WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released this statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the FAA Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2011 (H.R. 658):

“We are ready to roll up our sleeves and get this bill done. I am confident that we can work through all the differences between the House and Senate version of this bill in the conference process, but I will focus especially close on funding for rural air service. The EAS program has always been a priority for me and other Members from rural areas who realize that this program is an economic lifeline that creates and supports jobs. I remain hopeful that, working together, we can get a comprehensive FAA bill to the president’s desk this year.”

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