Torres Praises House Taking Up Key Bill in ONT Transfer
WASHINGTON, DC – This Tuesday, the House of Representatives is set to debate and vote on H.R. 4369, key legislation necessary to complete the transfer of LA/Ontario International Airport to local control.
“Despite our strategic location in a growing region at the center of an important freight movement system, Ontario Airport has been neglected for far too long, impacting passenger numbers and our region’s potential for economic growth,” said Torres, whose congressional district includes the airport. “The bill that will be considered on the floor this week is a crucial and necessary step to finally completing the process to transfer Ontario Airport to local control.”
Under the settlement agreement the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) is required to pay Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) $50 million in passenger facility charges in the first five years and another $70 million in the following five years. However, Congress must pass legislation allowing for this transfer of funds from one airport authority to another to take place and ultimately for the Federal Aviation Administration to approve the agreement and grant OIAA its certificate to operate.
“Regaining local control of Ontario Airport will provide the airport with the necessary resources and attention needed for it to grow to meet rising demands and better serve the needs of the Inland Empire region,” continued Torres. “I appreciate Rep. Calvert working with me to bring this important legislation to the floor as well as the support of Inland Empire congressional delegation so that we can finalize the transition process and help Ontario Airport reach its full potential.”
H.R. 4369 is expected to be debated on the House floor on Tuesday afternoon. Once approved, it will go to the Senate for consideration. Senator Dianne Feinstein has also introduced identical legislation in the Senate, S. 2442, that is yet to be considered.