Jeff Bingaman United States Senator from New Mexico

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today voted to approve legislation aimed at improving safety and security at our nation's airports. The bill passed 75-20 and can now be sent to President Obama for his signature.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act sets aside $3.35 billion annually through fiscal year 2015 to invest in airports across the country. Some of the funding will be used to upgrade the nation's air-traffic control system.

Other funds will be dedicated to Essential Air Service in rural communities. Three New Mexico communities – Silver City/Grant County, Clovis and Carlsbad – receive funding to support commercial air service.

"Last year alone our state received $31 million in Federal Aviation Administration grants. This bill would allow us to continue to invest in New Mexico's airports, to ensure they are equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems," Bingaman said. "I'm also glad the legislation will continue to invest in rural communities that rely on Essential Air Service funding to support commercial air service."