[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 32 (Tuesday, March 21, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E361]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




WENDELL H. FORD AVIATION INVESTMENT AND REFORM ACT FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 15, 2000

  Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the rule and 
the underlying bill.
  Chairman Shuster, Ranking Member Oberstar and Representatives Duncan 
and Lipinski have worked hard to ensure that funds collected in the 
aviation trust fund are protected and used to support our Nation's 
aviation system only.
  This bill sends a strong message to the American people that we care 
about improving their lives.
  Provisions in this bill:
   authorize desperately needed funds to improve airport 
infrastructure, to reduce congestion, delays and improve safety;
   enforce passenger's rights;
   establish whistle blower protections for airline employees; 
and
   improve airline competition.
  Again, this bill sends a strong message to airline passengers, 
airline companies, and our States and that we as a Congress are 
committed to ensuring safe and efficient air travel.

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