Staff Report
Alabama Political Reporter
From the Office of U.S. Congressman Mo Brooks
Washington, D.C. – Today Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL) voted yes on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Transportation Modernization and Safety Improvement Act, H.R. 658. The FAA Authorization Bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 248 to 169. The bill takes important steps to both reduce the national deficit and assist with continuing commercial airline operations at the Northwest Alabama Regional Airport in the Shoals.
Rep. Brooks stated, “Last year, I voted against the FAA Authorization Bill because it took inadequate steps to address America’s deficit while completely eliminating the Essential Air Service (EAS) that helps stimulate commercial air service to smaller, regional airports like the Northwest Alabama Regional Airport in the Shoals. I joined other House Members in sending a letter of concern about eliminating the EAS to Congressman John Mica (R-FL), Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, which has primary jurisdiction over the FAA. This letter had the desired effect.”
“Today I voted for the FAA Authorization Bill because it helps lower the deficit and continues America’s Essential Air Service policy, thereby ensuring assistance to the Northwest Alabama Regional Airport in the Shoals which should, in turn, help with continuation of commercial aviation flights,” said Rep. Brooks.
Brooks continued, “The FAA Authorization Bill cuts spending by nearly $200 million a year, supporting ongoing efforts by House Republicans to balance the federal budget. The FAA Authorization Bill also does not include any increases in taxes or Passenger Facility Charges, so it’s good news for passengers as well.”
Rep. Brooks serves on the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology, which has secondary jurisdiction over the bill.
