[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 43 (Tuesday, March 18, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E499]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          THE EAST KERN AIRPORT DISTRICT IN MOJAVE, CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. WILLIAM M. THOMAS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 18, 2003

  Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation that 
is necessary to enhance our national security. The East Kern Airport 
District in Mojave, California, faces unique security threats.
  Although it is a General Aviation airport and does not have 
commercial passengers, the East Kern Airport District is home to high-
tech aerospace firms and provides storage to over 300 commercial 
transport aircraft. These aircraft, which are stored with fifty percent 
of their fuel tanks full, rest just minutes through the air from 
several major military installations and downtown Los Angeles.
  Since September 11, 2001, the Airport has been seeking funding to 
address these threats, as it fears a serious act of terrorism. However, 
the Airport has been repeatedly informed that no security funds are 
available for its needs because it is classified as a General Aviation 
airport.
  To correct this situation, I am introducing legislation today to 
ensure that the Undersecretary of Transportation has the authority 
needed to enhance security at the East Kern Airport District. Very 
simply, this legislation will allow the Undersecretary to provide up to 
$300,000 annually to meet the Airport's security costs and up to $1.25 
million to reimburse the East Kern Airport District for security costs 
incurred since September 11, 2001.
  I trust that my colleagues and the appropriate Department of Homeland 
Security officials will recognize the East Kern Airport District's 
unique situation and work with me to ensure that the Airport is 
adequately protected.

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