[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 71 (Wednesday, June 7, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1034]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 AMENDING TITLE 49, UNITED STATES CODE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 6, 2006

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of 
Congressman LaTourette's bill, H.R. 5449. I am pleased my fellow Ohioan 
has brought this important issue to the floor of the House.
  The contract negotiations between air traffic controllers and the FAA 
that began in July of 2005 have been an arduous process for both sides. 
But the resolution of the negotiation stalemate should not be an 
imposition of the FAA's most recent contract offer on the union. 
Rather, both parties should return to the bargaining table, or make use 
of another collaborative process, such as the Federal Service Impasse 
Panel, to reach a resolution.
  News reports in recent weeks have highlighted the upcoming summer 
travel season and the expected record numbers of air passengers. With 
more travelers in the air and likely delays associated with the severe 
weather of summer, he important role of air traffic controllers is even 
more vital. We need experienced controllers to ensure safe flights and 
timely arrivals. We need controllers who are able to focus on their 
jobs and not distracted by contract negotiations.
  The result of this extensive negotiation should not be the unilateral 
imposition of the FAA's will. The negotiated contract should be a 
result of a collaborative process, as Congressman LaTourette's bill 
would ensure. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5449.

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