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President George W. Bush today signed into law the Fiscal Year 2002 Defense Appropriations bill. Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12) played a significant role in securing approval and support for many programs based in the Twelfth District, including the Joint Strike Fighter, V-22 and F-22 programs. Funding will allow for continued research, development, and procurement for these programs.

"This funding is a big win for our Fort Worth-based defense industry. Lockheed Martin and Bell-Textron have once again proven they are leaders in meeting our nation's defense needs. This funding means we hold on to important jobs in our area," Granger stated following the vote.

The Defense Appropriations Conference Report includes:

The Joint Strike Fighter program funded at $1.5 billion for research and development.

Funding for 11 V-22 transports (9 Marine version and 2 Air Force Special Operations versions.) The V-22 program is supported by up to 2,500 jobs at Bell-Textron plants in Fort Worth and this funding also stabilizes those jobs.

$3.9 billion in funding to be used in advanced procurement and research/development for the F-22. This program is currently supported by 2,000 jobs in Fort Worth and this funding stabilizes those jobs.

"Congress is working very hard to make sure our military needs are met during this critical time for national defense. I am very pleased the Fort Worth defense industry is able to contribute so significantly to this crucial effort," Granger added.