Phil Matier: Bay Area Lawmaker Concerned About Coast Guard Cutting Bridge Patrols
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – Revelations that federal budget cuts will mean less Coast Guard patrols at Bay Area bridges is being called "a huge concern" by East Bay Congressman Eric Swalwell.
Swalwell, a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, is a newcomer to Congress. He said part of his concern is that he's not sure when the security checks – or the funding – will come back.
Phil Matier: Bay Area Lawmaker Concerned About Coast Guard Cutting Patrols
Swalwell said he doesn't buy the "whack-a-mole" approach to dealing with the budget where "every time something pops up, we feel the need to fix it."
He was quick to point to the recent air traffic controller furloughs as a perfect example.
Swalwell said cutting patrols of the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge, is not the answer, and "makes our waterways less secure."
He said the only answer now may be a comprehensive budget deal.
You can hear Phil Matier's comments Monday through Friday at 7:50am and 5:50pm on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM.
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