Space Shuttle Discovery

Washington, Jun 18, 2008 - Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich (D-OH) declared victory for NASA Glenn and Northeast Ohio when his provisions to protect NASA and its workers were included in the NASA Authorization Act of 2008, which passed the House today.

The provisions protect NASA workers from involuntary layoffs until at least January 2011, reject the Administration’s attempts to replace long-term positions with temporary positions, and provide a temporary increase in health care for workers transitioning from NASA.

As a Member of the Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia Subcommittee, Congressman Kucinich enlisted the support of Subcommittee Chairman Danny Davis (D-IL) to request inclusion of the provisions in the bill. The Chairman of the Committee on Science and Technology Bart Gordon (D-TN), included the workforce protection provisions in his amendment, which passed unanimously.

“This is a huge success for NASA Glenn and the Cleveland-area,” stated Kucinich. “Protecting these jobs and workers is the first and best way to keep NASA strong.”

“This bill helps ensure that Glenn will remain an important part of NASA’s long-term plans. It is great news for NASA Glenn and our whole community. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to be of service to the NASA employees.”