|
WASHINGTON, D.C.-Congressman Allen Boyd (D-North Florida), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, today voted in favor of an amendment to the fiscal 2006 emergency supplemental appropriations bill that would prevent Dubai Ports World, controlled by the United Arab Emirates, from taking over operations at six major U.S. ports.
The amendment was offered by Appropriations Chairman Jerry Lewis (R-California) at the House Appropriations Committee markup of the supplemental appropriations bill which includes funding for the War in Iraq and Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts. The amendment passed the House Appropriations Committee with a vote of 62-2.
"The safety and security of the American people is always my first priority," said Congressman Boyd. "My constituents have expressed deep concerns over the last few weeks with the news of the Dubai Ports transaction, and ensuring the current and future security of American ports is an integral part of our national security efforts. I hope this situation will bring about a thorough review of our seaport security, including the companies that own our ports and the safety procedures in place."
President Bush has stated that he will veto any legislation that would derail the Dubai Ports transaction. However, by amending the emergency supplemental bill, it will be difficult for the President to veto the legislation due to the included funding for the War in Iraq and hurricane recovery.
The vote on the emergency supplemental before the full House of Representatives will occur next week.
-30- |
Back to top