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synonymous with a profit motive where safety and efficiency are not the top priorities. That definition does NOT fit this bill today. We support this bill because it does make safety and efficiency the top priorities. We applaud the hard work that the Committee has done to develop this proposal. The legislation currently addresses NATCA's primary issues of concern. As we told you on June 7, Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.-4) proposed an alternate model for ensuring a stable, predictable funding stream for the FAA, while at the same time protecting employees and ensuring the safety of the NAS. That legislation, if enacted, would provide a stable, predictable funding stream for the NAS by taking the Airport and Airway Trust Fund "off budget." Specifically, Ranking Member DeFazio's bill would exempt the Trust Fund's uncommitted cash balance from the Congressional budget process, sequestration, and directives issued by the Office of Management and Budget. The bill also would authorize the uncommitted Trust Fund balance to be used for rebuilding and modernizing air traffic control facilities. We appreciate the effort that Ranking Member DeFazio and his staff made. After careful review, we also support the provisions of that bill. However, after introduction of his bill, Ranking Member DeFazio conceded that, "[it] likely will face some opposition from [House] appropriation leaders, who in the past have criticized 'off budget proposals.'" Although the bill was co-sponsored by all of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's minority members, it would seem to have little chance on a committee where the chairman has now introduced his own bill. We also anticipate that the Senate Commerce Committee will introduce its own FAA reauthorization bill in the coming days. That bill will likely be different than both the Chairman's and Ranking Member's bills. As we have discussed the subject with Senate staff we have learned, and media reports confirm, it will not contain a package to significantly overhaul air traffic control. Today is only the beginning stage of a legislative process with many steps. As you all know, the language in proposed legislation is often changed or amended throughout the legislative process. We will continue to track this bill to vigorously and carefully review how it would affect our members and the NAS. If, and when, there are changes to this legislation, we will review them to ensure that it continues to fully align with our organization's policies, practices, and core principles. We reserve the right to withhold our support if any change causes the bill to violate our core principles. We will continue to keep you informed on all developments as the ATC reform discussion progresses. MORE UPDATES FROM THE GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT CONGRESSIONAL SCHEDULE Both the House and Senate are in session the week of June 19. Both chambers will remain in session until the 4th of July recess. FAA REAUTHORIZATION

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