September 25, 2012, Washington, D.C. - As Congress reconvenes this month, the Aerospace States Association (ASA), led by Chairman Lt. Governor Mead Treadwell (AK), called on the congressional leadership to replace pending, indiscriminate funding cuts with an approach that would protect industry and security sectors.

"We understand that there are different views about the best approach to replace sequestration, but the process of compromise and negotiation must begin today," Treadwell said in a letter signed by lieutenant governors of both parties.

Over the next ten years, approximately $500 billion in funding reductions would impact the work of the Department of Defense. ASA's letter emphasized the damage this would do, not only to America's aerospace industry, but to national and economic security.

ASA encouraged federal leaders to work together on a solution that begins to address the nation's deficit, protects the vital work of the defense sector, NASA, the Federal Aviation Administration, and ensures that non-defense sector cuts are avoided, as well.

Other signatories included Lt. Governors Timothy Murray (MA), Kim Reynolds (IA), Brad Owen (WA), Ken Bennett (AZ), Todd Lamb (OK) and Kay Ivey (AL).

The letter can be read here.

### About ASA: ASA is a bi-partisan organization representing the grass roots of American aerospace and aviation. It is a 501(c)3 scientific and educational organization of Lieutenant Governors, Governor-appointed delegates and associate members from the aerospace industry, academia, and non-profit organizations. ASA was formed in 1993 to promote a state-based perspective in federal aerospace policy development and to support state aerospace initiatives that enhance economic development opportunities and student/teacher education outreach including the RWDC. ASA maintains direct ties to the executive branches of state governments throughout the nation.

Contact: Charles Huettner Phone: (202) 257-4872 Email: AerospaceStates@comcast.net

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Originally posted here:

Aerospace States Ask Congress to Act Against Sequestration