[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 133 (Wednesday, September 29, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1785]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


    NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2010

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                               speech of

                         HON. LAURA RICHARDSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 28, 2010

  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure, I rise today in strong support of 
H.R. 4714, the National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act 
of 2010. This legislation authorizes appropriations for the National 
Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to conduct investigations necessary 
to determine the causes of transportation incidents and accidents. H.R. 
4714 also clarifies the NTSB's authority to investigate incidents and 
calls for a collaborative effort between NTSB and the U.S. Coast Guard 
when investigating major maritime accidents. Further, H.R. 4714 
provides the NTSB resources needed to improve safety regulations.
  I thank Chairman Oberstar for his dedication and skillful leadership 
in guiding this bill to the floor.
  Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4714 will also confer upon the NTSB the authority 
to make essential safety recommendations when NTSB investigators 
identify a need for immediate safety improvements. Such authority has 
long been enjoyed by other international accident-investigation 
agencies.
  This legislation benefits the 37th Congressional District of 
California, which I am privileged to represent. Improvements in 
transportation safety--whether for automobiles, airplanes, or ships--
disproportionately affect my district, which is one of the most 
transportation-intensive in the nation. Within my district or on its 
borders lie five major freeways, three airports, and the largest port 
complex in the country. H.R. 4714 improves the safety of my 
constituents when they are traveling, commuting, and working.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 4714.

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