My Senator's response to my opposition to User Fees

Here's what came Wednesday from Sen. Pat Roberts (R-Ks):

December 13, 2006

Mr. Dave Higdon

Wichita, KS

Dear Mr. Higdon:

Thank you for your letter regarding aviation user fees. I appreciate your taking the time to share your thoughts with me.

Currently, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) receives its funding from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund. The trust fund receives revenues generated from passenger ticket taxes, as well as aviation fuel taxes. However, these taxes are set to expire in 2007. Many proposals have been discussed regarding how to fund the FAA. One proposal suggests the imposition of user fees on the aviation industry. These user fees would be based on air traffic control services provided by the FAA. This proposal, as well as others, will be considered when Congress debates the reauthorization of the FAA.

I understand your concerns about the possible impact of user fees on the general aviation community. Recently, I and Rep. Todd Tiahrt (R-KS) hosted the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Mary Peters in Wichita to discuss our concerns regarding such an impact. In our meeting, representatives from Cessna, LearJet and Raytheon, as well as locally elected officials, stood united in our opposition to a plan that could negatively impact Kansas' economy. Secretary Peters and I will keep a constant and open dialogue during consideration of reauthorization proposals.

Rest assured, when the Senate considers the FAA reauthorization bill, I will keep your comments in mind. Again thank you for taking the time to contact me. If you would like more information on issues before the Senate, please visit my website at http://roberts.senate.gov. You may also sign up on my home page for a monthly electronic newsletter that will provide additional updates on my work for Kansas.

With every best wish,

Sincerely,

Pat Roberts PR:jl

Now, folks, anyone get a warm-and-fuzzy from this?