For Immediate Release

November 2, 2001

Contact: Jim Berard

(202) 225-6260

 

 

Oberstar Calls on House and Senate to

Work Quickly on Aviation Security

 

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WASHINGTON—The Ranking Democrat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee today called on his House and Senate colleagues to make quick work of the pending aviation security bill. 

 

Rep. James L. Oberstar (D-Minn.) said Congress needs to pass effective security legislation and assure travelers that it is again safe to fly.

 

“After the tragedies of September 11, we worked quickly to provide financial relief to the airlines.  That was the right thing to do, because the airline industry is so integral to our economy,” Oberstar said.  “Now, seven—nearly eight—weeks later, we have not reached agreement on improving security at the airports and in the air.”

 

“We need to let people know that we are working to make flying as safe as it can be,” Oberstar continued.

 

Oberstar’s remarks came the day after the House rejected a Senate-passed aviation security bill in favor of its own legislation.  The House action means differences between the two bills must be resolved by a House-Senate conference committee.

 

“There were many assurances made on the floor last night that we can hold a conference and conclude work on this bill within a week.  Yet, we still haven’t appointed conferees, and that may not happen until mid-week,” Oberstar said.  “With the holiday travel season approaching, we cannot afford to waste time.  We have to act.”

 

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