DeLauro Statement on News Tweed-New Haven, 148 Other Air Traffic Control Towers Will Remain Open

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) issuedthe following statement regarding the confirmation today by U.S. TransportationSecretary Ray LaHood that the Federal Aviation Administration will keep openall 149 contract towers originally slated to close in June through the end ofthe fiscal year:

"I supported legislation enabling the FAA to keep thetowers open and the FAA did the right thing today by confirming they will dojust that. Keeping the towers open will keep people employed, maintain localeconomies and ensure public safety. I will continue fighting to ensure the FAAgets the funding it needs to keep the towers open beyond September 30. But while today's announcement is good news, it does nothing to help themillions of Americans suffering because of the indiscriminate, harmful budgetcuts forced on them by congressional Republicans who refuse to negotiate a realsolution to our economic challenges. We must stop cherry-picking who gets areprieve and end these cuts for everyone. Kids are being kicked out of HeadStart and seniors are being cut from Meals on Wheels. That must stop."