Kucinich Declares Victories for NASA Glenn in FY07 Budget

Washington, Jan 31 -

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 31) — Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) declared three major victories for NASA Glenn in the FY07 budget that passed through the House of Representatives today.

“The passage of the continuing resolution ensures that NASA Glenn will remain at the forefront of NASA’s long-term plans,” Kucinich said. “NASA Glenn is central to Northeast Ohio’s economy and now it will continue to remain strong and healthy in the face of difficult funding restraints.”

The three victories for NASA Glenn are:

•   An increase of $166 million in aeronautics funding over the President’s budget request;
•   Ban on involuntary layoffs until September 30, 2007; and
•   Protection of aeronautics funding by preventing the NASA administrator from moving large sums of money out of NASA Glenn’s budget and funneling it toward the Administration’s priorities.

“Extending the moratorium on involuntary layoffs preserves NASA’s most valuable asset – its talented workforce.

“Aeronautics research and development has drastically improved our national security, air safety, our economy, and our environment. With $166 million increase in the budget for aeronautics, NASA’s Glenn Research Center will continue to remain world-class.

“NASA Glenn boasts a record of discovery for the public good that is the envy of the world. It has unique research facilities and some of the best scientists and engineers of our time.”

Congressman Kucinich sent a letter to Rep. Mollohan and Rep. Frelinghuysen, chair and ranking member respectively of the subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies of the Appropriations Committee. The letter was cosigned by six Members of the Ohio delegation and requested provisions that protect NASA Glenn.