Press Release - Rep. Shuster Votes to Fund Critical National Security Needs

Rep. Shuster Votes to Fund Critical National Security Needs
Defense Appropriations Bill Helps Prosecute the War on Terror and Ensure the Safety of Our Troops

Washington, DC - Last night, Congressman Bill Shuster voted in favor of a bill which funds critical defense needs and includes important projects in the 9th Congressional District. This funding is vital to the ongoing Global War on Terror and also includes support for troop protection, operations, maintenance, research and development, and emergency wartime appropriations. The conference report to the Defense Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2007 passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 394 to 22.

"We owe it to our men and women in uniform to provide them with every possible advantage on the field of battle - the best weapons, vehicles, and armor available," said Shuster. "This bill will ensure our troops have the tools they need to protect our nation and win the War on Terror. In addition to these important priorities, we are also providing our troops with a well-deserved pay raise."

Shuster also secured funding in the bill for several important projects in the 9th District. Specifically, the bill provides:

- $1 million for Missile Recycling Capability, Letterkenny Munitions Center (Franklin County), funding that develops state of the art technology that would reduce the impact on the surrounding community and the environment when processing munitions.

- $1 million for Fire Support Technology Improvement (Bedford County), an important project that accelerates critical artillery fire support technology research and development needs to enhance rapid precision engagement capabilities.

- $1 million for the Wireless Maritime Inspection System (Indiana County), a program that will make a significant contribution to the Navy's efforts in the Global War on Terror by improving force protection while reducing the risks associated with military interception operations.

"These funds will have a direct impact on our economy in Franklin, Bedford and Indiana counties," Shuster said. "Investments in these important national security technologies not only benefit our military, they also mean good jobs in our area of Pennsylvania. I also worked closely with Senators Santorum and Specter on these projects and they deserve a great deal of credit, as well."

http://www.house.gov/list/press/pa09_shuster/defenseapprops.html