Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-8) issued the following statement regarding passage today of the Fiscal Year 2002 Transportation Appropriations Bill:

"This transportation spending bill is a critical part of our nation's rebuilding and response effort in the wake of September 11th.  It will strengthen our economy, greatly improve our homeland defense, and enhance the quality of life in our cities and towns.  Whether it is funding tighter security at our airports, or simply ensuring that our mass transit systems are upgraded, this bill will impact all of our lives."

"Importantly, this bill ensures adequate safety standards for Mexican carriers operating trucks within our country's borders.  Inspectors will be at our border crossings, proof of insurance will be demanded, and valid Commercial Driver's Licenses will be confirmed."

"Highway fatalities are the leading cause of death for persons in the United States of every age from 6 to 33 years old, and now safety will be a top priority when it comes to trucks operating in our country."

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