Tennessee Pilot Action Alert
The issue: State budget shortfall threatens airport funding
The Tennessee Legislature is desperately seeking solutions to a projected state budget shortfall of $351 million. The solution could threaten Tennessee airports and their improvement, development, and maintenance. In 1986, AOPA was instrumental in establishing the Tennessee Transportation Equity Fund. Monies in the transportation equity fund are derived from state sales tax revenues on aviation fuels and are dedicated to airport development, maintenance, and improvement. AOPA strongly opposes any proposal that would raid Tennessee's dedicated airport fund and remove $7.5 million to help balance the state budget.
Why it's important
Tennessee holds a leadership position in the nation for its longtime support of your state's extraordinary system of general aviation airports. The states economic progress and its success in attracting industry are accountable in large measure to Tennessee's transportation infrastructure. Its well-maintained system of 76 general aviation airports provides users of all types with safe and efficient access to the communities they serve.
Tennessee could lose millions of dollars in federal airport funding if it does not have the necessary matching state dollars to qualify for federal monies. If the legislature removes funds from Tennessee's transportation equity fund, it could have a detrimental impact on Tennessee's ability to fund its airports system.
What you should do
Pilots and aircraft owners are urged to contact your House and Senate members immediately. Letters and faxes are most effective, but e-mail and phone contacts are useful too. Please be sure that the first line of your letter clearly states that the letter is submitted in strong opposition to the removal of $7.5 million from the transportation equity fund. There are no bill numbers attached to specific budget items/options. It is especially important to describe how the decrease in state airport funding is important, how it affects you personally and your local airport. Emphasize the importance of Tennessee's system of general aviation airports to your state's economy and its ongoing economic progress.
Who to contact? Act now—timing is critical!
- Write to your House and Senate Members NOW.
This Web site provides contact information for both the House and Senate in Tennessee. - Send a copy to AOPA:
If you mail, fax, or e-mail your views on this issue to your elected officials, please do send a copy to AOPA State Legislative Affairs, 421 Aviation Way, Frederick, MD 21701, fax: 301/695-2214 . - Please help us get the word out. Copy and e-mail or mail this notice to your fellow pilots and aviation groups in Tennessee. Print it out and post it at your airport in public locations. Urge your airport manager, members of your airport commission, and your local officials to contact their representatives in the legislature and to oppose using transportation equity funds to balance the budget.
May 10, 2000
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