Cannon funding passes Senate

WASHINGTON — The Senate passed a bill Thursday that contains key funding for Cannon Air Force Base, according to a press release from Sen. Jeff Bingaman’s office.

The bill, which primarily funds operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, contains $364 million to purchase seven MC-130J model Combat Talon II, five of which will be headed to Cannon, according to the release.

It also sets aside enough funding for five CV-22s for Cannon; each will cost in excess $80 million, and $8 million for construction of a childcare facility.

“Cannon Air Force Base is getting the funding it needs to continue with necessary upgrades,” said Bingaman, D-N.M.

The bill can now be sent to President Bush for signature.