WASHINGTON, D.C. - Federal legislation to end furloughs of air traffic controllers, is also expected to help keep the control tower open in St. Cloud.

The U.S. Senate acted quickly this week when the furloughs caused travel delays for millions.  The bill passed late last (Thursday) night without even a roll call vote. The House approved the measure today (Friday) on a 361-41 vote.

The legislation would give the Federal Aviation Administration authority to transfer up to $253 million from accounts that are flush into other programs, to prevent reduced operations and staffing through September 30th, which is the end of the fiscal year.

Senate officials says the available funds also should be able to prevent the closure of small airport towers around the country.

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