National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act Of 2010

Floor Speech

National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act Of 2010

* Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4714, the National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2010. This legislation authorizes appropriations for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to conduct investigations necessary to determine the causes of transportation incidents and accidents. H.R. 4714 also clarifies the NTSB's authority to investigate incidents and calls for a collaborative effort between NTSB and the U.S. Coast Guard when investigating major maritime accidents. Further, H.R. 4714 provides the NTSB resources needed to improve safety regulations.

* I thank Chairman Oberstar for his dedication and skillful leadership in guiding this bill to the floor.

* Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4714 will also confer upon the NTSB the authority to make essential safety recommendations when NTSB investigators identify a need for immediate safety improvements. Such authority has long been enjoyed by other international accident-investigation agencies.

* This legislation benefits the 37th Congressional District of California, which I am privileged to represent. Improvements in transportation safety--whether for automobiles, airplanes, or ships--disproportionately affect my district, which is one of the most transportation-intensive in the nation. Within my district or on its borders lie five major freeways, three airports, and the largest port complex in the country. H.R. 4714 improves the safety of my constituents when they are traveling, commuting, and working.

* I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 4714.

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