Protect homeland security training at FLETC-Artesia

The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia serves as a leading training site for the brave men and women who are our nation’s front line of defense. Over 500 dedicated FLETC staff in Artesia work hard every day to make sure that law enforcement agents from across the United States get the best quality training.

I have consistently fought for essential investments in FLETC’s vital homeland security missions, which is why I was stunned when President Trump floated the idea of eliminating a key program at FLETC as a part of his proposed budget in order to pay for a wall on the border that media reports estimate will cost as much as $21 billion.

The Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) Training program based At FLETC in Artesia, which began in the wake of the September 11thattacks, prepares pilots and flight crews for similar attempted armed takeovers of aircraft. Commercial pilots who volunteer their time to take courses in Artesia learn about defensive tactics to prevent and respond to attacks.

FLETC estimates that approximately 800 pilots and flight crewmembers participate in this program and learn how to keep our airways safe each year. In addition to the disturbing impacts on national security, if President Trump succeeded in eliminating this program it would mean a $20 million cut to funding for FLETC Artesia — a devastating hit to New Mexico’s economy.

While we work to keep our border secure and relentlessly target terrorists overseas, it’s imperative that we make every effort to secure the places Americans rely on to go about their daily lives.

Last year, I was proud to lead bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the missions and funding for Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers. As part of that effort, I stood up against challenges to keep the FFDO program here in Artesia. I remain focused on keeping our state’s facility at the forefront of training federal law enforcement officers.

I am calling on our new president to rethink his plans. Instead of threatening programs that actually keep us safe, President Trump should focus on how he can support our law enforcement officers — including Federal Flight Deck Officers — and consult with border communities on how to take real steps to address security concerns.

I will not waiver in standing up for the critical homeland security missions in Artesia and protecting the FLETC workers who are an important part of southeastern New Mexico’s economy.