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[06/17/1997 - 06/26/1997]
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122242006
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[06/17/1997 - 06/26/1997]
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RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Cynthia Coogan ( CN=Cynthia Coogan/OU=DOT/O=GOV [ UNKNOWN
CREATION DATE/TIME:17-JUN-1997 11:26:34.00
SUBJECT: White House Weekly Report for the week of February 17, 1997
TO: Cabinet Affairs ( Cabinet Affairs [ UNKNOWN ])
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
MEMORANDUM FOR ERSKINE BOWLES, THE WHITE HOUSE February 13, 1997
FROM:
Secretary Pega
SUBJECT:
DOT Weekly Report -- Week of February 17, 1997
The following is the Department of Transportation Weekly Report:
KEY DEPARTMENT NEWS
Possible Strike Against American Airlines: The Department is working
closely with various principals concerning a possible strike against
American by the Allied Pilots Association--an independent union
representing American's 9,300 pilots. We are coordinating our analysis
and monitoring efforts with both the White House staff and the National
Mediation Board. Supermediation is currently underway in Washington,
with the possibility of a total shutdown of American's world-wide
operations as a result of a walkout by the pilots, as early as 12:01 a. m.
February 15.
Military Aircraft Proximity to Civil Aircraft: On February 5, two F-16
aircraft from the Air National Guard flew near a Nations Air 727 passenger
jet, resulting in evasive action by the 727. This incident and similar
types of events in the succeeding days have led to investigations by the
NTSB, the Department of Defense, and the FAA regarding procedures
involving civil and military use of airspace. To date investigators have
visited the Washington Air Route Traffic Control Center and Washington Air
National Guard facilities. The FAA is working with the U.S. Navy to
review procedures governing special use airspace.
Secretary Designate Slater Swearing In: Mr. Rodney Slater will be sworn in
as Secretary of Transportation on February 14 in a small ceremony at the
White House. A ceremonial swearing in and reception is being planned for
February 21.
Coast Guard Accident in Washington: On February 12, the Coast Guard
responded to a distress call from a sailing vessel off the coast of
Washington. The 4 crewmen responding overturned in their 44-foot motor
lifeboat. The seas were very rough with 18-foot waves and the winds were
35 knots gusting to 45 knots. Three of the Coast Guard members died and
their bodies have been recovered. The fourth is hospitalized in good
condition. The 2 people on the sailboat were rescued just before their
boat went on the rocks and broke up. This is the first total loss of a 44
ft. motor lifeboat and the first loss of life on this type of boat. The
Coast Guard will investigate the accident. Congressional members and
staffs have been notified. There has been extensive media interest. A
memorial service has not yet been planned, but Secretary Designate Slater
will likely attend.
President's Radio Address: President Clintons Saturday radio address will
focus on DOTs efforts to improve child passenger safety. The President
will announce plans to move forward with a rule requiring uniform
anchorage/attachment systems for child seats. This is expected to save
lives and prevent injuries. A follow up media event is being planned for
next week.
Aviation Excise Tax Bill: On February 12, the House Ways and Means
Committee marked up and approved by voice vote a bill reinstating aviation
excise taxes in the short term and authorized the Treasury to transfer
taxes to the aviation trust fund. The Senate Finance Committee unan
imously approved by a voice vote legislation to reinstate theaviation
ticket tax through the end of FY97 on February 5. Senate and House floor
action is not scheduled yet.
Gore Commission: On February 11-12, the Gore Commission held a final
meeting and presented the final report to President Clinton following the
meeting. Secretary PeDa attended. Secretary designate Slater met with
the Commission members following the meeting.
Mid-size Community Air Service: On February 7, Deputy Assistant Secretary
Patrick V. Murphy attended a conference on mid-size community air service
in Chattanooga, TN. Attending the meeting were 12 communities and 10
carriers. The all-day conference was chaired by Senator Bill Frist and
Congressman Zach Wamp. The conference centered on the problems that
mid-size communities experience in receiving air service. No conclusions
were reached but Congressman Wamp expressed his intent to convene an
informal working group composed of members of the Congress to further
consider this issue.
Chicago Meigs Field Reopening: On February 10, Meigs Field in Chicago
reopened. The airport, which had been closed since October 1, 1996,
reopened after an agreement was reached between the City of Chicago and
the State of Illinois to keep the airport open for five years and then clos
e it permanently. The staffing of the control tower will be contracted
out by the FAA. There has been extensive press interest on this issue.
Two Pipeline Incidents in Washington: On February 8, a 26-inch natural gas
pipeline operated by Northwest Pipeline Corporation ruptured and ignited
in a rural area near Everson, WA. On February 9, the same 26-inch natural
gas pipeline failed and ignited near Kalama, Washington, 240 miles south
of the first incident site. Neither ruptures caused any fatalities,
injuries, or significant property damage. On February 13, the pipeline
was shut down to inspect and to determine the cause of the explosions. A
RSPA pipeline inspector arrived in Washington on February 10. The program
manager of the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission Pipeline
Safety Program will also be assisting the investigation.
Honduran Freighter Seized with Cocaine: On February 8, a Coast Guard Law
Enforcement Detachment from the Navy frigate USS CLARK boarded the
Honduran freighter GOLD STAR, enroute to Port au Prince, HA, and found
1,130 lbs. of cocaine. The vessel was seized and is being escorted to
Miami for a more detailed inspection. The master of the vessel has been
detained.
Coast Guard-Customs Seize Personal Watercraft Carrying Marijuana: On
February 8, in the waters of San Diego, the Coast Guard and Customs teamed
up to apprehend a drug trafficker on a personal watercraft (jetski). The
Cutter POINT BRIDGE, its small boat, and a Customs fast boat chased the
trafficker at high speeds, before the operator entered the water and was
injured. Approximately 220 lbs. of marijuana was found on the craft.
Colombia, United States Initial Counterdrug Agreement: On February 2, a
U.S. delegation of State Department, Joint Inter-Agency Task Force East,
and Coast Guard officials signed a draft bilateral maritime counterdrug
agreement with Colombia. The agreement, which will significantly enhance
regional law enforcement operations, will be formally signed on February
14 by the U.S. Ambassador and the Colombian Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Containership Refloated in Florida Keys: On February 8, the 652 ft.
container ship CONTSHIP HOUSTON, which ran aground on February 3 near Key
West, FL, was refloated without incident and towed to Miami for repairs.
Damage to the coral reef is widely scattered and is still being
determined. The responsible party for the ship has posted a $6 million
Letter of Undertaking to cover potential claims from the National Marine
Sanctuary and the State of FL.
ValuJet: ValuJet is seeking to expand service to Akron, OH, starting
March 6. This is contingent on FAAs review and approval. The carrier has
agreed that if it does not receive timely FAA approval of any new station,
it will pay to accommodate its passengers on other carriers, regardless of
cost.
U.S. Carrier Implementation of the Warsaw Liability Waiver Agreement:
Effective February 6, twelve U.S. carriers filed tariffs implementing the
three IATA/ATA Agreements waiving the $75,000 international passenger
liability limit applicable under the Warsaw Convention. The ATA
Agreement, subscribed to only by U.S. carriers, waives the Warsaw limit in
its entirety; provides for strict liability up to 100,000 SDRs
(approximately $139,000), and provides for application of the law of the
domicile or permanent residence of the passenger regardless of where a
suit may be brought. The twelve carriers are American, American Eagle,
AMR Combs, Continental Airlines, Continental Micronesia, Delta, Hawaiian,
Northwest, Tower Air, TWA, United, and USAir.
California Emergency Funds Update: Approximately 18 state highways are
still closed because of storm damage. About eight state highways are
partially closed, permitting only one-way controlled traffic. Two major
corridors reopened: State Route 70 north of Oroville, closed since New
Year's has been opened, and State Route I south of Monterey with a 30
mile stretch closed since New Year's has also been reopened. The
estimated ER cost for damage to Federal-aid highways is currently at $381
million.
Bill to Impose Speed Limit Introduced in Montana: The Montana State
Legislature is introducing a bill setting a numerical speed limit of 75
mph for the Interstate and 65 mph for other roads. Montanas current law
provides for a reasonable and prudent speed limit.
Comment Period Closes on NHTSAs Air Bag Regulation Changes: On February
5, the open public comment period closed on the two proposed air bag
regulation changes. On January 6, NHTSA proposed two specific regulatory
changes: (1) a new regulation that would permit vehicle owners to have
their air bag disconnected without obtaining a waiver from the government,
and (2) a change in the vehicle test procedure that would permit
depowering of air bags. As of February 6, the agency has received 424
public comments concerning air bag deactivation and 145 public comments on
air bag depowering.
Child Passenger Safety/Air Bag Safety Awareness Week: The week of February
9-15 is National Child Passenger Safety/Air Bag Safety Awareness Week.
NHTSA Administrator Martinez was available to the media on February 11 at
a child safety seat checkpoint that was held in collaboration with the DC
Metropolitan Police Department and the DC SAFE KIDS Coalition. The
checkpoint was to highlight the safe transport of children, particularly
in vehicles with passenger side air bags.
Presidential Initiative on Drugs, Driving and Youth: On February 7, the
Report on the Presidential Initiative on Drugs, Driving and Youth was
delivered to the White House with a cover letter from Secretary Peda and
Barry R. McCaffrey, Director of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). The
report included recommendations to conduct a state demonstration program
for drug testing of youth applying for a drivers license; state incentive
grants to improve state drugged driving laws; increased Federal assistance
to improve state drugged driving enforcement, prosecution, adjudication,
and publicity; and expanded drug prevention, education, and treatment so
that youth know about drug use and the drugged driving consequences and to
help young drivers who are identified with drug abuse problems receive the
treatment they need. The White House is expected to announce the Report
soon, possibly as early as February 17.
BART/SFO Congressional Inquiries: On February 11, the Department sent to
Representative Wolf, the joint FAA/FTA response, coordinated through this
office, to his questions regarding the San Francisco International
Airports financial support for the transit extension. Additional inquirie
S from Senators Shelby and McCain will be answered shortly. San Francisco
Mayor Willie Brown will host a meeting on February 13, originally to be
convened by Senator Feinstein, among airport, BART and airline
representatives in an attempt to reach agreement over whether BART will
pay rent to the airport. The public comment period for the FAAs proposed
policy--allowing airports to offer below market rents to public
transit-ends February 18.
Wisconsin Central Railroad Signs Agreement to Improve Safety: On February
7, FRA, signed a Safety Compliance Agreement with the Wisconsin Central
Railroad to improve railroad safety throughout the railroads four-state,
300-mile transportation network. A 1996 FRA safety audit found the
railroads accident rate for 1996 was nearly double all other U.S.
railroads and 72 percent greater than all other railroads in its category,
leading FRA to conclude that strict remedial measures were necessary
immediately.
NOTABLE CONGRESSIONAL ACTIVITY
Highway Infrastructure Privatization Act: On February 5, Senator Chafee
introduced the Highway Infrastructure Privatization Act, legislation
designed to allow the private sector to take a more active role in
building and operating our nations highway infrastructure. The
legislation, co-sponsored by Senators Warner, Bond and Moynihan, sets up a
pilot program allowing 15 infrastructure projects designed and built by
private contractors to use tax exempt bonds for financing.
Trust Funds Off-Budget: On February 5, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee approved by voice vote H.R. 4, the Truth in
Budgeting Act, legislation introduced by Chairman Shuster to move the four
transportation trust funds off-budget.
National Parks Overflights Act: On February 5, Senator McCain
introduced the National Parks Overflights Act of 1997. The Senator
intends to use the legislation to begin a dialogue on how best to balance
safety and natural quiet with access to the parks.
ISTEA Hearings: On February 13, the Senate Committee on Environment and
Public Works will hold a transportation overview hearing. Issues to be
covered include transportation trends, infrastructure funding
requirements, and the impact of transportation on the economy. Deputy
Secretary Mortimer Downey will testify on behalf of the Department. The
second panel of witnesses will include representatives from AAMA, AASHTO
and ENO. Two additional hearings on ISTEA reauthorization legislation are
scheduled for February 26 by the Senate Committee on Environment and
Public Works and February 27 by the House Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure.
AMTRAK Hearing: On February 25, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads will hold a hearing on Amtraks
financial situation. A Department witness will testify.
State Boating Safety Grant Program Hearing: On February 26, the House
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee will hold a hearing on
reauthorization of the State Boating Safety Grant Program. The Coast
Guard is expected to testify.
Deputy Secretary
February 15
The Deputy Secretary will address the Transportation Trades Department
AFL-CIOs (TTD) Executive Committee Meeting.
Modal Administrators/Assistant Secretaries
February 14-18
RSPA Administrator Dr. D.K. Sharma will participate in the American
Association for the Advancement of Sciences Annual Meeting in Seattle, WA.
February 18
The FAA Acting Deputy Administrator, Monte Belger, will attend a Managers
meeting with FAA officials in Palm Coast, FL.
February 19
Admiral Kramek will attend the Reserve Officers Association mid-Winter
Conference.
February 19-20
The SLSDC Administrator will attend a Seaway Advisory Board meeting in
West Palm Beach, FL.
February 20
FTA Administrator Linton will speak at the Black History program in
Philadelphia, PA.
February 21
The Associate Deputy Secretary, Michael P. Huerta, will address the
Industrial College of Armed Forces in Washington, D.C.
February 24
The Acting FAA Deputy Administrator will attend the annual Masstricht Air
Traffic Control Conference in Brussels.
February 25
The Associate Deputy Secretary, Michael P. Huerta, will be speaking before
the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association in Washington, D.C.
The SLSDC Deputy Administrator, David Sanders, will attend a meeting of
the full bi-national Steering Committee in Ottawa with Administrator Gail
McDonald, and Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs,
Charles Hunnicutt, representing the Department.
February 26
Admiral Kramek will speak at the National Defense University.
The SLSDC Administrator will be speaking at a Rotary Club Luncheon in
Watertown, NY.
February 26 - March 3
Admiral Kramek will visit Coast Guard units in the State of Washington.
February 27
The SLSDC Administrator will host a tour of Snell Lock for reporters to
view the winter
maintenance program.
February 28
FTA Administrator Linton will be the speaker at the Transit Institute of
the North Carolina A&TUniversity for their program on ISTEA.
NHTSA Administrator Ricardo Martinez will give remarks at the State
Association of Chiefs of Policy in Washington, D.C.
March 4
Admiral Kramek will address the CG Marine Safety Officers Conference in
Washington.
March 5
Admiral Kramek will attend The Interdiction Committee (TIC) working lunch.
NHTSA Administrator Ricardo Martinez will be a panelist at the Mid-Year
Meeting of State and Provincial Police in Annapolis, MD.
March 5-6
Admiral Kramek will host the Coast Guard Senior Advisory Group.
March 6
Admiral Kramek will speak at the ONDCP Public Affairs meeting in
Washington.
March 12
Admiral Kramek will testify at the Coast Guard appropriations hearing.
March 13
Admiral Kramek will speak to flag and general officers participating in
the CAPSTONE program.
Vice Admiral Herr will visit the CG Petty Officers Academy in Petaluma, CA.
March 18-20
Admiral Kramek will host the Coast Guard Flag Officers/SES Conference at
Andrews Air Force Base.
March 21
NHTSA Deputy Administrator Philip Recht will speak at the 1997 Annual
Meeting of the
Automotive Occupant Restraints Council in Tucson, AZ.
March 24
Admiral Kramek will attend the USO Annual Awards dinner in Washington.
March 26
Admiral Kramek will give the State of the Coast Guard address in
Washington, D.C.
PRESS/MEDIA INQUIRIES
(New listings above asterisk)
A number of profile interview requests have been received for
Secretary-designate Slater, including NPR, C-Span, KARK (NBC, Little Rock),
Congressional Quarterly and Traffic World.
NBC Meet the Press requests an appearance for Sunday, February 16, in the
event of an American Airlines strike.
FAA received numerous media inquiries concerning civilian aviation
encounters with Air Force jets.
MSNBC has requested a live appearance by Secretary Peda following the
presentation of the Gore Commission report.
FHWA Deputy Administrator Garvey was interviewed by several reporters
following Deputy Secretary Downeys FY 1998 budget briefing, February 6.
These included the Chicago Sun-Times, Blade Communications, Inside DOT,
Engineering News Record and ITS World.
FHWA Deputy Administrator Garvey was interviewed on the Washington Review
program, sponsored by the American Trucking Association. The show is fed
via satellite to more than 2,000 downlink sites around the country. The
interview focused on ISTEA reauthorization, highway safety and the
importance of transportation to the economy.
Nancy Keats, Dow-Jones, is writing for a column on DOT oversight and
consumer complaints dealing with charter airline operations. She spoke to
the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection February 10. Publication
expected next week.
The Wall Street Journal is preparing an article on the status of the
commuter rule and voluntary compliance program. Reporter received
background briefings February 4. Publication date not known.
USA Today is preparing an article about enforcement actions taken against
COMAIR. Reporter has submitted an FOIA. Publication date not known.
***
U.S. News and World Report is doing a story on U.S./Mexican relations
(cover story for end of February). The Coast Guard has provided
information on counter drug smuggling successes in the past two months and
expects a follow-on interview.
Scientific American, February 3, requested an interview with Deputy
Secretary Downey regarding how U.S. cities should address their commuting
problems. Publication date unknown.
The Washington Post, February 4, interviewed NHTSA in connection with an
unpublished 1976 analysis of air bag effectiveness. The Post will write
from a historical perspective of dealing with the air bag issue 20 years
ago. Publication date is not known.
NBC visited LaGuardia January 22 to film FAAs Weather Support for Deicing
Decisionmaking testbed. Segment to air February 19.
A Washington Post reporter visited several Terminal Doppler Weather Radar
installations and the DCA tower. A graphics-oriented feature is expected
in mid-February.
Jack Anderson's column is looking into security spending and whether the
amount of funds devoted to the area is inappropriate. Publication date
unknown.
The Houston Chronicle is expected to run a story on the nation's pipeline
system this month.
Prime Time Live will do a story in January or February on the TWA 800
accident, and using inert gases to reduce flammability of empty fuel tanks.
AP, January 3, called concerning an article on accidents involving school
bus handrails that snag drawstrings on children's clothing. NHTSA
provided historic information about injuries and its news releases
containing warnings and recall information. This appears to be a feature
story and may not be published immediately.
Jack Anderson's column requested information on service interruptions,
technical upgrade and GAO report. A background interview was conducted,
column is expected.
****
FOIA REQUESTS
ABC News 20/20: Investigations of elevator accidents and inspection and
maintenance of elevators in DOT buildings from 1992 to 1996.
WHDH-TV-7: Air traffic control tapes of an accident in January 1997 near
Lake Winnipesaukee involving the pilot and passenger being overcome by
carbon monoxide.
KMFG-7: Air traffic control tapes between United Airlines Flight #7169 and
Emery Air Freight at Denver International Airport on January 7, 1997.
****
Point of Contact: For the weekend of February 15-16, Nancy McFadden will
be the contact. She can be reached at (202) 537-0266 (home) or through
the FAA Operations Center at (202) 267-3333.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Cynthia Coogan ( CN=Cynthia Coogan/OU=DOT/O=GOV [ UNKNOWN]
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 17:22:53.00
SUBJECT: White House Weekly Report for the Week of June 23, 1997
TO: Cabinet Affairs ( Cabinet Affairs [ UNKNOWN
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
MEMORANDUM FOR ERSKINE BOWLES, THE WHITE HOUSE
June 18, 1997
FROM:
Secretary Slater
SUBJECT:
DOT Weekly Report -- Week of June 23, 1997
The following is the Department of Transportation Weekly Report:
KEY DEPARTMENT NEWS
State Infrastructure Bank (SIB) Pilot Program: On June 19, Secretary
Slater announced that 29 additional states have been approved to establish
innovative state infrastructure banks (SIBs), bringing to 39 the total
number of states participating in the Departments SIB program. The
Department is announcing that $150 million is being allocated among the 39
states participating in the pilot program. Each state will receive a
minimum share of the $150 million, with the remainder divided according to
each states commitment to capitalize their SIB. The Administration has
increased investment in public use infrastructure from an average of $21.1
billion between 1990 and 1993, to an average of $25.5 billion between 1994
and 1997. Under the budget agreement recently reached between the
President and Congress, this investment will increase to an average of
$27.6 billion between 1998 and 2001.
Secretary Slater, Commandant Honor Alex Haley: On June 17, Secretary
Slater, Admiral Kramek, Mr George Haley, and actress Jasmine Guy
officiated at a ceremony in the DOT Plaza in recognition of the 20th
anniversary of the book ROOTS, and its author and former Coast Guardsman,
Alex Haley. Secretary Slater announced that the Coast Guard will name a
Coast Guard cutter after Alex Haley.
APEC Ministerial Meeting: On June 21-24, Secretary Slater will travel to
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, for the Asia-Pacific Economic Council
meeting. Secretary Slater has invited approximately 125 transportation
industry CEOs to join him as part of the U.S. delegation to the second
meeting of APEC Transportation Ministers. U.S. industry representatives
will be able to participate in a government-industry symposium to discuss
critical transportation issues with the Ministers and to determine future
opportunities for public-private cooperation in developing the region's
transportation system. A second industry forum will focus on
infrastructure development and overcoming barriers to growth in the
region.
Secretary signs Open-Skies with New Zealand: On June 18, Secretary
Slater
signed formally the United States-New Zealand
"Open-Skies" Aviation Agreement.
Transport Minister Jenny
Shipley signed on behalf of New Zealand.
Secretary to sign Open-Skies with Malaysia: On June 12, representatives
of the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and the Malaysian Ministry of
Transport initialed the text of an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement.
Secretary Slater will sign formally the agreement on behalf of the United
States on June 21 when he meets in San Francisco with his Malaysian
counterpart.
Secretary Travels to CA: On June 21, Secretary Slater will attend a
meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in San Francisco, CA. The
Secretary will also make a $30.9 million grant announcement for 36 trolley
buses and rehabilitation of a maintenance facility in San Francisco.
Mayor Brown will accept on behalf of the city.
Secretary to Attend Grant Agreement Signing: On June 20, Secretary Slater
will participate in a signing ceremony for a FFGA to extend the
Sacramento, CA light rail transit system 6.3 miles. This is one of the
six FFGAs which the Administration announced an intent to enter into in
March, 1996. He will also present a $7.9 million grant to begin land
acquisition and construction of the extension.
NSTC Transportation Research and Development Committee Meeting: On June
18, Deputy Secretary Downey chaired a NSTC Transportation Research and
Development Committee meeting. Participants reviewed the progress of NSTC
interagency teams in developing investment plans for the proposed
transportation partnership initiatives and research and education agenda.
Access Control Problems at Miami International Airport: FAA Security is
investigating apparent falsification of background/employment checks by
Million Air, a cargo carrier at Miami International Airport. The problems
were discovered by an INS sweep of Million Airs facility. It found a
number of employees who are illegal aliens but have been issued IDs
authorizing unescorted access to the airports secure areas.
Drugs Found on American Trans Air (AMTA): On June 10, a mechanic
performing routine maintenance on an AMTA aircraft at St. Louis found four
large suitcases containing 800 pounds of marijuana. The aircraft had
arrived on June 9 from Montego Bay. ACS Security is working with Customs
to determine where the bags were placed on the aircraft. Security
concerns center on security of the aircraft and access controls at St.
Louis, Montego Bay, and other airports at which the aircraft recently
operated.
CSX Accidents and Audit Review: On June 16, a team from FRA met with CSX
officials in Jacksonville, FL to discuss an action plan addressing the
safety concerns of FRA following the recent accidents in Cyprus, FL and
Scary, WV. FRA will audit CSXs efficiency tests and procedures, begin a
review of the CSX Dispatch Center in Jacksonville, FL and inspect rail
defect reports and track maintenance procedures.
Investigation into Vandalism of Pan American World Airways Aircraft at
Kennedy International Airport: On June 11, during a preflight maintenance
inspection at the TWA Terminal at JFK, several severed wires were found on
a Pan American World Airways Airbus 300. FAA and the FBI are
investigating. There has been considerable media reporting on the incident
U.S. Coast Guard and Haiti Seize Suspect Boat: On June 10, the Coast
Guard Cutter THETIS, with an embarked Haitian ship riders, encountered a
suspicious boat off Haiti. The boat headed to shore where 5 suspected
smugglers escaped. Although no contraband was found, the Haitian
government took possession of the boat. The Cutter THETIS was operating
in support of Operation FRONTIER ADVANCE, a joint United States-Haitian
counter narcotics operation centered around Haiti.
Update to Missing Coast Guard Helicopter in Humboldt Bay, CA: A massive
search covering 27,000 square miles (roughly equivalent to the State of
Maine) by 5 Coast Guard Cutters and 43 Coast Guard, Navy, and Air Force
search flights was suspended on June 12 after yielding only small pieces
of the helicopter. The 4 Coast Guard aircrew, LT Jeffrey Crane, LTJG
Charles Thigpen, AD3 Richard Hughes, and ASM3 James Caines are presumed
lost. Acting on a Coast Guard request, the Navy is deploying deep
submergence surveillance equipment to the crash area to assist in the
ongoing investigation. Admiral Kramek officiated at a formal memorial
ceremony at Coast Guard Air Station Humboldt Bay on June 16. A Coast
Guard C-130 flew members of the immediate family over the crash site for a
wreath-laying ceremony afterwards. Secretary Slater spoke with the
relatives of the missing Coast Guardsmen by phone.
Drilling Rig Explosion: On June 16, 30 miles NW of Morgan City, LA, an
uninspected drilling rig experienced a natural gas explosion and fire.
Two persons are reported dead, two remain missing, and 18 were evacuated.
Damage to the rig is estimated to be at $10-12 million. No waterways have
been reported closed. The Coast Guard is on scene and assisting the
Federal On Scene Coordinator. The operator, Denby Management, Inc., has
hired well control and spill response companies to extinguish the fire and
reduce pollution.
Tanker Runs Aground in Texas, Refloated Safely: On June 15, the U.S.
Tanker DENEB ran aground outside the Sabine, TX channel. It was loaded
with 521, 110 barrels of crude oil. Tugs were able to safely refloat the
tanker on June 16. The Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Port Arthur
monitored the situation. An underwater hull survey is now being conducted
on the tanker.
TWA 800 Search Leader Commander Retires: Rear Admiral John Linnon,
Commander, First Coast Guard District (New York, New England) and
commander of all Coast Guard search operations for TWA Flight 800 will
retire after nearly 40 years of Coast Guard service in a formal ceremony
in Boston, MA on June 28.
FAA Opens Door for More Controllers in New York, New Jersey: On June 11,
in a report to Congress, the FAA announced that the three major New York
area air traffic control towers will meet or exceed authorized staffing
levels by the end of fiscal year 1997. By the end of fiscal year 1998,
the larger facilities, the New York air route traffic control center and
New York terminal radar approach control, will also have achieved their
hiring goals.
Aviation - Brunei: In April, the United States and Brunei initialed the
text of an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement. It is anticipated that the
agreement will be signed on June 20 at the State Department.
Aviation - Barbados: Aviation negotiations with Barbados will be held in
Washington on June 19-20 to discuss the desire of Barbados for new route
and code-sharing authority. The U.S. will seek an "Open-Skies" agreement.
Aviation - Egypt: Negotiations with Egypt are scheduled for the week of
June 23 in Washington. Egypt requested the talks to discuss the expansion
of civil aviation services between the United States and Egypt.
Aviation - France: The French have agreed to resume aviation negotiations
in Paris on July 9-11 looking toward a liberal aviation agreement. While
the U.S. is seeking an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement phased in over a
3-year period, the French have proposed a 9-year phase culminating in a
liberal arrangement for U.S.-France services only.
Fly Quiet in Chicago: On June 17, FAA Great Lakes Regional Administrator
Cecelia L. Hunziker joined the Chicago Department of Aviation for a press
conference to announce a joint effort on noise control. This represents a
partnership with OHare and Midway noise compatibility commissions,
airlines, City of Chicago, other local communities surrounding OHare and
the FAA. Efforts include soundproofing homes and schools surrounding
OHare and Midway Airports.
NHTSA Pursues Automated Collection Notification(ACN) System: The NTSB, at
their Board Meeting on June 10, talked about a black box for automobiles.
As part of NHTSAs overall plan to improve highway safety and to
facilitate the development and implementation of Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS), NHTSA is conducting an Operational Field
Test of an ACN System (black box). This operational test commenced in
October 1995 with the signing of a cooperative agreement between the
Calspan Corporation and NHTSA. Between October, 1995 and June, 1997 the
ACN system was designed and fabricated. From July to November, the
systems will be installed in 1,000 volunteers vehicles. The start of data
collection will coincide with the installation of the system and will
continue for approximately 1 year. At the conclusion of data collection a
final report, addressing the system performance in detail, will be issued.
Pennsylvania Avenue: On June 2, the Department of Treasury publicly
released the Environmental Assessment on the Implementation of White House
Security Review Vehicular Traffic Restriction Recommendations for the
Pennsylvania Avenue. On June 16 and 18, the chief of staff and FHWA
officials attended a White House meeting to discuss potential remedial
traffic measures.
NTSB Finding in Amtrak Silver Spring Accident: On June 17, the NTSB
issued the probable cause for the 1996 Amtrak/MARC accident that resulted
in the deaths of 12 people at Silver Spring, MD. The NTSB cited the
engineer, train crew, FRA, FTA, CSX Railroad and MARC as contributing to
the cause of the accident. Specifically, the NTSB was critical of the FRA
and FTA for failing to conduct a comprehensive human factors analysis
before allowing the signal on the CSX line to be removed. The NTSB issued
13 recommendations to FRA, 3 to the FTA and I to the Department.
Piper PA-32 Landing Gear Collapse at National Airport: On June 16, a
Piper PA-32 experienced the collapse of its left main landing gear after
landing on Runway 15 at Washington National Airport. The airplane came to
rest at the intersection of Runways 15 and 18, closing the airport for
about one hour causing six aircraft to be delayed a maximum of 31
minutes. Prior to landing, the pilot reported landing gear problems and
performed a fly-by. The tower controllers reported that the gear appeared
to be extended. The three occupants were uninjured, but the aircraft
sustained minor damage to the bottom of the left wing. An FAA inspector
participated in the NTSBs on-scene investigation. The NTSB is continuing
its investigation into the cause of the gear failure.
General Electric Engines Airworthiness Directive: On June 17, FAA issued a
final rule airworthiness directive requiring replacement of existing fan
guards with new, improved fan containment guards to be accomplished within
two years on 200 aircraft which have General Electric CF700 series turbo
fan engines. This is the result of an accident in Paris wherein
uncontained fan blades separated from the engine during an overspeed,
resulting in engine failure and a subsequent crash.
Submission of Aviation Accident Plans: After substantial compliance
efforts by the Department and NTSB, all operating air carriers have now
filed aviation accident plans as required under the Family Assistance
Act. No new air carrier or air carrier whose authority has been suspended
will be allowed to operate without first filing the required plan.
NTSB/TWA 800 Update: FAA and NTSB staff met on June 18 to discuss the
status of FAA action on the NTSB recommendations, the data supporting
those recommendations, and what other activities the FAA has accomplished
since the recommendations were issued. FAA has placed a notice in the
Federal Register asking for public comment on the NTSB recommendations by
August 1. FAA is completing a formal report that summarizes our
assessment of a possible TWA 800 accident scenario that may lead to an FAA
airworthiness directive to inspect B-747 airplane wires in the inboard
wing tanks. That report is due to be transmitted to NTSB by the end of
June. FAA is working with Boeing to conduct detailed inspections of ten
B-747 aircraft that have recently been taken out of service to assess the
condition of the center fuel tank components. FAA is also publicly
supporting Boeing's program to work with the airlines to inspect older
B-747 aircraft to evaluate the condition of the wiring and other fuel tank
components. FAA is also encouraging international aviation authorities to
ask their airlines to support this action.
Acquisition Management System Report: On June 18, FAA issued a report on
its internal review of our one-year old acquisition management system for
acquiring goods and services. The review shows that the new system is
saving time and money for both the agency and the companies that bid for i
ts contracts, cutting the time to award contracts greater than $100,000 by
more than a third. Based on interviews with industry executives, the
reforms have saved industry an estimated 30-40 percent over previous bid
and proposal costs. The report also outlines several areas where the FAA
could improve our system. This internal evaluation complements a
congressionally-mandated independent review of the FAA's acquisition
system, which will be done by Booz-Allen & Hamilton, Inc., and should be
completed this fall.
NTSB Hearing: On June 17, NTSB met to review the Delta MD-88 accident in
which the aircraft struck approach lights and a runway support pier while
landing at LaGuardia Airport in NY. The Board will issue a probable cause
and recommendations.
Great Lakes Airlines Update: After voluntarily suspending service to 80
cities on May 16, at the request of the FAA, the carrier has now been
permitted to resume service to 19 cities. Thirteen of their 58 aircraft
have been returned to service.
Maritime Security Program - Lykes Transfer of Contracts/Foreign Interest:
MARAD is continuing its review of Lykes latest submissions in its
application for MARAD approval of a reorganization in bankruptcy and a
proposed asset sale and vessel charter to a subsidiary of Canadian Pacific
Ltd. Final determination in this matter is expected by the end of June.
Japan/China Maritime Talks: Talks will be held with Japan beginning June
23, and with China beginning June 25. Japan has not made progress in
resolving U.S. carrier doing business problems in Japanese ports as
anticipated under a recent Memorandum of Consultations (MOC). With China,
a negotiated solution was reached a year ago that would allow U.S.
carriers to engage in freight forwarding. The Chinese have created a new
roadblock to prevent that solution from taking effect. The Department
hopes to make progress in eliminating these problems.
$1.2 for Lansing Intermodal Transit Center: On June 13, Secretary Slater
announced the award of $1.2 million in FTA funds for the Capital Area
Transportation Authority for the construction of the intermodal Ground
Transportation Center in downtown Lansing.
FTA Grants Awarded: On June 16, FTA awarded $10.8 million to the Maryland
Mass Transit Administration for articulated buses for Baltimore, MD, and
replacement buses for Montgomery County, MD. Also on June 16, FTA awarded
$1.1 to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the expansion of a
park-n-ride facility. On June 13, FTA awarded $14.8 to the City of
Richmond, VA for the rehabilitation of a downtown multimodal
transportation center.
Federal Harbor Maintenance Tax Found Unconstitutional: On June 3, the
United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed an earlier
decision of the United States Court of International Trade, that had held
that the federal ad valorem Harbor Maintenance Tax imposed on cargo moving
through U.S. ports is unconstitutional under the Export Clause of the
Constitution insofar as it is levied on export cargo. In addition to
providing the sole source for all federally-funded harbor maintenance and
dredging projects, the Harbor Maintenance Tax also provides virtually all
of the funding for the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation.
Since the Federal Circuit's decision involves only the collection of fees
on export shipments, it does not at this juncture end the Harbor
Maintenance Tax in its entirety. The Commercial Litigation section of the
Justice Department intends to ask the Solicitor General's Office to seek
certiorari review of the decision before the Supreme Court. The Office of
General Counsel is working on a letter to the Justice Department
supporting Supreme Court review.
Revision of Gate Requirements for High-Lift Device Controls: On June 9, a
NPRM to amend Part 25 of the Federal Aviation Regulations to revise the
requirements concerning gated positions on the control used by the pilot
to select the position of an airplanes high-lift devices was published in
the Federal Register. The proposed amendment would update the current
standards to take into account the multiple configurations of the
high-lift devices provided on current airplanes to perform landings and
go-around maneuvers. The proposed amendment would also harmonize these
standards with those being proposed for the European Joint Aviation
Requirements. The comment period will close September 8.
Emergency Relief for South Dakota, Ohio: On June 16, Secretary Slater
announced an award of $14.2 million in FHWA emergency relief funds to
continue repairs on federal-aid roads and bridges in South Dakota damaged
during spring flooding. In addition, to help Ohio in its flood-recovery
efforts, Secretary Slater announced that the state would receive $18.9
million in FHWA emergency relief funds to repair damage from storms and
flooding in February and March.
Emergency Relief Funds - Idaho: Bingham and Jefferson counties in
eastern Idaho declared a state of emergency on June 11 under the Governors
May 18 statewide Emergency Proclamation because of flooding of the Snake
River. The Idaho Transportation Department is taking measures in the Bla
ckfoot area to keep the Snake River from flooding I-15. The situation may
get worse because many of the reservoirs are at capacity. The only road
closure is on Route 33 in the Driggs area.
Emergency Relief - Federal Lands: The Western Federal Lands Highway
Division (WFLHD) reports the rapid melting of above average snowpack in
northern parts of Washington and Idaho and in western Montana is causing
severe flood damage. The Colville Indian Reservation recently suffered up
to $2 million in road and bridge damage. Eight National Forests in
Hidaho and Montana have road and bridge damage estimated at $4 million.
The Bureau of Land Management in Idaho is also reporting damage.
WORK ON PRESIDENTIAL POLICY PRIORITIES
WELFARE TO WORK
Transportation Workshops: On June 24, the FTA and HHS in Boston, MA will
convene a meeting of stakeholders involved in planning and providing
transportation services for welfare recipients. These regional
"welfare-to-work" meetings will bring together state and local human
services officials to examine the issue of transportation in implementing
the states' welfare reform implementation plans throughout the nation.
SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT
Mid-America Regulatory Commissioners Discuss Pipeline Safety: RSPA is
participating on a panel, Safety and Environmental Concerns in Natural
Gas Expansion, at the Mid-America Regulatory Commissioners Conference
Business Program in Des Moines, IA on June 16-17. Other participants at
the conference include Vice President Al Gore and FCC Chairman Reed
Hundt. The Mid-America Conference provides senior policy makers with an
opportunity to exchange views on a host of regulatory issues.
NOTABLE CONGRESSIONAL ACTIVITY
Press Conference: On June 12, Congressman Wolf held a press conference on
management of the FAA. He expressed serious concern about what he called
a lack of leadership at the FAA, deliberately misleading Congress on the
Potomac project, air traffic staffing issues, lack of Doppler weather
radars and wasting taxpayer dollars.
Congestion Mitigation Air Quality: On June 18, the House Commerce
Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing on the Congestion
Mitigation Air Quality program. Kevin Heanue, Director of the Office of
Environment and Planning, Federal Highway Administration, will testify on
behalf of the Department, along with a representative from the EPA.
U.S. Japan Bilateral Negotiations: On June 19, the Senate Commerce,
Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation will hold a hearing on
U.S.-Japan bilateral negotiations. Assistant Secretary for International
Affairs Charlie Hunnicutt will testify.
Garvey Nomination: On June 26, the Senate Commerce, Science and
Transportation Committee will hold a hearing on the nomination of Jane
Garvey to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
Air Traffic Control Technology: On June 24, the House Science
Subcommittee on Technology will hold a hearing on air traffic control
technology. A witness from the FAA will testify.
Market-Based Solutions to Air Service Problems for Medium-Sized Communities
: On June 25, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on
Aviation will hold a hearing on market-based solutions to air service
problems for medium-sized communities. The Department will testify.
National Airways System Modernization: On July 7, the Senate Commerce,
Science and Transportation Committee will hold a hearing on national
airway system modernization.
Budget Reconciliation: On June 11, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee approved, by voice vote, a $736 million
reconciliation plan, which provides the transportation component of the
additional revenues necessary to implement the budget resolution. Of the
$736 million, $500 million is derived from the sale of Governors Island,
$196 million from an extension of the vessel tonnage fee on vessels
visiting U.S. ports and $50 million from the sale of air rights over Union
Station.
On June 17, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee will
mark up its budget reconciliation plan.
ISTEA Developments: House and Senate staff continue to meet to discuss
ISTEA reauthorization legislation. However, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee and the Senate Environment and Public Works
Committee do not appear ready to introduce committee bills any time soon.
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Shuster has stated
that he is still reviewing options following the recent budget vote.
Environment and Public Works Committee Members remain divided over their
support for STEP 21, ISTEA Works or STARS 2000 legislation.
Full Funding Grant Agreements: Five Republican Members of the Senate
Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation have written to the
Secretary requesting that the Department refrain from executing any new
Full Funding Grant Agreements prior to the reauthorization of ISTEA. The 5
Members were Senators Domenici, Bond, Bennett, Gorton and Faircloth.
Secretary's Schedule
June 20-21
Secretary Slater will attend a meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in
San Francisco, CA.
June 21-24
Secretary Slater travels to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, for the
Asia-Pacific Economic Council meeting.
The Deputy Secretary
June 23
The Deputy Secretary will participate in the Intelligent Transportation
Society of
NYS's Annual Conference in Cooperstown, NY.
June 25
The Deputy Secretary will deliver remarks at the St. Louis Regional
Commerce & Growth Association's Annual Leadership Conference in
Washington, DC.
July 23-25
The Deputy Secretary will participate in AMTRAK meetings in Los Angeles,
CA.
August 5
The Deputy Secretary will participate in the Institute of Transportation
Engineers' Annual Meeting in Boston, MA.
August 7
The Deputy Secretary will attend the joint ITS America/National Automated
Highway Systems Consortium (NAHSC) "Technical Feasibility Demonstration"
in San Diego, CA.
August 11-12
The Deputy Secretary will attend the ITS America Board Meetings in San
Diego, CA.
Modal Administrators/Assistant Secretaries
June 18-22
FRA Administrator Molitoris will travel to Paris, France, to delivery a
keynote address to the European Transport Commissioner and 200 European
rail leaders on the occasion of the international Union of Railways 75th
anniversary.
June 19
NHTSA Deputy Administrator Recht will speak at the Annual Automotive
Litigation Conference in Arlington, VA.
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt will
testify before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on
Aviation.
June 20
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the Coast Guard Academy change of command.
FRA Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will meet with the Australian Minister of
Transport to discuss rail issues affecting the United States and Australia.
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will address the Mothers Against Drunk
Driving Board of Directors Meeting at the White House.
June 21
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt will
represent the Department at a pre-ministerial APEC Senior Officials
meeting in Victoria, Canada.
June 22-24
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will participate in the APEC meeting in
Victoria, British Columbia.
MARAD Administrator Herberger will participate in the APEC meeting in
Victoria, British Columbia.
June 23
Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy Kruesi will be the keynote
speaker at the 68th annual meeting of the Association for Transportation
Law, Logistics and Policy in Santa Fe.
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will deliver remarks at the American Gas
Associations monthly meeting in Washington, D.C.
June 24
FTA Administrator Linton will participate in a Welfare to Work Workshop in
Boston, MA.
FRA Administrator Molitoris and Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will attend
the full meeting of the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee in Baltimore,
MD.
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will be the keynote speaker at the Corporate
Occupant Protection Symposium co-sponsored by the Air Bag Safety Campaign,
National Safety Council, and the network of Employers for Traffic Safety
in Chicago, IL.
June 24-25
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the CINCs Conference at the Pentagon.
June 25
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt is
scheduled to testify before the House Transportation and Infrastructure
Subcommittee on Aviation.
OSDBU Director Hopewell will participate in the DOT/OSDBU Transportation
Marketplace Conference in Detroit, MI.
FHWA Executive Director Kane will attend the quarterly Central Artery
senior management meeting in Boston, MA.
June 25-26
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will visit Boeing in Seattle, WA.
June 26
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the retirement ceremony for Rear Admiral
Donnell in Yorktown, VA.
Governmental Affairs Assistant Secretary Palmer will attend the Grand
Opening Ribbon cutting at the Austin/Bergstrom International Airport in
Austin, TX.
FTA Administrator Linton will deliver the keynote address at the Project
Action Conference in Pittsburgh.
June 26-27
FRA Administrator Molitoris and Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will
participate in the FRA strategic planning retreat at Solomons Island, MD.
June 27
FTA Administrator Linton will speak at an Urban Impact, Inc. luncheon in
Birmingham, AL.
MARAD Administrator Herberger will speak at the Navy League National
Convention Awards Luncheon in Boston, MA.
June 27-28
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the change of command for the Commander,
First Coast Guard District, and the Navy League National Convention in
Boston, MA.
June 29-July 3
Inspector General Mead will make oversight visits to Seattle and San
Francisco Regional Offices. He will visit Boeing Corporation on July 1.
July 1
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend a meeting with the Webb Institute in NYC.
July 6-14
USCG Admiral Kramek will meet with Federal Border Service leaders in
Russia.
July 10
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will visit Piper Aircraft in Vero
Beach, FL.
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will address the National League of
Cities Board Meeting in Oklahoma City, OK.
July 11
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will discuss the Garrett A. Morgan
Technology and Transportation Futures Program with representatives of the
Oakland Port Authority in Oakland, CA.
July 12-19
USCG VADM Herr will attend meetings with the International Maritime
Organization in London.
July 15
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will deliver remarks at the American Gas
Associations Legal Forum in Napa, CA.
July 22
USCG Admiral Kramek will address the Master Pilot Information Exchange
Workshop in Crystal City.
July 23
USCG Admiral Kramek will speak at the National Naval Officers Association
meeting in Annapolis, MD.
July 24
USCG Admiral Kramek will address flag and general officers from all
services participating in the CAPSTONE program.
July 24-25
FRA Administrator Molitoris will travel to Oakland, CA, to participate in
Amtraks Board and Committee Meetings.
USCG Admiral Kramek will host the Senior Advisory Group/Quality Council
meeting with senior Coast Guard flag officers.
July 27
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will participate in San Francisco Giants
Traffic Safety Day, San Francisco, CA.
July 29
USCG Admiral Kramek will host the Congressional Coast Guard Birthday
Celebration at the Rayburn Building.
July 30-August 3
USCG Vice Admiral Herr will attend events at the annual Coast Guard
Festival in Grand Haven, MI.
August 3-6
BTS Director Lakshmanan will participate in the 67th Institute of
Transportation Engineers Annual Meeting in Boston, MA.
August 13
Admiral Kramek will attend The Interdiction Committee luncheon/meeting.
August 28
USCG Vice Admiral Herr will be the guest speaker at the Grand Military
Ball for the Chief Petty Officers Association National Convention in
Cleveland, OH.
Media Inquiries
NHTSA Administrator Martinez was a guest June 17 on NPRs Diane Rehm
listener call-in show. The topic was air bag safety.
CBS Evening News, weekend edition, June 20, will join NHTSA Administrator
Martinez for a visit to the Baltimore Trauma Center, where he will
describe injuries from automobile accidents. Air date not known.
Fortune Magazine, June 12, interviewed NHTSA Administrator Martinez for a
story on officials in government whose decisions affect business.
Publication date not known.
USA Today, June 13, requested interviews with FAA officials closely
involved with the TWA 800 investigation, for a piece focusing on the human
side of the investigation. Interviews will be arranged with the Director,
Office of Accident Investigation and the Associate Administrator, Office
of Civil Aviation Security. Publication expected in July, at anniversary
of crash.
USA Today, June 9, requested background information on the number of
female versus male air traffic controllers, now and in the past.
Publication expected this week.
The Washington Post, July 7, and The Journal of Commerce, July 17, will
interview Acting SLSDC Administrator Sanders about the St. Lawrence Seaway
Development Corporation becoming a performance-based organization.
Publication dates not known.
U.S. News and World Report is preparing a story on the impact of weather
on aviation and air traffic. Reporter will tour Dulles International
Airport June 19 for background information.
The Washington Post is preparing an article on the Maritime Security
Program, focusing on Senator Lotts support for the MSP and for the
maritime industry.
The New York Times plans to write a story on alleged predatory pricing in
the airline industry. The Times is preparing a short piece for the June
22 travel section on DOTs new consumer airfare report, which is not the
predatory pricing story.
Good Morning America: Consumer reporter Steve Filmer is asking about the
possibility of doing a segment on the final New Car Assessment Program
test results, probably later this month.
Newsweek: Reporters Andrea Weider and Julie Halpert asked for
information on teen drivers for a possible story on alcohol, speeding and
graduated licensing.
MSNBC interviewed Aida Berkovitz in the Region 9 office about a new
device known as Talking Signs, which assist the blind and the visually
impaired. San Francisco is the first city to use these devices at
intersection crosswalk locations. No word on the date of the broadcast or
if the Berkovitz interview will be included. (June 10)
The Bureau of National Affairs interviewed Jeff Lindley of the ITS office
about a provision in the NEXTEA proposal on communications spectrum for
dedicated short-range communications. A story ran the week of June 9.
West Publishing requested information on the Iroquois Pipeline Case.
States News Service requested a copy of OIGs recently issued Semiannual
Report to Congress.
FOIA REQUESTS
Safety issues, from January 1994 to the present, related to electronic
devices used by passengers while on-board commercial aircraft - American
Journal
Airworthiness directives on Lockheed 382 model aircraft -- Willamette
Week, Portland, OR
Enforcement Investigative Reports regarding Great Lakes Aviation, Ltd. -
Chicago Sun-Times
******
Point of Contact: For the weekend of June 21-22, Michael Huerta will be
the contact. He can be reached through the FAA Operations Center at (202)
267-3333.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Franklin F. Urteaga ( CN=Franklin F. Urteaga/OU=OSTP/O=EOP [ OSTP 1)
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 13:58:51.00
SUBJECT: Re: Remarks of Dr. Gibbons
TO: Jennifer.Antonielli Jennifer.Antonielli @ rspa.dot.gov [ UNKNOWN )
READ:UNKNOWN
CC: Susanne Bachtel ( CN=Susanne Bachtel/OU=OSTP/O=EOP @ EOP [ OSTP ])
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
I have forwarded your message to Susie Bachtel, Dr. Gibbons assistant, who
may be able to help in this regard.
Thx.
Franklin.
Jennifer.Antonielli @ rspa.dot.gov
06/18/97 12:24:03 PM
Record Type: Record
To: furteaga
cc:
Subject: Remarks of Dr. Gibbons
Would it be possible to get a copy of Dr. Gibbons's (latest) remarks from
the June 3rd White House briefing on NEXTEA and technology for public
release? Several folks who attended as well as some who did not attend
the briefing have asked for copies of the speeches. Please let me know
if this is a problem.
Many thanks,
Jennifer
Fax (202) 366-3671
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Cynthia Coogan ( CN=Cynthia Coogan/OU=DOT/O=GOV [ UNKNOWN ])
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 17:22:45.00
SUBJECT: White House Weekly Report for the Week of June 23, 1997
TO: Cabinet Affairs ( Cabinet Affairs [ UNKNOWN
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
MEMORANDUM FOR ERSKINE BOWLES, THE WHITE HOUSE
June 18, 1997
FROM:
Secretary Slater
SUBJECT:
DOT Weekly Report -- Week of June 23, 1997
The following is the Department of Transportation Weekly Report:
KEY DEPARTMENT NEWS
State Infrastructure Bank (SIB) Pilot Program: On June 19, Secretary
Slater announced that 29 additional states have been approved to establish
innovative state infrastructure banks (SIBs), bringing to 39 the total
number of states participating in the Departments SIB program. The
Department is announcing that $150 million is being allocated among the 39
states participating in the pilot program. Each state will receive a
minimum share of the $150 million, with the remainder divided according to
each states commitment to capitalize their SIB. The Administration has
increased investment in public use infrastructure from an average of $21.1
billion between 1990 and 1993, to an average of $25.5 billion between 1994
and 1997. Under the budget agreement recently reached between the
President and Congress, this investment will increase to an average of
$27.6 billion between 1998 and 2001.
Secretary Slater, Commandant Honor Alex Haley: On June 17, Secretary
Slater, Admiral Kramek, Mr George Haley, and actress Jasmine Guy
officiated at a ceremony in the DOT Plaza in recognition of the 20th
anniversary of the book ROOTS, and its author and former Coast Guardsman,
Alex Haley. Secretary Slater announced that the Coast Guard will name a
Coast Guard cutter after Alex Haley.
APEC Ministerial Meeting: On June 21-24, Secretary Slater will travel to
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, for the Asia-Pacific Economic Council
meeting. Secretary Slater has invited approximately 125 transportation
industry CEOs to join him as part of the U.S. delegation to the second
meeting of APEC Transportation Ministers. U.S. industry representatives
will be able to participate in a government-industry symposium to discuss
critical transportation issues with the Ministers and to determine future
opportunities for public-private cooperation in developing the region's
transportation system. A second industry forum will focus on
infrastructure development and overcoming barriers to growth in the
region.
Secretary signs Open-Skies with New Zealand: On June 18, Secretary
Slater
signed formally the United States-New Zealand
"Open-Skies" Aviation Agreement.
Transport Minister Jenny
Shipley signed on behalf of New Zealand.
Secretary to sign Open-Skies with Malaysia: On June 12, representatives
of the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and the Malaysian Ministry of
Transport initialed the text of an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement.
Secretary Slater will sign formally the agreement on behalf of the United
States on June 21 when he meets in San Francisco with his Malaysian
counterpart.
Secretary Travels to CA: On June 21, Secretary Slater will attend a
meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in San Francisco, CA. The
Secretary will also make a $30.9 million grant announcement for 36 trolley
buses and rehabilitation of a maintenance facility in San Francisco.
Mayor Brown will accept on behalf of the city.
Secretary to Attend Grant Agreement Signing: On June 20, Secretary Slater
will participate in a signing ceremony for a FFGA to extend the
Sacramento, CA light rail transit system 6.3 miles. This is one of the
six FFGAs which the Administration announced an intent to enter into in
March, 1996. He will also present a $7.9 million grant to begin land
acquisition and construction of the extension.
NSTC Transportation Research and Development Committee Meeting: On June
18, Deputy Secretary Downey chaired a NSTC Transportation Research and
Development Committee meeting. Participants reviewed the progress of NSTC
interagency teams in developing investment plans for the proposed
transportation partnership initiatives and research and education agenda.
Access Control Problems at Miami International Airport: FAA Security is
investigating apparent falsification of background/employment checks by
Million Air, a cargo carrier at Miami International Airport. The problems
were discovered by an INS sweep of Million Airs facility. It found a
number of employees who are illegal aliens but have been issued IDs
authorizing unescorted access to the airports secure areas.
Drugs Found on American Trans Air (AMTA): On June 10, a mechanic
performing routine maintenance on an AMTA aircraft at St. Louis found four
large suitcases containing 800 pounds of marijuana. The aircraft had
arrived on June 9 from Montego Bay. ACS Security is working with Customs
to determine where the bags were placed on the aircraft. Security
concerns center on security of the aircraft and access controls at St.
Louis, Montego Bay, and other airports at which the aircraft recently
operated.
CSX Accidents and Audit Review: On June 16, a team from FRA met with CSX
officials in Jacksonville, FL to discuss an action plan addressing the
safety concerns of FRA following the recent accidents in Cyprus, FL and
Scary, WV. FRA will audit CSXs efficiency tests and procedures, begin a
review of the CSX Dispatch Center in Jacksonville, FL and inspect rail
defect reports and track maintenance procedures.
Investigation into Vandalism of Pan American World Airways Aircraft at
Kennedy International Airport: On June 11, during a preflight maintenance
inspection at the TWA Terminal at JFK, several severed wires were found on
a Pan American World Airways Airbus 300. FAA and the FBI are
investigating. There has been considerable media reporting on the incident
U.S. Coast Guard and Haiti Seize Suspect Boat: On June 10, the Coast
Guard Cutter THETIS, with an embarked Haitian ship riders, encountered a
suspicious boat off Haiti. The boat headed to shore where 5 suspected
smugglers escaped. Although no contraband was found, the Haitian
government took possession of the boat. The Cutter THETIS was operating
in support of Operation FRONTIER ADVANCE, a joint United States-Haitian
counter narcotics operation centered around Haiti.
Update to Missing Coast Guard Helicopter in Humboldt Bay, CA: A massive
search covering 27,000 square miles (roughly equivalent to the State of
Maine) by 5 Coast Guard Cutters and 43 Coast Guard, Navy, and Air Force
search flights was suspended on June 12 after yielding only small pieces
of the helicopter. The 4 Coast Guard aircrew, LT Jeffrey Crane, LTJG
Charles Thigpen, AD3 Richard Hughes, and ASM3 James Caines are presumed
lost. Acting on a Coast Guard request, the Navy is deploying deep
submergence surveillance equipment to the crash area to assist in the
ongoing investigation. Admiral Kramek officiated at a formal memorial
ceremony at Coast Guard Air Station Humboldt Bay on June 16. A Coast
Guard C-130 flew members of the immediate family over the crash site for a
wreath-laying ceremony afterwards. Secretary Slater spoke with the
relatives of the missing Coast Guardsmen by phone.
Drilling Rig Explosion: On June 16, 30 miles NW of Morgan City, LA, an
uninspected drilling rig experienced a natural gas explosion and fire.
Two persons are reported dead, two remain missing, and 18 were evacuated.
Damage to the rig is estimated to be at $10-12 million. No waterways have
been reported closed. The Coast Guard is on scene and assisting the
Federal On Scene Coordinator. The operator, Denby Management, Inc., has
hired well control and spill response companies to extinguish the fire and
reduce pollution.
Tanker Runs Aground in Texas, Refloated Safely: On June 15, the U.S.
Tanker DENEB ran aground outside the Sabine, TX channel. It was loaded
with 521, 110 barrels of crude oil. Tugs were able to safely refloat the
tanker on June 16. The Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Port Arthur
monitored the situation. An underwater hull survey is now being conducted
on the tanker.
TWA 800 Search Leader Commander Retires: Rear Admiral John Linnon,
Commander, First Coast Guard District (New York, New England) and
commander of all Coast Guard search operations for TWA Flight 800 will
retire after nearly 40 years of Coast Guard service in a formal ceremony
in Boston, MA on June 28.
FAA Opens Door for More Controllers in New York, New Jersey: On June 11,
in a report to Congress, the FAA announced that the three major New York
area air traffic control towers will meet or exceed authorized staffing
levels by the end of fiscal year 1997. By the end of fiscal year 1998,
the larger facilities, the New York air route traffic control center and
New York terminal radar approach control, will also have achieved their
hiring goals.
Aviation - Brunei: In April, the United States and Brunei initialed the
text of an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement. It is anticipated that the
agreement will be signed on June 20 at the State Department.
Aviation - Barbados: Aviation negotiations with Barbados will be held in
Washington on June 19-20 to discuss the desire of Barbados for new route
and code-sharing authority. The U.S. will seek an "Open-Skies" agreement.
Aviation - Egypt: Negotiations with Egypt are scheduled for the week of
June 23 in Washington. Egypt requested the talks to discuss the expansion
of civil aviation services between the United States and Egypt.
Aviation - France: The French have agreed to resume aviation negotiations
in Paris on July 9-11 looking toward a liberal aviation agreement. While
the U.S. is seeking an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement phased in over a
3-year period, the French have proposed a 9-year phase culminating in a
liberal arrangement for U.S.-France services only.
Fly Quiet in Chicago: On June 17, FAA Great Lakes Regional Administrator
Cecelia L. Hunziker joined the Chicago Department of Aviation for a press
conference to announce a joint effort on noise control. This represents a
partnership with OHare and Midway noise compatibility commissions,
airlines, City of Chicago, other local communities surrounding OHare and
the FAA. Efforts include soundproofing homes and schools surrounding
OHare and Midway Airports.
NHTSA Pursues Automated Collection Notification(ACN) System: The NTSB, at
their Board Meeting on June 10, talked about a black box for automobiles.
As part of NHTSAs overall plan to improve highway safety and to
facilitate the development and implementation of Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS), NHTSA is conducting an Operational Field
Test of an ACN System (black box). This operational test commenced in
October 1995 with the signing of a cooperative agreement between the
Calspan Corporation and NHTSA. Between October, 1995 and June, 1997 the
ACN system was designed and fabricated. From July to November, the
systems will be installed in 1,000 volunteers vehicles. The start of data
collection will coincide with the installation of the system and will
continue for approximately 1 year. At the conclusion of data collection a
final report, addressing the system performance in detail, will be issued.
Pennsylvania Avenue: On June 2, the Department of Treasury publicly
released the Environmental Assessment on the Implementation of White House
Security Review Vehicular Traffic Restriction Recommendations for the
Pennsylvania Avenue. On June 16 and 18, the chief of staff and FHWA
officials attended a White House meeting to discuss potential remedial
traffic measures.
NTSB Finding in Amtrak Silver Spring Accident: On June 17, the NTSB
issued the probable cause for the 1996 Amtrak/MARC accident that resulted
in the deaths of 12 people at Silver Spring, MD. The NTSB cited the
engineer, train crew, FRA, FTA, CSX Railroad and MARC as contributing to
the cause of the accident. Specifically, the NTSB was critical of the FRA
and FTA for failing to conduct a comprehensive human factors analysis
before allowing the signal on the CSX line to be removed. The NTSB issued
13 recommendations to FRA, 3 to the FTA and I to the Department.
Piper PA-32 Landing Gear Collapse at National Airport: On June 16, a
Piper PA-32 experienced the collapse of its left main landing gear after
landing on Runway 15 at Washington National Airport. The airplane came to
rest at the intersection of Runways 15 and 18, closing the airport for
about one hour causing six aircraft to be delayed a maximum of 31
minutes. Prior to landing, the pilot reported landing gear problems and
performed a fly-by. The tower controllers reported that the gear appeared
to be extended. The three occupants were uninjured, but the aircraft
sustained minor damage to the bottom of the left wing. An FAA inspector
participated in the NTSBs on-scene investigation. The NTSB is continuing
its investigation into the cause of the gear failure.
General Electric Engines Airworthiness Directive: On June 17, FAA issued a
final rule airworthiness directive requiring replacement of existing fan
guards with new, improved fan containment guards to be accomplished within
two years on 200 aircraft which have General Electric CF700 series turbo
fan engines. This is the result of an accident in Paris wherein
uncontained fan blades separated from the engine during an overspeed,
resulting in engine failure and a subsequent crash.
Submission of Aviation Accident Plans: After substantial compliance
efforts by the Department and NTSB, all operating air carriers have now
filed aviation accident plans as required under the Family Assistance
Act. No new air carrier or air carrier whose authority has been suspended
will be allowed to operate without first filing the required plan.
NTSB/TWA 800 Update: FAA and NTSB staff met on June 18 to discuss the
status of FAA action on the NTSB recommendations, the data supporting
those recommendations, and what other activities the FAA has accomplished
since the recommendations were issued. FAA has placed a notice in the
Federal Register asking for public comment on the NTSB recommendations by
August 1. FAA is completing a formal report that summarizes our
assessment of a possible TWA 800 accident scenario that may lead to an FAA
airworthiness directive to inspect B-747 airplane wires in the inboard
wing tanks. That report is due to be transmitted to NTSB by the end of
June. FAA is working with Boeing to conduct detailed inspections of ten
B-747 aircraft that have recently been taken out of service to assess the
condition of the center fuel tank components. FAA is also publicly
supporting Boeing's program to work with the airlines to inspect older
B-747 aircraft to evaluate the condition of the wiring and other fuel tank
components. FAA is also encouraging international aviation authorities to
ask their airlines to support this action.
Acquisition Management System Report: On June 18, FAA issued a report on
its internal review of our one-year old acquisition management system for
acquiring goods and services. The review shows that the new system is
saving time and money for both the agency and the companies that bid for i
ts contracts, cutting the time to award contracts greater than $100,000 by
more than a third. Based on interviews with industry executives, the
reforms have saved industry an estimated 30-40 percent over previous bid
and proposal costs. The report also outlines several areas where the FAA
could improve our system. This internal evaluation complements a
congressionally-mandated independent review of the FAA's acquisition
system, which will be done by Booz-Allen & Hamilton, Inc., and should be
completed this fall.
NTSB Hearing: On June 17, NTSB met to review the Delta MD-88 accident in
which the aircraft struck approach lights and a runway support pier while
landing at LaGuardia Airport in NY. The Board will issue a probable cause
and recommendations.
Great Lakes Airlines Update: After voluntarily suspending service to 80
cities on May 16, at the request of the FAA, the carrier has now been
permitted to resume service to 19 cities. Thirteen of their 58 aircraft
have been returned to service.
Maritime Security Program - Lykes Transfer of Contracts/Foreign Interest:
MARAD is continuing its review of Lykes latest submissions in its
application for MARAD approval of a reorganization in bankruptcy and a
proposed asset sale and vessel charter to a subsidiary of Canadian Pacific
Ltd. Final determination in this matter is expected by the end of June.
Japan/China Maritime Talks: Talks will be held with Japan beginning June
23, and with China beginning June 25. Japan has not made progress in
resolving U.S. carrier doing business problems in Japanese ports as
anticipated under a recent Memorandum of Consultations (MOC). With China,
a negotiated solution was reached a year ago that would allow U.S.
carriers to engage in freight forwarding. The Chinese have created a new
roadblock to prevent that solution from taking effect. The Department
hopes to make progress in eliminating these problems.
$1.2 for Lansing Intermodal Transit Center: On June 13, Secretary Slater
announced the award of $1.2 million in FTA funds for the Capital Area
Transportation Authority for the construction of the intermodal Ground
Transportation Center in downtown Lansing.
FTA Grants Awarded: On June 16, FTA awarded $10.8 million to the Maryland
Mass Transit Administration for articulated buses for Baltimore, MD, and
replacement buses for Montgomery County, MD. Also on June 16, FTA awarded
$1.1 to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the expansion of a
park-n-ride facility. On June 13, FTA awarded $14.8 to the City of
Richmond, VA for the rehabilitation of a downtown multimodal
transportation center.
Federal Harbor Maintenance Tax Found Unconstitutional: On June 3, the
United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed an earlier
decision of the United States Court of International Trade, that had held
that the federal ad valorem Harbor Maintenance Tax imposed on cargo moving
through U.S. ports is unconstitutional under the Export Clause of the
Constitution insofar as it is levied on export cargo. In addition to
providing the sole source for all federally-funded harbor maintenance and
dredging projects, the Harbor Maintenance Tax also provides virtually all
of the funding for the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation.
Since the Federal Circuit's decision involves only the collection of fees
on export shipments, it does not at this juncture end the Harbor
Maintenance Tax in its entirety. The Commercial Litigation section of the
Justice Department intends to ask the Solicitor General's Office to seek
certiorari review of the decision before the Supreme Court. The Office of
General Counsel is working on a letter to the Justice Department
supporting Supreme Court review.
Revision of Gate Requirements for High-Lift Device Controls: On June 9, a
NPRM to amend Part 25 of the Federal Aviation Regulations to revise the
requirements concerning gated positions on the control used by the pilot
to select the position of an airplanes high-lift devices was published in
the Federal Register. The proposed amendment would update the current
standards to take into account the multiple configurations of the
high-lift devices provided on current airplanes to perform landings and
go-around maneuvers. The proposed amendment would also harmonize these
standards with those being proposed for the European Joint Aviation
Requirements. The comment period will close September 8.
Emergency Relief for South Dakota, Ohio: On June 16, Secretary Slater
announced an award of $14.2 million in FHWA emergency relief funds to
continue repairs on federal-aid roads and bridges in South Dakota damaged
during spring flooding. In addition, to help Ohio in its flood-recovery
efforts, Secretary Slater announced that the state would receive $18.9
million in FHWA emergency relief funds to repair damage from storms and
flooding in February and March.
Emergency Relief Funds - Idaho: Bingham and Jefferson counties in
eastern Idaho declared a state of emergency on June 11 under the Governors
May 18 statewide Emergency Proclamation because of flooding of the Snake
River. The Idaho Transportation Department is taking measures in the Bla
ckfoot area to keep the Snake River from flooding I-15. The situation may
get worse because many of the reservoirs are at capacity. The only road
closure is on Route 33 in the Driggs area.
Emergency Relief - Federal Lands: The Western Federal Lands Highway
Division (WFLHD) reports the rapid melting of above average snowpack in
northern parts of Washington and Idaho and in western Montana is causing
severe flood damage. The Colville Indian Reservation recently suffered up
to $2 million in road and bridge damage. Eight National Forests in
Hidaho and Montana have road and bridge damage estimated at $4 million.
The Bureau of Land Management in Idaho is also reporting damage.
WORK ON PRESIDENTIAL POLICY PRIORITIES
WELFARE TO WORK
Transportation Workshops: On June 24, the FTA and HHS in Boston, MA will
convene a meeting of stakeholders involved in planning and providing
transportation services for welfare recipients. These regional
"welfare-to-work" meetings will bring together state and local human
services officials to examine the issue of transportation in implementing
the states' welfare reform implementation plans throughout the nation.
SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT
Mid-America Regulatory Commissioners Discuss Pipeline Safety: RSPA is
participating on a panel, Safety and Environmental Concerns in Natural
Gas Expansion, at the Mid-America Regulatory Commissioners Conference
Business Program in Des Moines, IA on June 16-17. Other participants at
the conference include Vice President Al Gore and FCC Chairman Reed
Hundt. The Mid-America Conference provides senior policy makers with an
opportunity to exchange views on a host of regulatory issues.
NOTABLE CONGRESSIONAL ACTIVITY
Press Conference: On June 12, Congressman Wolf held a press conference on
management of the FAA. He expressed serious concern about what he called
a lack of leadership at the FAA, deliberately misleading Congress on the
Potomac project, air traffic staffing issues, lack of Doppler weather
radars and wasting taxpayer dollars.
Congestion Mitigation Air Quality: On June 18, the House Commerce
Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing on the Congestion
Mitigation Air Quality program. Kevin Heanue, Director of the Office of
Environment and Planning, Federal Highway Administration, will testify on
behalf of the Department, along with a representative from the EPA.
U.S. Japan Bilateral Negotiations: On June 19, the Senate Commerce,
Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation will hold a hearing on
U.S.-Japan bilateral negotiations. Assistant Secretary for International
Affairs Charlie Hunnicutt will testify.
Garvey Nomination: On June 26, the Senate Commerce, Science and
Transportation Committee will hold a hearing on the nomination of Jane
Garvey to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
Air Traffic Control Technology: On June 24, the House Science
Subcommittee on Technology will hold a hearing on air traffic control
technology. A witness from the FAA will testify.
Market-Based Solutions to Air Service Problems for Medium-Sized Communities
: On June 25, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on
Aviation will hold a hearing on market-based solutions to air service
problems for medium-sized communities. The Department will testify.
National Airways System Modernization: On July 7, the Senate Commerce,
Science and Transportation Committee will hold a hearing on national
airway system modernization.
Budget Reconciliation: On June 11, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee approved, by voice vote, a $736 million
reconciliation plan, which provides the transportation component of the
additional revenues necessary to implement the budget resolution. Of the
$736 million, $500 million is derived from the sale of Governors Island,
$196 million from an extension of the vessel tonnage fee on vessels
visiting U.S. ports and $50 million from the sale of air rights over Union
Station.
On June 17, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee will
mark up its budget reconciliation plan.
ISTEA Developments: House and Senate staff continue to meet to discuss
ISTEA reauthorization legislation. However, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee and the Senate Environment and Public Works
Committee do not appear ready to introduce committee bills any time soon.
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Shuster has stated
that he is still reviewing options following the recent budget vote.
Environment and Public Works Committee Members remain divided over their
support for STEP 21, ISTEA Works or STARS 2000 legislation.
Full Funding Grant Agreements: Five Republican Members of the Senate
Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation have written to the
Secretary requesting that the Department refrain from executing any new
Full Funding Grant Agreements prior to the reauthorization of ISTEA. The 5
Members were Senators Domenici, Bond, Bennett, Gorton and Faircloth.
Secretary's Schedule
June 20-21
Secretary Slater will attend a meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in
San Francisco, CA.
June 21-24
Secretary Slater travels to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, for the
Asia-Pacific Economic Council meeting.
The Deputy Secretary
June 23
The Deputy Secretary will participate in the Intelligent Transportation
Society of
NYS's Annual Conference in Cooperstown, NY.
June 25
The Deputy Secretary will deliver remarks at the St. Louis Regional
Commerce & Growth Association's Annual Leadership Conference in
Washington, DC.
July 23-25
The Deputy Secretary will participate in AMTRAK meetings in Los Angeles,
CA.
August 5
The Deputy Secretary will participate in the Institute of Transportation
Engineers' Annual Meeting in Boston, MA.
August 7
The Deputy Secretary will attend the joint ITS America/National Automated
Highway Systems Consortium (NAHSC) "Technical Feasibility Demonstration"
in San Diego, CA.
August 11-12
The Deputy Secretary will attend the ITS America Board Meetings in San
Diego, CA.
Modal Administrators/Assistant Secretaries
June 18-22
FRA Administrator Molitoris will travel to Paris, France, to delivery a
keynote address to the European Transport Commissioner and 200 European
rail leaders on the occasion of the international Union of Railways 75th
anniversary.
June 19
NHTSA Deputy Administrator Recht will speak at the Annual Automotive
Litigation Conference in Arlington, VA.
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt will
testify before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on
Aviation.
June 20
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the Coast Guard Academy change of command.
FRA Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will meet with the Australian Minister of
Transport to discuss rail issues affecting the United States and Australia.
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will address the Mothers Against Drunk
Driving Board of Directors Meeting at the White House.
June 21
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt will
represent the Department at a pre-ministerial APEC Senior Officials
meeting in Victoria, Canada.
June 22-24
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will participate in the APEC meeting in
Victoria, British Columbia.
MARAD Administrator Herberger will participate in the APEC meeting in
Victoria, British Columbia.
June 23
Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy Kruesi will be the keynote
speaker at the 68th annual meeting of the Association for Transportation
Law, Logistics and Policy in Santa Fe.
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will deliver remarks at the American Gas
Associations monthly meeting in Washington, D.C.
June 24
FTA Administrator Linton will participate in a Welfare to Work Workshop in
Boston, MA.
FRA Administrator Molitoris and Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will attend
the full meeting of the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee in Baltimore,
MD.
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will be the keynote speaker at the Corporate
Occupant Protection Symposium co-sponsored by the Air Bag Safety Campaign,
National Safety Council, and the network of Employers for Traffic Safety
in Chicago, IL.
June 24-25
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the CINCs Conference at the Pentagon.
June 25
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt is
scheduled to testify before the House Transportation and Infrastructure
Subcommittee on Aviation.
OSDBU Director Hopewell will participate in the DOT/OSDBU Transportation
Marketplace Conference in Detroit, MI.
FHWA Executive Director Kane will attend the quarterly Central Artery
senior management meeting in Boston, MA.
June 25-26
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will visit Boeing in Seattle, WA.
June 26
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the retirement ceremony for Rear Admiral
Donnell in Yorktown, VA.
Governmental Affairs Assistant Secretary Palmer will attend the Grand
Opening Ribbon cutting at the Austin/Bergstrom International Airport in
Austin, TX.
FTA Administrator Linton will deliver the keynote address at the Project
Action Conference in Pittsburgh.
June 26-27
FRA Administrator Molitoris and Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will
participate in the FRA strategic planning retreat at Solomons Island, MD.
June 27
FTA Administrator Linton will speak at an Urban Impact, Inc. luncheon in
Birmingham, AL.
MARAD Administrator Herberger will speak at the Navy League National
Convention Awards Luncheon in Boston, MA.
June 27-28
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the change of command for the Commander,
First Coast Guard District, and the Navy League National Convention in
Boston, MA.
June 29-July 3
Inspector General Mead will make oversight visits to Seattle and San
Francisco Regional Offices. He will visit Boeing Corporation on July 1.
July 1
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend a meeting with the Webb Institute in NYC.
July 6-14
USCG Admiral Kramek will meet with Federal Border Service leaders in
Russia.
July 10
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will visit Piper Aircraft in Vero
Beach, FL.
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will address the National League of
Cities Board Meeting in Oklahoma City, OK.
July 11
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will discuss the Garrett A. Morgan
Technology and Transportation Futures Program with representatives of the
Oakland Port Authority in Oakland, CA.
July 12-19
USCG VADM Herr will attend meetings with the International Maritime
Organization in London.
July 15
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will deliver remarks at the American Gas
Associations Legal Forum in Napa, CA.
July 22
USCG Admiral Kramek will address the Master Pilot Information Exchange
Workshop in Crystal City.
July 23
USCG Admiral Kramek will speak at the National Naval Officers Association
meeting in Annapolis, MD.
July 24
USCG Admiral Kramek will address flag and general officers from all
services participating in the CAPSTONE program.
July 24-25
FRA Administrator Molitoris will travel to Oakland, CA, to participate in
Amtraks Board and Committee Meetings.
USCG Admiral Kramek will host the Senior Advisory Group/Quality Council
meeting with senior Coast Guard flag officers.
July 27
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will participate in San Francisco Giants
Traffic Safety Day, San Francisco, CA.
July 29
USCG Admiral Kramek will host the Congressional Coast Guard Birthday
Celebration at the Rayburn Building.
July 30-August 3
USCG Vice Admiral Herr will attend events at the annual Coast Guard
Festival in Grand Haven, MI.
August 3-6
BTS Director Lakshmanan will participate in the 67th Institute of
Transportation Engineers Annual Meeting in Boston, MA.
August 13
Admiral Kramek will attend The Interdiction Committee luncheon/meeting.
August 28
USCG Vice Admiral Herr will be the guest speaker at the Grand Military
Ball for the Chief Petty Officers Association National Convention in
Cleveland, OH.
Media Inquiries
NHTSA Administrator Martinez was a guest June 17 on NPRs Diane Rehm
listener call-in show. The topic was air bag safety.
CBS Evening News, weekend edition, June 20, will join NHTSA Administrator
Martinez for a visit to the Baltimore Trauma Center, where he will
describe injuries from automobile accidents. Air date not known.
Fortune Magazine, June 12, interviewed NHTSA Administrator Martinez for a
story on officials in government whose decisions affect business.
Publication date not known.
USA Today, June 13, requested interviews with FAA officials closely
involved with the TWA 800 investigation, for a piece focusing on the human
side of the investigation. Interviews will be arranged with the Director,
Office of Accident Investigation and the Associate Administrator, Office
of Civil Aviation Security. Publication expected in July, at anniversary
of crash.
USA Today, June 9, requested background information on the number of
female versus male air traffic controllers, now and in the past.
Publication expected this week.
The Washington Post, July 7, and The Journal of Commerce, July 17, will
interview Acting SLSDC Administrator Sanders about the St. Lawrence Seaway
Development Corporation becoming a performance-based organization.
Publication dates not known.
U.S. News and World Report is preparing a story on the impact of weather
on aviation and air traffic. Reporter will tour Dulles International
Airport June 19 for background information.
The Washington Post is preparing an article on the Maritime Security
Program, focusing on Senator Lotts support for the MSP and for the
maritime industry.
The New York Times plans to write a story on alleged predatory pricing in
the airline industry. The Times is preparing a short piece for the June
22 travel section on DOTs new consumer airfare report, which is not the
predatory pricing story.
Good Morning America: Consumer reporter Steve Filmer is asking about the
possibility of doing a segment on the final New Car Assessment Program
test results, probably later this month.
Newsweek: Reporters Andrea Weider and Julie Halpert asked for
information on teen drivers for a possible story on alcohol, speeding and
graduated licensing.
MSNBC interviewed Aida Berkovitz in the Region 9 office about a new
device known as Talking Signs, which assist the blind and the visually
impaired. San Francisco is the first city to use these devices at
intersection crosswalk locations. No word on the date of the broadcast or
if the Berkovitz interview will be included. (June 10)
The Bureau of National Affairs interviewed Jeff Lindley of the ITS office
about a provision in the NEXTEA proposal on communications spectrum for
dedicated short-range communications. A story ran the week of June 9.
West Publishing requested information on the Iroquois Pipeline Case.
States News Service requested a copy of OIGs recently issued Semiannual
Report to Congress.
FOIA REQUESTS
Safety issues, from January 1994 to the present, related to electronic
devices used by passengers while on-board commercial aircraft -- American
Journal
Airworthiness directives on Lockheed 382 model aircraft - Willamette
Week, Portland, OR
Enforcement Investigative Reports regarding Great Lakes Aviation, Ltd.
Chicago Sun-Times
******
Point of Contact: For the weekend of June 21-22, Michael Huerta will be
the contact. He can be reached through the FAA Operations Center at (202)
267-3333.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: [email protected] ( [email protected] [ UNKNOWN ])
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 12:27:21.00
SUBJECT: Remarks of Dr. Gibbons
TO: Franklin F. Urteaga ( CN=Franklin F. Urteaga/OU=OSTP/O=EOP [ OSTP ])
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
Would it be possible to get a copy of Dr. Gibbons's (latest) remarks from
the June 3rd White House briefing on NEXTEA and technology for public
release? Several folks who attended as well as some who did not attend
the briefing have asked for copies of the speeches. Please let me know
if this is a problem.
Many thanks,
Jennifer
Fax (202) 366-3671
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Steven W. Adamske ( CN=Steven W. Adamske/O=OVP [ UNKNOWN ])
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997. 22:52:51.00
SUBJECT: Explanations for tomorrow's schedule
TO: Wendy C. New ( (CN=Wendy C. New/O=OVP @ OVP [ UNKNOWN ])
READ:UNKNOWN
TO: Paul J. Cusack (CN=Paul J. Cusack/O=OVP @ OVP [ UNKNOWN ])
READ:UNKNOWN
TO: Heather M. Marabeti ( CN=Heather M. Marabeti/O=OVP @ OVP [ UNKNOWN D
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
As you can see, there are basically three message events tomorrow. The
NEXTEA/State infrastructure event was originally scheduled for the 12,
then the 19th. We pulled out of nextea in place of immigration event;
however, this caused more controversy than expected, so we scheduled a
drop by. Ron really wanted the TV ratings event to happen Thursday.
Katie pulled the time set aside for the environmental briefing.
DT was going to schedule the Roosevelt room, however, he did'nt get anyone
tonight. He'll try first thing and let us know. Also, we'll bring you
the VPs briefing for the Fazio/Defense Bill meeting. It wasn't done for
the book.
Good luck.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Lawrence J. Haas ( CN=Lawrence J. Haas/O=OVP [ UNKNOWN ])
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 19:48:00.00
SUBJECT: nextea from dot
TO: Toby Donenfeld ( CN=Toby Donenfeld/O=OVP @ OVP [ UNKNOWN ])
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
Forwarded by Lawrence J. Haas/OVP on 06/18/97 08:07
PM
Dan Pink
06/18/97 07:21:46 PM
Record Type: Record
To: Lawrence J. Haas/OVP
cc:
Subject: nextea from dot
ATTACHMENT 1
ATT CREATION TIME/DATE: 0 00:00:00.00
TEXT:
Unable to convert ARMS_EXT:[ATTACH.D54]MAIL455127868.1161 to ASCII,
The following is a HEX DUMP:
END ATTACHMENT 1
Talking Points from the Department of Transportation
for
Vice President Albert Gore, Jr.
NEXTEA EVENT
June 19, 1997
Today, I am pleased to announce that we are awarding $150
million to help 38 states finance the roads and highways that
are America's backbone. The funds will support state
infrastructure banks -- a innovative financing mechanism for
attracting new investment to America's infrastructure.
Secretary Slater will unveil the states in a moment. And
most of them are going about this on their own, building their
own banks. But a few states are teaming up. For instance,
Arkansas and Tennessee have joined forces. I won't
speculate on the significance of that.
Today's $150 million is seed money. Over the proposed life
of NEXTEA, we plan to provide $900 million -- $150 million a
year, for the next six years. But this is only the beginning.
Each state can add more funds to these infrastructure banks
-- as much as 10 percent of its regular highway grant money.
1
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The states will use the seed money to encourage city
governments, metropolitan planning organizations, and the
private sector -- groups rarely in the business of financing
transportation projects -- also to invest.
This $900 million investment will leverage some $4.5 billion,
which would support more than 150,000 jobs.
This is a new approach to building America's infrastructure.
In 1994, President Clinton issued an Executive Order that
asked all the agencies in the cabinet to find better ways to
invest in our infrastructure. Reinvent how it's done. Be
more flexible. Throw out the old rules.
The Department of Transportation came up with an
innovative financing program -- State Infrastructure Banks.
These new entities support projects that have access to
revenue but need flexible financial assistance to clear
hurdles that would otherwise prevent or delay their
implementation.
2
[Automated Records Management System Hex-Dump Conversation]
And today innovative financing has become routine
financing. For example, in Dallas, a turnpike that had been
on the drawing boards since Lyndon Johnson was President
is now underway. Why? Because we allowed Texas to be
creative in how it financed transportation projects.
The state infrastructure banks carry this innovative way to
finance projects to the next level.
Secretary Slater will announce the states and explain how
the banks will work -- and the types of loans they will make.
Mr. Secretary
(Secretary Slater speaks)
3
[Automated Records Management System Hex-Dump Conversation]
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: [email protected] ( [email protected] [ UNKNOWN]
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 15:44:28.00
SUBJECT: June 18, 1997 ASME International Capitol Update
TO: [email protected] ( [email protected] [ UNKNOWN D
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
Dear Action Network Team member:
ASME International Capitol Update
Updated: June 18, 1997
In this Update:
1. Florida legislature passes privatization bill for Professional
Engineers Licensing Board.
2. House Ways and Means Committee markup of budget deal includes key
tax provisions.
3. Electricity industry deregulation lobbying reaches feverish pitch on
Capitol Hill.
4. House and Senate pursue different paths on ISTEA reauthorization.
5. GAO says Nuclear Regulatory Commission needs to do more to ensure
nuclear plants are run safely.
*****
FLORIDA LEGISLATURE PASSES PRIVATIZATION BILL FOR
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS LICENSING BOARD
Tallahassee, Florida---On June 14, Florida House Bill 433, seeking to
privatize the administrative processes of the Professional Engineers
Licensing Board, became law. Under the new law, a corporation will be
set up with a Board of Directors who will be appointed by the Board of
Professional Engineers. The mission of the Board will be to oversee the
administrative operations associated with the licensing of professional
engineers in the state. ASME issued a position of support for HB 433 to
Florida legislators and will work closely with the Florida Engineering
Society and the Board of Professional Engineers to implement the new
measure. If you would like additional information on this issue, please
contact Katie Henderson in the ASME Washington Center at (202) 785-
3756, [email protected]. Full-text of ASME's position statement is
also available on the web at http://www.asme.org/gric/ps97.html
HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE MARKUP OF BUDGET
DEAL INCLUDES KEY TAX PROVISIONS
The House Ways and Means Committee markup (the process by which the
committee offers, debates, and votes on amendments to the measure) of the
House deficit reduction budget deal includes a number of key tax
provisions and incentives. As reported by the committee on June 13th, the
markup includes "Educational Expense Provisions" that would extend the
expiring IRC Section 127 income tax exclusion for employer-provided
educational assistance for undergraduates. "Retirement Savings
Incentives" would create new American Dream Savings Accounts to which
all individuals could make non-deductible contributions in amounts up to
$2,000 annually. The "Research Tax Credit" would extend the expiring
IRC Section 41 research tax credit. Finally, the "Safe Harbor for
Independent Contractors" would provide a statutory safe harbor for
differentiating between employees and independent contractors for federal
tax purposes.
ELECTRICITY INDUSTRY DEREGULATION LOBBYING REACHES
FEVERISH PITCH ON CAPITOL HILL
Despite waning prospects for legislative action by Congress this year,
big- budgeted and sophisticated lobbying over the issue of electricity
deregulation continues on Capitol Hill. Interests on both sides of
efforts to deregulate the $208 billion a year industry are spending
millions of dollars on political contributions and high-powered lobbyists
to try to lay the political groundwork for a bill that might pass next
year, or even in the next Congress. On one side are the investor-owned
utilities that would like to kill any initiatives to federally mandate
retail competition in the electricity market. They have the most to lose
if their monopoly is broken. On the other side are advocates for federal
deregulation that include publicly owned utilities and consumer groups.
They argue that federal deregulation will bring better choices and prices
to consumers. While federal action seems unlikely in the short-term,
numerous states are moving forward with their own deregulation
initiatives, and the nation's power companies have engaged in a flurry of
mergers to position themselves for the possibility of retail electric
power competition nationwide.
HOUSE AND SENATE PURSUE DIFFERENT PATHS ON ISTEA
REAUTHORIZATION
The House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over the federal
highway program are pursuing different paths over the pending rewrite of
the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA). With only
four months remaining before ISTEA expires, the Senate side is continuing
to advocate a multi-year ISTEA bill while the House side is considering
only a one-year extension of the federal highway and transit programs.
Both committees' strategies are in reaction to recent votes on the FY 1998
budget resolution, where proposals to allow increased spending on ISTEA
programs were defeated in both chambers. With both panels considering
very different approaches to the ISTEA rewrite, it appears less likely
that the programs will be reauthorized by the Sept. 30 deadline. If that
deadline is missed, the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit
Administration will not be able to issue FY 1998 funds to the states.
GAO SAYS NRC NEEDS TO DO MORE TO ENSURE NUCLEAR
PLANTS ARE RUN SAFELY
The General Accounting Office (GAO) issued a report on June 17th citing
the need for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to do a better job
of ensuring that the 110 nuclear power plants in the U.S. are run safely.
Senators Joseph Biden (D-DE) and Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) released the
report during a press conference on Capitol Hill yesterday. "The GAO
report we are releasing today confirms what many of us have long believed
- the NRC is not doing its job," Biden said. The report concluded that
for some plants, the NRC has not taken aggressive enforcement action to
force licensees to fix long-standing safety problems on a timely bases;
the extensive time allowed to fix these problems allows nuclear plants to
continue to operate while the problems grow worse; and the commission
was slow in placing plants on its "Watch List," which is used to trigger
more extensive regulatory oversight. For more information on the report,
"Nuclear Regulation: Preventing Problem Plants Requires More Effective
NRC Action (RCED-95-144)" visit the GAO's web site at
http://www.gao.gov/new.items/newtitle.htm
*****
Prepared by Ross Dunbar
ASME Government Relations
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 906
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 785-3756
e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]
World Wide Web: http://www.asme.org
*****
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Cynthia Coogan ( CN=Cynthia Coogan/OU=DOT/O=GOV [ UNKNOWN
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 17:22:50.00
SUBJECT: White House Weekly Report for the Week of June 23, 1997
TO: Cabinet Affairs ( Cabinet Affairs [ UNKNOWN
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
MEMORANDUM FOR ERSKINE BOWLES, THE WHITE HOUSE
June 18, 1997
FROM:
Secretary Slater
SUBJECT:
DOT Weekly Report -- Week of June 23, 1997
The following is the Department of Transportation Weekly Report:
KEY DEPARTMENT NEWS
State Infrastructure Bank (SIB) Pilot Program: On June 19, Secretary
Slater announced that 29 additional states have been approved to establish
innovative state infrastructure banks (SIBs), bringing to 39 the total
number of states participating in the Departments SIB program. The
Department is announcing that $150 million is being allocated among the 39
states participating in the pilot program. Each state will receive a
minimum share of the $150 million, with the remainder divided according to
each states commitment to capitalize their SIB. The Administration has
increased investment in public use infrastructure from an average of $21.1
billion between 1990 and 1993, to an average of $25.5 billion between 1994
and 1997. Under the budget agreement recently reached between the
President and Congress, this investment will increase to an average of
$27.6 billion between 1998 and 2001.
Secretary Slater, Commandant Honor Alex Haley: On June 17, Secretary
Slater, Admiral Kramek, Mr George Haley, and actress Jasmine Guy
officiated at a ceremony in the DOT Plaza in recognition of the 20th
anniversary of the book ROOTS, and its author and former Coast Guardsman,
Alex Haley. Secretary Slater announced that the Coast Guard will name a
Coast Guard cutter after Alex Haley.
APEC Ministerial Meeting: On June 21-24, Secretary Slater will travel to
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, for the Asia-Pacific Economic Council
meeting. Secretary Slater has invited approximately 125 transportation
industry CEOs to join him as part of the U.S. delegation to the second
meeting of APEC Transportation Ministers. U.S. industry representatives
will be able to participate in a government-industry symposium to discuss
critical transportation issues with the Ministers and to determine future
opportunities for public-private cooperation in developing the region's
transportation system. A second industry forum will focus on
infrastructure development and overcoming barriers to growth in the
region.
Secretary signs Open-Skies with New Zealand: On June 18, Secretary
Slater
signed formally the United States-New Zealand
"Open-Skies" Aviation Agreement.
Transport Minister Jenny
Shipley signed on behalf of New Zealand.
Secretary to sign Open-Skies with Malaysia: On June 12, representatives
of the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and the Malaysian Ministry of
Transport initialed the text of an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement.
Secretary Slater will sign formally the agreement on behalf of the United
States on June 21 when he meets in San Francisco with his Malaysian
counterpart.
Secretary Travels to CA: On June 21, Secretary Slater will attend a
meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in San Francisco, CA. The
Secretary will also make a $30.9 million grant announcement for 36 trolley
buses and rehabilitation of a maintenance facility in San Francisco.
Mayor Brown will accept on behalf of the city.
Secretary to Attend Grant Agreement Signing: On June 20, Secretary Slater
will participate in a signing ceremony for a FFGA to extend the
Sacramento, CA light rail transit system 6.3 miles. This is one of the
six FFGAs which the Administration announced an intent to enter into in
March, 1996. He will also present a $7.9 million grant to begin land
acquisition and construction of the extension.
NSTC Transportation Research and Development Committee Meeting: On June
18, Deputy Secretary Downey chaired a NSTC Transportation Research and
Development Committee meeting. Participants reviewed the progress of NSTC
interagency teams in developing investment plans for the proposed
transportation partnership initiatives and research and education agenda.
Access Control Problems at Miami International Airport: FAA Security is
investigating apparent falsification of background/employment checks by
Million Air, a cargo carrier at Miami International Airport. The problems
were discovered by an INS sweep of Million Airs facility. It found a
number of employees who are illegal aliens but have been issued IDs
authorizing unescorted access to the airports secure areas.
Drugs Found on American Trans Air (AMTA): On June 10, a mechanic
performing routine maintenance on an AMTA aircraft at St. Louis found four
large suitcases containing 800 pounds of marijuana. The aircraft had
arrived on June 9 from Montego Bay. ACS Security is working with Customs
to determine where the bags were placed on the aircraft. Security
concerns center on security of the aircraft and access controls at St.
Louis, Montego Bay, and other airports at which the aircraft recently
operated.
CSX Accidents and Audit Review: On June 16, a team from FRA met with CSX
officials in Jacksonville, FL to discuss an action plan addressing the
safety concerns of FRA following the recent accidents in Cyprus, FL and
Scary, WV. FRA will audit CSXs efficiency tests and procedures, begin a
review of the CSX Dispatch Center in Jacksonville, FL and inspect rail
defect reports and track maintenance procedures.
Investigation into Vandalism of Pan American World Airways Aircraft at
Kennedy International Airport: On June 11, during a preflight maintenance
inspection at the TWA Terminal at JFK, several severed wires were found on
a Pan American World Airways Airbus 300. FAA and the FBI are
investigating. There has been considerable media reporting on the incident
U.S. Coast Guard and Haiti Seize Suspect Boat: On June 10, the Coast
Guard Cutter THETIS, with an embarked Haitian ship riders, encountered a
suspicious boat off Haiti. The boat headed to shore where 5 suspected
smugglers escaped. Although no contraband was found, the Haitian
government took possession of the boat. The Cutter THETIS was operating
in support of Operation FRONTIER ADVANCE, a joint United States-Haitian
counter narcotics operation centered around Haiti.
Update to Missing Coast Guard Helicopter in Humboldt Bay, CA: A massive
search covering 27,000 square miles (roughly equivalent to the State of
Maine) by 5 Coast Guard Cutters and 43 Coast Guard, Navy, and Air Force
search flights was suspended on June 12 after yielding only small pieces
of the helicopter. The 4 Coast Guard aircrew, LT Jeffrey Crane, LTJG
Charles Thigpen, AD3 Richard Hughes, and ASM3 James Caines are presumed
lost. Acting on a Coast Guard request, the Navy is deploying deep
submergence surveillance equipment to the crash area to assist in the
ongoing investigation. Admiral Kramek officiated at a formal memorial
ceremony at Coast Guard Air Station Humboldt Bay on June 16. A Coast
Guard C-130 flew members of the immediate family over the crash site for a
wreath-laying ceremony afterwards. Secretary Slater spoke with the
relatives of the missing Coast Guardsmen by phone.
Drilling Rig Explosion: On June 16, 30 miles NW of Morgan City, LA, an
uninspected drilling rig experienced a natural gas explosion and fire.
Two persons are reported dead, two remain missing, and 18 were evacuated.
Damage to the rig is estimated to be at $10-12 million. No waterways have
been reported closed. The Coast Guard is on scene and assisting the
Federal On Scene Coordinator. The operator, Denby Management , Inc., has
hired well control and spill response companies to extinguish the fire and
reduce pollution.
Tanker Runs Aground in Texas, Refloated Safely: On June 15, the U.S.
Tanker DENEB ran aground outside the Sabine, TX channel. It was loaded
with 521, 110 barrels of crude oil. Tugs were able to safely refloat the
tanker on June 16. The Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Port Arthur
monitored the situation. An underwater hull survey is now being conducted
on the tanker.
TWA 800 Search Leader Commander Retires: Rear Admiral John Linnon,
Commander, First Coast Guard District (New York, New England) and
commander of all Coast Guard search operations for TWA Flight 800 will
retire after nearly 40 years of Coast Guard service in a formal ceremony
in Boston, MA on June 28.
FAA Opens Door for More Controllers in New York, New Jersey: On June 11,
in a report to Congress, the FAA announced that the three major New York
area air traffic control towers will meet or exceed authorized staffing
levels by the end of fiscal year 1997. By the end of fiscal year 1998,
the larger facilities, the New York air route traffic control center and
New York terminal radar approach control, will also have achieved their
hiring goals.
Aviation - Brunei: In April, the United States and Brunei initialed the
text of an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement. It is anticipated that the
agreement will be signed on June 20 at the State Department.
Aviation - Barbados: Aviation negotiations with Barbados will be held in
Washington on June 19-20 to discuss the desire of Barbados for new route
and code-sharing authority. The U.S. will seek an "Open-Skies" agreement.
Aviation - Egypt: Negotiations with Egypt are scheduled for the week of
June 23 in Washington. Egypt requested the talks to discuss the expansion
of civil aviation services between the United States and Egypt.
Aviation - France: The French have agreed to resume aviation negotiations
in Paris on July 9-11 looking toward a liberal aviation agreement. While
the U.S. is seeking an "Open-Skies" aviation agreement phased in over a
3-year period, the French have proposed a 9-year phase culminating in a
liberal arrangement for U.S.-France services only.
Fly Quiet in Chicago: On June 17, FAA Great Lakes Regional Administrator
Cecelia L. Hunziker joined the Chicago Department of Aviation for a press
conference to announce a joint effort on noise control. This represents a
partnership with OHare and Midway noise compatibility commissions,
airlines, City of Chicago, other local communities surrounding OHare and
the FAA. Efforts include soundproofing homes and schools surrounding
OHare and Midway Airports.
NHTSA Pursues Automated Collection Notification(ACN) System: The NTSB, at
their Board Meeting on June 10, talked about a black box for automobiles.
As part of NHTSAs overall plan to improve highway safety and to
facilitate the development and implementation of Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS), NHTSA is conducting an Operational Field
Test of an ACN System (black box). This operational test commenced in
October 1995 with the signing of a cooperative agreement between the
Calspan Corporation and NHTSA. Between October, 1995 and June, 1997 the
ACN system was designed and fabricated. From July to November, the
systems will be installed in 1,000 volunteers vehicles. The start of data
collection will coincide with the installation of the system and will
continue for approximately 1 year. At the conclusion of data collection a
final report, addressing the system performance in detail, will be issued.
Pennsylvania Avenue: On June 2, the Department of Treasury publicly
released the Environmental Assessment on the Implementation of White House
Security Review Vehicular Traffic Restriction Recommendations for the
Pennsylvania Avenue. On June 16 and 18, the chief of staff and FHWA
officials attended a White House meeting to discuss potential remedial
traffic measures.
NTSB Finding in Amtrak Silver Spring Accident: On June 17, the NTSB
issued the probable cause for the 1996 Amtrak/MARC accident that resulted
in the deaths of 12 people at Silver Spring, MD. The NTSB cited the
engineer, train crew, FRA, FTA, CSX Railroad and MARC as contributing to
the cause of the accident. Specifically, the NTSB was critical of the FRA
and FTA for failing to conduct a comprehensive human factors analysis
before allowing the signal on the CSX line to be removed. The NTSB issued
13 recommendations to FRA, 3 to the FTA and I to the Department.
Piper PA-32 Landing Gear Collapse at National Airport: On June 16, a
Piper PA-32 experienced the collapse of its left main landing gear after
landing on Runway 15 at Washington National Airport. The airplane came to
rest at the intersection of Runways 15 and 18, closing the airport for
about one hour causing six aircraft to be delayed a maximum of 31
minutes. Prior to landing, the pilot reported landing gear problems and
performed a fly-by. The tower controllers reported that the gear appeared
to be extended. The three occupants were uninjured, but the aircraft
sustained minor damage to the bottom of the left wing. An FAA inspector
participated in the NTSBs on-scene investigation. The NTSB is continuing
its investigation into the cause of the gear failure.
General Electric Engines Airworthiness Directive: On June 17, FAA issued a
final rule airworthiness directive requiring replacement of existing fan
guards with new, improved fan containment guards to be accomplished within
two years on 200 aircraft which have General Electric CF700 series turbo
fan engines. This is the result of an accident in Paris wherein
uncontained fan blades separated from the engine during an overspeed,
resulting in engine failure and a subsequent crash.
Submission of Aviation Accident Plans: After substantial compliance
efforts by the Department and NTSB, all operating air carriers have now
filed aviation accident plans as required under the Family Assistance
Act. No new air carrier or air carrier whose authority has been suspended
will be allowed to operate without first filing the required plan.
NTSB/TWA 800 Update: FAA and NTSB staff met on June 18 to discuss the
status of FAA action on the NTSB recommendations, the data supporting
those recommendations, and what other activities the FAA has accomplished
since the recommendations were issued. FAA has placed a notice in the
Federal Register asking for public comment on the NTSB recommendations by
August 1. FAA is completing a formal report that summarizes our
assessment of a possible TWA 800 accident scenario that may lead to an FAA
airworthiness directive to inspect B-747 airplane wires in the inboard
wing tanks. That report is due to be transmitted to NTSB by the end of
June. FAA is working with Boeing to conduct detailed inspections of ten
B-747 aircraft that have recently been taken out of service to assess the
condition of the center fuel tank components. FAA is also publicly
supporting Boeing's program to work with the airlines to inspect older
B-747 aircraft to evaluate the condition of the wiring and other fuel tank
components. FAA is also encouraging international aviation authorities to
ask their airlines to support this action.
Acquisition Management System Report: On June 18, FAA issued a report on
its internal review of our one-year old acquisition management system for
acquiring goods and services. The review shows that the new system is
saving time and money for both the agency and the companies that bid for i
ts contracts, cutting the time to award contracts greater than $100,000 by
more than a third. Based on interviews with industry executives, the
reforms have saved industry an estimated 30-40 percent over previous bid
and proposal costs. The report also outlines several areas where the FAA
could improve our system. This internal evaluation complements a
congressionally-mandated independent review of the FAA's acquisition
system, which will be done by Booz-Allen & Hamilton, Inc., and should be
completed this fall.
NTSB Hearing: On June 17, NTSB met to review the Delta MD-88 accident in
which the aircraft struck approach lights and a runway support pier while
landing at LaGuardia Airport in NY. The Board will issue a probable cause
and recommendations.
Great Lakes Airlines Update: After voluntarily suspending service to 80
cities on May 16, at the request of the FAA, the carrier has now been
permitted to resume service to 19 cities. Thirteen of their 58 aircraft
have been returned to service.
Maritime Security Program - Lykes Transfer of Contracts/Foreign Interest:
MARAD is continuing its review of Lykes latest submissions in its
application for MARAD approval of a reorganization in bankruptcy and a
proposed asset sale and vessel charter to a subsidiary of Canadian Pacific
Ltd. Final determination in this matter is expected by the end of June.
Japan/China Maritime Talks: Talks will be held with Japan beginning June
23, and with China beginning June 25. Japan has not made progress in
resolving U.S. carrier doing business problems in Japanese ports as
anticipated under a recent Memorandum of Consultations (MOC). With China,
a negotiated solution was reached a year ago that would allow U.S.
carriers to engage in freight forwarding. The Chinese have created a new
roadblock to prevent that solution from taking effect. The Department
hopes to make progress in eliminating these problems.
$1.2 for Lansing Intermodal Transit Center: On June 13, Secretary Slater
announced the award of $1.2 million in FTA funds for the Capital Area
Transportation Authority for the construction of the intermodal Ground
Transportation Center in downtown Lansing.
FTA Grants Awarded: On June 16, FTA awarded $10.8 million to the Maryland
Mass Transit Administration for articulated buses for Baltimore, MD, and
replacement buses for Montgomery County, MD. Also on June 16, FTA awarded
$1.1 to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the expansion of a
park-n-ride facility. On June 13, FTA awarded $14.8 to the City of
Richmond, VA for the rehabilitation of a downtown multimodal
transportation center.
Federal Harbor Maintenance Tax Found Unconstitutional: On June 3, the
United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed an earlier
decision of the United States Court of International Trade, that had held
that the federal ad valorem Harbor Maintenance Tax imposed on cargo moving
through U.S. ports is unconstitutional under the Export Clause of the
Constitution insofar as it is levied on export cargo. In addition to
providing the sole source for all federally-funded harbor maintenance and
dredging projects, the Harbor Maintenance Tax also provides virtually all
of the funding for the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation.
Since the Federal Circuit's decision involves only the collection of fees
on export shipments, it does not at this juncture end the Harbor
Maintenance Tax in its entirety. The Commercial Litigation section of the
Justice Department intends to ask the Solicitor General's Office to seek
certiorari review of the decision before the Supreme Court. The Office of
General Counsel is working on a letter to the Justice Department
supporting Supreme Court review.
Revision of Gate Requirements for High-Lift Device Controls: On June 9, a
NPRM to amend Part 25 of the Federal Aviation Regulations to revise the
requirements concerning gated positions on the control used by the pilot
to select the position of an airplanes high-lift devices was published in
the Federal Register. The proposed amendment would update the current
standards to take into account the multiple configurations of the
high-lift devices provided on current airplanes to perform landings and
go-around maneuvers. The proposed amendment would also harmonize these
standards with those being proposed for the European Joint Aviation
Requirements. The comment period will close September 8.
Emergency Relief for South Dakota, Ohio: On June 16, Secretary Slater
announced an award of $14.2 million in FHWA emergency relief funds to
continue repairs on federal-aid roads and bridges in South Dakota damaged
during spring flooding. In addition, to help Ohio in its flood-recovery
efforts, Secretary Slater announced that the state would receive $18.9
million in FHWA emergency relief funds to repair damage from storms and
flooding in February and March.
Emergency Relief Funds - Idaho: Bingham and Jefferson counties in
eastern Idaho declared a state of emergency on June 11 under the Governors
May 18 statewide Emergency Proclamation because of flooding of the Snake
River. The Idaho Transportation Department is taking measures in the Bla
ckfoot area to keep the Snake River from flooding I-15. The situation may
get worse because many of the reservoirs are at capacity. The only road
closure is on Route 33 in the Driggs area.
Emergency Relief - Federal Lands: The Western Federal Lands Highway
Division (WFLHD) reports the rapid melting of above average snowpack in
northern parts of Washington and Idaho and in western Montana is causing
severe flood damage. The Colville Indian Reservation recently suffered up
to $2 million in road and bridge damage. Eight National Forests in
Hidaho and Montana have road and bridge damage estimated at $4 million.
The Bureau of Land Management in Idaho is also reporting damage.
WORK ON PRESIDENTIAL POLICY PRIORITIES
WELFARE TO WORK
Transportation Workshops: On June 24, the FTA and HHS in Boston, MA will
convene a meeting of stakeholders involved in planning and providing
transportation services for welfare recipients. These regional
"welfare-to-work" meetings will bring together state and local human
services officials to examine the issue of transportation in implementing
the states' welfare reform implementation plans throughout the nation.
SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT
Mid-America Regulatory Commissioners Discuss Pipeline Safety: RSPA is
participating on a panel, Safety and Environmental Concerns in Natural
Gas Expansion, at the Mid-America Regulatory Commissioners Conference
Business Program in Des Moines, IA on June 16-17. Other participants at
the conference include Vice President Al Gore and FCC Chairman Reed
Hundt. The Mid-America Conference provides senior policy makers with an
opportunity to exchange views on a host of regulatory issues.
NOTABLE CONGRESSIONAL ACTIVITY
Press Conference: On June 12, Congressman Wolf held a press conference on
management of the FAA. He expressed serious concern about what he called
a lack of leadership at the FAA, deliberately misleading Congress on the
Potomac project, air traffic staffing issues, lack of Doppler weather
radars and wasting taxpayer dollars.
Congestion Mitigation Air Quality: On June 18, the House Commerce
Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing on the Congestion
Mitigation Air Quality program. Kevin Heanue, Director of the Office of
Environment and Planning, Federal Highway Administration, will testify on
behalf of the Department, along with a representative from the EPA.
U.S. Japan Bilateral Negotiations: On June 19, the Senate Commerce,
Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation will hold a hearing on
U.S.-Japan bilateral negotiations. Assistant Secretary for International
Affairs Charlie Hunnicutt will testify.
Garvey Nomination: On June 26, the Senate Commerce, Science and
Transportation Committee will hold a hearing on the nomination of Jane
Garvey to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
Air Traffic Control Technology: On June 24, the House Science
Subcommittee on Technology will hold a hearing on air traffic control
technology. A witness from the FAA will testify.
Market-Based Solutions to Air Service Problems for Medium-Sized Communities
: On June 25, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on
Aviation will hold a hearing on market-based solutions to air service
problems for medium-sized communities. The Department will testify.
National Airways System Modernization: On July 7, the Senate Commerce,
Science and Transportation Committee will hold a hearing on national
airway system modernization.
Budget Reconciliation: On June 11, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee approved, by voice vote, a $736 million
reconciliation plan, which provides the transportation component of the
additional revenues necessary to implement the budget resolution. Of the
$736 million, $500 million is derived from the sale of Governors Island,
$196 million from an extension of the vessel tonnage fee on vessels
visiting U.S. ports and $50 million from the sale of air rights over Union
Station.
On June 17, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee will
mark up its budget reconciliation plan.
ISTEA Developments: House and Senate staff continue to meet to discuss
ISTEA reauthorization legislation. However, the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee and the Senate Environment and Public Works
Committee do not appear ready to introduce committee bills any time soon.
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Shuster has stated
that he is still reviewing options following the recent budget vote.
Environment and Public Works Committee Members remain divided over their
support for STEP 21, ISTEA Works or STARS 2000 legislation.
Full Funding Grant Agreements: Five Republican Members of the Senate
Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation have written to the
Secretary requesting that the Department refrain from executing any new
Full Funding Grant Agreements prior to the reauthorization of ISTEA. The 5
Members were Senators Domenici, Bond, Bennett, Gorton and Faircloth.
Secretary's Schedule
June 20-21
Secretary Slater will attend a meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in
San Francisco, CA.
June 21-24
Secretary Slater travels to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, for the
Asia-Pacific Economic Council meeting.
The Deputy Secretary
June 23
The Deputy Secretary will participate in the Intelligent Transportation
Society of
NYS's Annual Conference in Cooperstown, NY.
June 25
The Deputy Secretary will deliver remarks at the St. Louis Regional
Commerce & Growth Association's Annual Leadership Conference in
Washington, DC.
July 23-25
The Deputy Secretary will participate in AMTRAK meetings in Los Angeles,
CA.
August 5
The Deputy Secretary will participate in the Institute of Transportation
Engineers' Annual Meeting in Boston, MA.
August 7
The Deputy Secretary will attend the joint ITS America/National Automated
Highway Systems Consortium (NAHSC) "Technical Feasibility Demonstration"
in San Diego, CA.
August 11-12
The Deputy Secretary will attend the ITS America Board Meetings in San
Diego, CA.
Modal Administrators/Assistant Secretaries
June 18-22
FRA Administrator Molitoris will travel to Paris, France, to delivery a
keynote address to the European Transport Commissioner and 200 European
rail leaders on the occasion of the international Union of Railways 75th
anniversary.
June 19
NHTSA Deputy Administrator Recht will speak at the Annual Automotive
Litigation Conference in Arlington, VA.
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt will
testify before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on
Aviation.
June 20
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the Coast Guard Academy change of command.
FRA Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will meet with the Australian Minister of
Transport to discuss rail issues affecting the United States and Australia.
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will address the Mothers Against Drunk
Driving Board of Directors Meeting at the White House.
June 21
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt will
represent the Department at a pre-ministerial APEC Senior Officials
meeting in Victoria, Canada.
June 22-24
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will participate in the APEC meeting in
Victoria, British Columbia.
MARAD Administrator Herberger will participate in the APEC meeting in
Victoria, British Columbia.
June 23
Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy Kruesi will be the keynote
speaker at the 68th annual meeting of the Association for Transportation
Law, Logistics and Policy in Santa Fe.
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will deliver remarks at the American Gas
Associations monthly meeting in Washington, D.C.
June 24
FTA Administrator Linton will participate in a Welfare to Work Workshop in
Boston, MA.
FRA Administrator Molitoris and Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will attend
the full meeting of the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee in Baltimore,
MD.
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will be the keynote speaker at the Corporate
Occupant Protection Symposium co-sponsored by the Air Bag Safety Campaign,
National Safety Council, and the network of Employers for Traffic Safety
in Chicago, IL.
June 24-25
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the CINCs Conference at the Pentagon.
June 25
Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs Hunnicutt is
scheduled to testify before the House Transportation and Infrastructure
Subcommittee on Aviation.
OSDBU Director Hopewell will participate in the DOT/OSDBU Transportation
Marketplace Conference in Detroit, MI.
FHWA Executive Director Kane will attend the quarterly Central Artery
senior management meeting in Boston, MA.
June 25-26
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will visit Boeing in Seattle, WA.
June 26
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the retirement ceremony for Rear Admiral
Donnell in Yorktown, VA.
Governmental Affairs Assistant Secretary Palmer will attend the Grand
Opening Ribbon cutting at the Austin/Bergstrom International Airport in
Austin, TX.
FTA Administrator Linton will deliver the keynote address at the Project
Action Conference in Pittsburgh.
June 26-27
FRA Administrator Molitoris and Deputy Administrator Itzkoff will
participate in the FRA strategic planning retreat at Solomons Island, MD.
June 27
FTA Administrator Linton will speak at an Urban Impact, Inc. luncheon in
Birmingham, AL.
MARAD Administrator Herberger will speak at the Navy League National
Convention Awards Luncheon in Boston, MA.
June 27-28
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend the change of command for the Commander,
First Coast Guard District, and the Navy League National Convention in
Boston, MA.
June 29-July 3
Inspector General Mead will make oversight visits to Seattle and San
Francisco Regional Offices. He will visit Boeing Corporation on July 1.
July 1
USCG Admiral Kramek will attend a meeting with the Webb Institute in NYC.
July 6-14
USCG Admiral Kramek will meet with Federal Border Service leaders in
Russia.
July 10
FAA Acting Administrator Valentine will visit Piper Aircraft in Vero
Beach, FL.
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will address the National League of
Cities Board Meeting in Oklahoma City, OK.
July 11
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will discuss the Garrett A. Morgan
Technology and Transportation Futures Program with representatives of the
Oakland Port Authority in Oakland, CA.
July 12-19
USCG VADM Herr will attend meetings with the International Maritime
Organization in London.
July 15
RSPA Deputy Administrator Coyner will deliver remarks at the American Gas
Associations Legal Forum in Napa, CA.
July 22
USCG Admiral Kramek will address the Master Pilot Information Exchange
Workshop in Crystal City.
July 23
USCG Admiral Kramek will speak at the National Naval Officers Association
meeting in Annapolis, MD.
July 24
USCG Admiral Kramek will address flag and general officers from all
services participating in the CAPSTONE program.
July 24-25
FRA Administrator Molitoris will travel to Oakland, CA, to participate in
Amtraks Board and Committee Meetings.
USCG Admiral Kramek will host the Senior Advisory Group/Quality Council
meeting with senior Coast Guard flag officers.
July 27
NHTSA Administrator Martinez will participate in San Francisco Giants
Traffic Safety Day, San Francisco, CA.
July 29
USCG Admiral Kramek will host the Congressional Coast Guard Birthday
Celebration at the Rayburn Building.
July 30-August 3
USCG Vice Admiral Herr will attend events at the annual Coast Guard
Festival in Grand Haven, MI.
August 3-6
BTS Director Lakshmanan will participate in the 67th Institute of
Transportation Engineers Annual Meeting in Boston, MA.
August 13
Admiral Kramek will attend The Interdiction Committee luncheon/meeting.
August 28
USCG Vice Admiral Herr will be the guest speaker at the Grand Military
Ball for the Chief Petty Officers Association National Convention in
Cleveland, OH.
Media Inquiries
NHTSA Administrator Martinez was a guest June 17 on NPRs Diane Rehm
listener call-in show. The topic was air bag safety.
CBS Evening News, weekend edition, June 20, will join NHTSA Administrator
Martinez for a visit to the Baltimore Trauma Center, where he will
describe injuries from automobile accidents. Air date not known.
Fortune Magazine, June 12, interviewed NHTSA Administrator Martinez for a
story on officials in government whose decisions affect business.
Publication date not known.
USA Today, June 13, requested interviews with FAA officials closely
involved with the TWA 800 investigation, for a piece focusing on the human
side of the investigation. Interviews will be arranged with the Director,
Office of Accident Investigation and the Associate Administrator, Office
of Civil Aviation Security. Publication expected in July, at anniversary
of crash.
USA Today, June 9, requested background information on the number of
female versus male air traffic controllers, now and in the past.
Publication expected this week.
The Washington Post, July 7, and The Journal of Commerce, July 17, will
interview Acting SLSDC Administrator Sanders about the St. Lawrence Seaway
Development Corporation becoming a performance-based organization.
Publication dates not known.
U.S. News and World Report is preparing a story on the impact of weather
on aviation and air traffic. Reporter will tour Dulles International
Airport June 19 for background information.
The Washington Post is preparing an article on the Maritime Security
Program, focusing on Senator Lotts support for the MSP and for the
maritime industry.
The New York Times plans to write a story on alleged predatory pricing in
the airline industry. The Times is preparing a short piece for the June
22 travel section on DOTs new consumer airfare report, which is not the
predatory pricing story.
Good Morning America: Consumer reporter Steve Filmer is asking about the
possibility of doing a segment on the final New Car Assessment Program
test results, probably later this month.
Newsweek: Reporters Andrea Weider and Julie Halpert asked for
information on teen drivers for a possible story on alcohol, speeding and
graduated licensing.
MSNBC interviewed Aida Berkovitz in the Region 9 office about a new
device known as Talking Signs, which assist the blind and the visually
impaired. San Francisco is the first city to use these devices at
intersection crosswalk locations. No word on the date of the broadcast or
if the Berkovitz interview will be included. (June 10)
The Bureau of National Affairs interviewed Jeff Lindley of the ITS office
about a provision in the NEXTEA proposal on communications spectrum for
dedicated short-range communications. A story ran the week of June 9.
West Publishing requested information on the Iroquois Pipeline Case.
States News Service requested a copy of OIGs recently issued Semiannual
Report to Congress.
FOIA REQUESTS
Safety issues, from January 1994 to the present, related to electronic
devices used by passengers while on-board commercial aircraft -- American
Journal
Airworthiness directives on Lockheed 382 model aircraft -- Willamette
Week, Portland, OR
Enforcement Investigative Reports regarding Great Lakes Aviation, Ltd.
Chicago Sun-Times
Point of Contact: For the weekend of June 21-22, Michael Huerta will be
the contact. He can be reached through the FAA Operations Center at (202)
267-3333.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Maurice Daniel ( CN=Maurice Daniel/O=OVP [ UNKNOWN ])
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 15:36:51.00
SUBJECT: State Treasurers
TO: LYNN (Pager) #CUTLER (LYNN (Pager) #CUTLER [ UNKNOWN 1)
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
Do you know if any of the three State treasuers are still coming to DC for
the NEXTEA event?.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Courtney Manning ( Courtney Manning [ UNKNOWN ])
CREATION DATE/TIME:18-JUN-1997 18:08:51.00
SUBJECT: EPA Weekly Report
TO: Cabinet Affairs ( Cabinet Affairs [ UNKNOWN
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM: CAROL M. BROWNER
SUBJECT:
Weekly Report for June 18, 1997
WORK ON PRESIDENTIAL INITIATIVES
Lake Tahoe: Administrator Browner and Assistant Secretary of the Army for
Civil Works Martin Lancaster are hosting a workshop on Lake Tahoe water
quality on 6/18 in preparation for the Presidential Forum on Lake Tahoe.
One of the primary objectives of the workshop is to identify water quality
issues, problems and solutions for the Vice President and President to
address during their 7/25-26 visits to Lake Tahoe. Members of the Lake
Tahoe community, including representatives of the business, tourism and
recreation industries, are concerned about the declining water quality of
Lake Tahoe and its affect on the economic viability of the region.
In addition to hosting the public workshop, Administrator Browner will
meet with local officials and community members to discuss their views on
issues affecting Lake Tahoe. She will also hold a press conference at the
edge of Lake Tahoe to discuss the Administration-wide process underway to
address the concerns of the Lake Tahoe community.
Racial Reconciliation: EPA is working with White House staff to address
racial reconciliation issues, specifically as they pertain to
environmental justice issues.
In accordance with Executive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address
Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations,
Administrator Browner has established an environmental justice program to
address disproportionately high and adverse public health and
environmental impacts in minority communities and low-income communities.
KEY AGENCY NEWS
Champion Paper Mill: This week we are circulating a settlement framework
that addresses the effects of the Champion pulp and paper mill on water
quality in the Pigeon River. This framework will satisfy the public
health concerns of the citizens of Tennessee and fulfill North Carolina ,S
economic needs.
EPA is in the process of reevaluating the permit and water quality
variance issued by North Carolina for the Champion Paper mill. The mill
discharges into the Pigeon River which then flows into Tennessee.
Residents downstream, particularly those living in Tennessee, have voiced
strong concerns for many years over the color of the Champion Paper Mill
discharge, as well as dioxin discharges that have resulted in the
contamination of fish and sediment.
EPA, has hosted numerous meetings among top officials from North Carolina
and Tennessee since January of this year to broker resolution of these
concerns. An EPA-State team conducted several mill visits and has
assessed the mill ,S current and projected color removal capabilities and
associated costs.
Also, EPA assessed the economic costs of mill closure and downstream
economic benefits. Based on this work, an overall settlement concept was
endorsed by EPA, NC and TN in May. The framework provides for significant
reductions in color discharge, limitations to the NC water quality
variance, and continuous improvement in the mill ,S performance, each
expected to have a positive economic and environmental impact on the
downstream communities.
The three parties are scheduled to meet with Champion on 7/9 in
Washington, D.C. to discuss the proposed settlement; subsequent meetings
with community and environmental groups are planned.
Pesticide Residues in Spinach: USDA will soon release the Pesticide Data
Program ,S 1995 Report which will show that out of 32 different pesticides
found on spinach, 17 of those pesticides are not registered for use on
spinach. DDT was found in approximately 50% of the samples. Residues
were found at low levels and health risks are most likely minimal. The
violations are probably not the result of misuse but of crop rotation and
spray drift. The Pesticide Data Program was designed as a voluntary
program to provide data on pesticide residues of fruits and vegetables
annually.
CONGRESS
Legislative Action This Week
On 6/18, the House Commerce Subcommittee on Health and the Environment
(Bilirakis-FL) held a hearing on reauthorization of the Intermodal Surface
Transportation and Efficiency Act (ISTEA). EPA Assistant Administrator
for Policy, Planning and Evaluation David Gardiner testified on the
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program.
Administrator ,S Meetings & Travel
On 6/12, Administrator Browner met with Sens. Chafee (RI), Baucus (MT),
Smith (NH) and Lautenberg (NJ) to discuss Superfund Reauthorization.
Current Legislative Issues
Superfund. This week, bipartisan Senate Committee staff and EPA continued
legislative negotiations on the issue of cleanup remedy selection.
Minority staff have offered legislative language to the majority staff on
this issue. EPA has been providing technical assistance. Last week,
Administrator Browner met with Committee Chairman Chafee, Ranking Member
Baucus and Superfund, Waste Control and Risk Management Subcommittee
Chairman Smith (NH) and Ranking Member Lautenberg (NJ). The members
believe they need a schedule to guide the negotiations.
In the House, Commerce Committee and Transportation and Infrastructure
Committees staff have completed their stakeholder meetings. Also last
week, Committee staff and EPA completed several meetings to determine if
consensus exists on various Superfund provisions. Committee Majority
staff have indicated that, later this week they intend to offer
legislative language, but it is unclear which issue this language will
address. EPA continues to provide technical assistance.
Defense Reform Act / Defense Authorization Act. Last week, the House
National Security Committee (Spence SC) approved the Defense Reform Act.
Several environmental provisions not supported by the Administration are
contained in this bill, and EPA is concerned that DOD failed to
communicate sufficiently the Administration ,S opposition to these
provisions.
Title III in this bill would amend the Superfund program, the Solid Waste
Disposal Act and the Clean Air Act. EPA has sent a letter to Committee
Chairman Spence and bill sponsor, Rep. Dellums (CA), outlining our strong
opposition to these provisions. It now appears that Rep. Spence may
attempt to offer Title III of the bill as an amendment to the Defense
Authorization Act. Both the House and Senate versions of the Defense
Authorization Act are expected to be considered as early as 6/18. EPA
also has significant concerns with certain provisions in the Defense
Authorization Act.
The Administration will soon be finalizing a Statement of Administration
Policy that will detail our opposition to language within the Defense
Authorization Act that would amend the Toxics Substances Control Act and
Superfund, as well as Title III of the Defense Reform Act.
Environmental Research, Development and Demonstration Act. The House
Commerce Committee is expected to mark-up the Environmental Research,
Development and Demonstration Act this week. This bill, introduced by
Rep. Calvert (CA), was approved by the Science Committee on 4/16.
However, because of a jurisdictional dispute, Calvert ,S bill was
sequentially referred to House Commerce Committee, where it must be acted
upon by 6/20. EPA opposes this bill because the authorization level it
sets for EPA ,S research and development is $15 million less than the
President ,S request for FY +98.
UPCOMING HEARINGS & MARK-UPS
Date Committee
Subject
Testifying
6/26 Senate Environment and Public
Works Wetlands Office of Wetlands Oceans
Subc. on Clean Air, Wetlands,
Private
and Watersheds
Property and Nucl. Safety (Inhofe
OK)
Director Bob Wayland
7/15 House Resources Committee Initiative American
Heritage To be determined
(Young AK)
Rivers
PRESS
Clean Water: On Wednesday (6/18), Administrator Carol M. Browner
co-chaired a water quality workshop at the Lake Tahoe Water Quality
Conference with Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) H. Martin
Lancaster. The water quality workshop is one of three workshops being
held by Clinton Administration officials in preparation for the Lake Tahoe
Presidential Forum to be hosted by the President and Vice President on
July 25 and 26. The event was covered by the San Francisco Chronicle, San
Francisco Examiner, Sacramento Bee, Los Angeles Times, Tahoe Daily Tribune
, Las Vegas Review-Journal, Reno Gazette Journal, and Nevada ABC, CBS, and
NBC TV affiliates.
ADMINISTRATOR ,S SCHEDULE
6/25-26 Attend UN General Assembly Special Session
7/7 Address Howard University Environmental Studies convocation
7/9 Meeting with David Buzzelli and Larry Washington, Dow Chemical
7/11 Address to Friday Forum
DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR'S SCHEDULE
6/20
Participate in the 1997 Annual Conference of Mayors and meet
with Democratic Mayors re: Ozone/PM Air Standards, San Francisco, CA
6/23 Meeting with representatives from the Coalition for Effective
Environmental
Information regarding Community
Right-to-Know issues
6/23 Address the American Chemical Society &Green Chemistry Awards
Program 8
REGULATORY ACTION
No major regulatory action occurred this week.
FOIA REQUESTS
This week, EPA received 360 requests for information. The Agency has
received a total of 10,659 inquiries this year. We received no requests
of interest this week.
Weekend Contact: Peter Robertson
Chief of Staff
H: (703) 920-8428
Pager: 1-800-759-7243 PIN 471-0595
cc: Kitty Higgins
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Franklin F. Urteaga ( CN=Franklin F. Urteaga/OU=OSTP/O=EOP [ OSTP
CREATION DATE/TIME:23-JUN-1997 17:53:48.00
SUBJECT: Final Version of Tech Div. Description
TO: Jason Y. Kim CN=Jason Y. Kim/OU=OSTP/O=EOP @ EOP [ OSTP
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
OSTP TECHNOLOGY DIVISION
The Technology Division leads the White House effort to develop and
implement federal policies for harnessing technology to advance the
competitiveness of the U.S. economy and advance national goals such as
education, environmental quality, public safety, and national security.
The division's priorities fall into three main categories: Aeronautics and
Space; Information Technology; and Manufacturing and Transportation.
Acting Associate Director Henry Kelly oversees all division activities and
participates directly in several initiatives.
Confidential Assistant to the Associate Director (AD), Franklin Urteaga is
responsible for management of the immediate office. In this capacity, he
establishes and supervises administrative procedures to maintain and
expedite the daily operation of the office. In addition, he oversees the
AD's calendar and continually informs the AD on the status and progress of
assignments that the policy advisors are handling.
Ruth Fisher serves as an Administrative Assistant for the division, and
performs the front office's administrative duties including travel
arrangements, phone calls, office supplies, records maintenance and record
archiving, and other supportive duties. She also maintains Jeff Hofgard's
calendar.
Aeronautics and Space
Assistant Director Jeff Hofgard leads efforts related to aeronautics and
space, including the NASA budget, the International Space Station,
Inmarsat restructuring, commercial space issues, GPS policy, and aviation
safety. He works in close coordination with the other OSTP divisions as
well as OMB, OVP, NSC, and other agencies. Jeff's staff includes Steve
Moran, whose assigned policy areas include aeronautics and aviation, and
Jason Kim, who handles civil and commercial space issues.
Information Technology
Brian Kahin leads efforts related to information infrastructure, including
intellectual property, privacy, Internet administration, domain names, and
infrastructure development and implementation. Lori Perine is responsible
for activities supporting R&D for information technology and its
applications, including high performance computing and communications,
Next Generation Internet, and Global Information Infrastructure. She also
handles general technology policy issues related to manufacturing,
economic growth, and trade and competitiveness. Marjorie Dial coordinates
OSTP efforts related to technology for education and training.
Manufacturing and Transportation
Mark Bernstein leads efforts in manufacturing technology including energy
policy, focusing on the Administration's biomass initiative, climate
change and energy use, electricity restructuring and the development of a
partnership to advance innovative, environmentally friendly, resource
efficient and more durable construction technologies in housing. Don
Hillebrand leads the coordination of transportation and industrial R&D
including the Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles, ISTEA
reauthorization (NEXTEA), transportation specific environmental issues,
and technology innovation.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Franklin F. Urteaga ( CN=Franklin F. Urteaga/OU=OSTP/O=EOP [ OSTP ])
CREATION DATE/TIME:23-JUN-1997 10:42:38.00
SUBJECT: Samples of LRM Memos to Staff
TO: Christina M. Chase ( CN=Christina M. Chase/OU=OSTP/O=EOP @ EOP [ OSTP 1)
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
14 May 1997
MEMORANDUM TO LORI PERINE
From:
Franklin Urteaga
Re: Draft response for U.S. Senators letter on federal networking
and telecommunications policy
Dr. Kelly would appreciate your reviewing the attached document and
preparing a response for his review by Monday, May 19, 1997.
Thanks.
11 June 1997
MEMORANDUM TO MARK BERNSTEIN
From:
Franklin Urteaga
Re: Office of Consumer Affairs Oversight Testimony on Electricity
Reform/Consumer Issues
Dr. Kelly would appreciate your reviewing the attached document and
responding to it as soon as possible, considering that a response is due
by 1:00 pm today.
-
Thanks.
16 June 1997
MEMORANDUM TO DON HILLEBRAND
From:
Franklin Urteaga
Re: Legislative Referral Memorandum ) TRANSPORTATION Testimony on
HR1268 ISTEA Reauthorization
Dr. Kelly would appreciate your reviewing the attached document and
responding prior to the deadline of 4 pm, Monday, June 16, 1997.
-
Thanks.
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Jonathan T. Makler ( CN=Jonathan T. Makler/OU=OSTP/O=EOP [OSTP])
CREATION DATE/TIME:25-JUN-1997 12:38:49.00
SUBJECT: transportation interest
TO: Donald Hillebrand ( CN=Donald Hillebrand/OU=OSTP/O=EOP @ EOP [ OSTP )
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
Howdy! I am the intern who spoke with you yesterday morning at the OSTP
meeting. As promised, I am emailing you so you have my email address and
extension (66082) for future use. I would be extremely grateful if you
could notify me of opportunities to sit on anything having to do with
NEXTEA or even PNGV stuff. I am also interested in your experience of
working on these issues within this part of the government along te same
lines we were discussing yesteday. I don't know what you usually do for
lunch butmaybe we could coordinate that sometime.
look forward to hearing from you.
greenly,
jon makler
RECORD TYPE: FEDERAL (NOTES MAIL)
CREATOR: Jeffrey P. Morales ( CN=Jeffrey P. Morales/O=OVP [ UNKNOWN 1)
CREATION DATE/TIME:26-JUN-1997 14:27:56.00
SUBJECT: WSJ inquiry on Tipper
TO: Mary A. Dixon (CN=Mary A. Dixon/O=OVP @ OVP [ UNKNOWN 1)
READ:UNKNOWN
TEXT:
Asra Nomani, who's the trnasportation writer at the Wall Street Journal,
is doing a story on various lobbying efforts regarding the NEXTEA bill,
and one of the groups is bicyclists. I'm not sure how this all fits
together, but she's trying to nail down a story about a time, a few years
ago, when Tipper was bike riding and got a flat tire.
Can you get back to her on this, or have the right person in the press
office do it? She's at 862-6638. Thanks.