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WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R-MT), hailed Congress’
action today to “provide a last line of defense against air piracy”.
The House of Representatives passed Rehberg’s legislation, H.R. 4635, The
Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act, today by a wide bi-partisan vote of
310 to 113. Prior to the final vote, Rehberg took to the House floor
in strong support of his legislation and urged his colleagues to support
its passage.
“Congress voted today to provide a last line of defense for traveling
Americans by authorizing qualified, trained and deputized pilots, who volunteer
to carry firearms in the cockpit, to defend against terrorist aggressors,”
said Rehberg, a co-sponsor of the legislation passed today.
“Congress acted to put future terrorists around the globe on notice
that American air passenger flights are off limits. America’s pilots
will no longer be unarmed targets for terrorist aggression. Those
wishing to interfere with the safe operation of U.S. passenger airliners
have now been warned: you will not succeed and your evil efforts will be
met with lethal force,” concluded Rehberg.
Under the legislation the House passed today, pilots who volunteer and
complete an extensive training program and federal background check will
be deputized as federal flight deck officers and authorized to carry firearms
while piloting passenger aircrafts. |
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