Jun 1, 2006 6:47 pm US/Central
Wright Amendment Debate Deadline Expires
by Stephanie Lucero
NORTH TEXAS (CBS 11 News) ―
The battle over whether to allow long-haul flights out of Dallas Love Field Airport is about to heat up again.
June 1st is the deadline imposed by two north Texas congressmen to resolve the Wright Amendment fight.
Dallas Mayor Laura Miller and U.S. Representative Kay Granger asked congress to delay its debate over the Wright Amendment. They wanted local leaders to find a solution.
Congress delayed, little, if any, progress was made locally, and Thursday is the last day for the self-imposed moratorium.
United States Representatives Jeb Hensarling and Sam Johnson say they waited, but they won't wait any longer for local politicians to reach a compromise.
"I am disappointed we haven't found one yet, yes, but I have to believe what the mayors are telling us that they are on track toward a solution. I believe they're having a few problems with the airline out at DFW Airport," said Johnson, (R) Texas.
American Airlines and DFW Airport oppose the repeal of the Wright Amendment. Both claim it would jeopardize one of the leading economic engines for the region.
One year ago Johnson and Hensarling introduced a bill to do away with the flight restrictions at Love Field. Now they say they have 51 co-sponsors.
"Right now we believe by delaying one year, the repeal of the Wright Amendment, the flying public has just paid an extra $688 million for inflated ticket prices," said Hensarling, (R) Texas.
The north Texas congressmen say their legislation will 'fly' through congress if put up for a vote. During a press conference at Love Field Johnson said, "Well, I tell you if we put it on the floor of the house for a vote today, it would pass and I feel confident the senate would pass it as well."
To get around the Wright Amendment nine states have filed legislation that would open the door to non-stop service to Love Field.
Johnson is steadfast in his dedication to the fight, saying, "If we have to eat the elephant one bite at a time we will, but we won't stop working until we see freedom and competition restored and the Wright Amendment repealed."
The two congressmen say they'll look at any proposal north Texas politicians come up with and Mayor Miller says she'll have something to present in a couple weeks.
(© MMVI, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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