Speech #870121197

Now. with the increased authorization provided by S. 1703. together with the provision which will allow Alaska to participate on the same basis as the other States. we find that Alaska will be entitled. during the next 5 years. to an allocation of funds amounting to $3.994.000 annually. as compared with the meager $1.350.000 allowed under the bill we were able to pass in the 86th Congress. This is of major importance to my State and I know the benefits the increased funds will bring will be an exceptionally important contribution to the further development of Alaska. Another provision of S. 1703 which is of particular interest to Alaska. with its important international airport at Anchorage. is the committee amendment that will authorize various Federal agencies performing functions in connection with admission of foreign travelers. such as the Immigration and Naturalization Service. the Public Health Service. and the Customs Bureau. to acquire the space they need at airportsin contrast with the present arrangement which requires these facilities to be provided by the carriers. Since these are services on behalf of the Federal Government. it seems entirely fitting that this amendment should be adopted.