[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 173 (Thursday, October 26, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION BUSINESS TRAVEL CARDS ACT OF 2017

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                  HON. HENRY C. ``HANK'' JOHNSON, JR.

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 23, 2017

  Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support S. 504, the 
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Cards Act of 2017. S. 
504 would permanently authorize the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation 
Business Travel Card program, an initiative that provides expedited 
airport processing to those who are eligible.
  The program, originally created for business travelers from Asia-
Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries, expanded to include 
United States citizens after the passage of the Asia-Pacific Economic 
Cooperation Business Travel Cards Act of 2011. Without reauthorization, 
the program is set to expire on September 30, 2018.
  Georgia is home to one of the world's busiest airports, Hartsfield-
Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Atlanta residents witness 
firsthand the chaos of international travel and the need for 
streamlined processing in international airports. S. 504 would 
permanently authorize designated lanes at airports in participating 
countries, encouraging companies to continue international trade 
operations and business transactions. Ensuring smooth and efficient 
modes of transportation is critical for Americans to expand our economy 
overseas.
  As a member of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and 
member of the Aviation Subcommittee, I look for legislation that will 
streamline aviation safety, innovation, consumer service, and airport 
infrastructure. S. 504 achieves many of these goals, and that is why I 
support this legislation.