Schumer, Clinton Announce Key Senate Panel Approval of $12 Million in Defense Funding for Capital Region

Washington, DC - Senators Charles Schumer and Hillary Rodham Clinton welcomed approval by the Senate Appropriations Committee of the Fiscal Year 2008 Department of Defense Appropriations Bill, which includes $12 million for the Capital Region's Watervliet Arsenal, Arsenal Support Program Initiative (ASPI).

The bill will now proceed to the Senate floor for consideration. Following consideration and passage on the Senate floor, the bill will head into a Conference Committee where the House and Senate will resolve the differences between their versions. Following conference, the bill will again be sent to the House and Senate for final approval, after which it will be sent to the President for his signature.

"This is wonderful news for the Capital Region," said Schumer. "These critical funds will help us ensure our nation is equipped with the most cuttingedge technology and that the Watervliet Arsenal will continue to serve as a vital hub of economic activity. The Watervliet Arsenal directs research and produces innovation that is absolutely vital in this day and age. I will continue to aggressively push this bill through the appropriations process."

"This is wonderful news for the Watervliet Arsenal and the region. As the Arsenal continues to build its capacity in support of our men and women in uniform, so too it builds its reputation and role in support of the local economy. This is an important investment in the region for many reasons - not only are we supporting our troops serving overseas and at home, but we are also investing in local technology, local jobs, and the region's reputation for cutting edge research and development. I look forward to the bill's approval by the full Senate," Senator Clinton said.

Watervliet Arsenal - Arsenal Support Program Initiative (ASPI) $12 Million
The purpose of the Arsenal Support Program Initiative (ASPI) is to help maintain the viability of Army manufacturing arsenals and the unique capabilities of these arsenals in supporting national security interests. These funds will be used to help Watervliet Arsenal to secure new companies on site, bringing significant investment to the Capital Region and reducing the Army's cost of ownership.


###