[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 133 (Friday, October 5, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1823]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       DISPLACED WORKERS' RELIEF

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 5, 2001

  Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, on September 21, Congress approved 
the Air Transportation Stabilization Act to provide $15 billion to help 
stabilize our nation's airlines, save jobs and moderate the negative 
economic impact of the September 11 attack. Helping our ailing aviation 
industry was important; helping the workers affected by the economic 
impact of this national tragedy is equally as important.
  Over 100,000 people who worked in the airline industry have become 
unemployed as a result of the terrorist attacks, and even more are 
expected to lose their jobs in the future. If Congress does not act 
quickly, these men and women will be unable to pay for the necessities 
of life, such as food and rent. These workers need help now.
  I encourage the leadership to work with Democrats, who have a plan to 
provide retraining programs, health insurance, and unemployment 
benefits to displaced workers and their families. This proposal will 
give critically needed assistance now, while providing workers with the 
tools necessary to find new employment and rebuild long term economic 
security for themselves and their families.
  I supported the Air Transportation Stabilization Act not only because 
it was needed to help stabilize the airline industry and our economy, 
but also because congressional leaders committed to quickly bring forth 
legislation to address the needs of displaced workers, who deserve the 
same attention and quick action Congress gave to the aviation industry. 
The time has come to make good on that promise.

                          ____________________