PASS Members Tell Congress: Fully Fund the FAA, Repeal Sequestration

Details: Published: April 08, 2014

This week, members of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), the union representing systems specialists, aviation safety inspectors and other aviation professionals at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are in Washington, D.C., to meet with their members of Congress regarding FAA funding, staffing and modernization.

“Our key goal this week is making sure Congress hears you loud and clear,” said PASS National President Mike Perrone. “We need to make sure the FAA has the resources it needs to hire more employees, provide proper training and move forward with modernization. There is no better time for you to be here telling your members of Congress what’s important and why.”

In the opening session, Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), chair of the House Aviation Subcommittee, and Ed Wytkind, president of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD), addressed attendees. Chairman LoBiondo stressed the critical work PASS members do every day and the importance of moving forward together with all stakeholders at the table. Wytkind emphasized the significance and strength of the labor movement, telling PASS members that they are fighting the same fight as much of America.

“I thank Chairman LoBiondo and President Wytkind for taking time to meet with our members today,” said Perrone. “It is true that we cannot be successful unless we find a way to work together to develop a solution. Every single one of us has to be a player in the game.”

PASS members will continue this week to visit with their members of Congress in support of a fully funded FAA, adequate staffing levels and repealing sequestration. “There is a lot to fight for up on that Hill,” said PASS National Vice President Rich Casey. “And you are the right people for the job. Without you, our skies wouldn’t be safe. It is your time to have your voices heard.”

For more information or questions, please contact Jessica Cigich at 202.293.7277 ext. 117.

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For 37 years, PASS has represented more than 11,000 employees of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense who install, maintain, support and certify air traffic control and national defense equipment, inspect and oversee the commercial and general aviation industries, develop flight procedures and perform quality analyses of the aviation systems. For more information, visit the PASS website at www.passnational.org.