Rep. Joe Garcia visiting MIA to discuss sequester

Nationwide budget cuts hurting airport, causing long lines at Customs

MIAMI – Congressman Joe Garcia will hold a press conference at Miami International Airport Thursday to discuss the economic impact of federal cuts in Miami-Dade County.

Congressman Garcia sent a letter to members of Congress, urging them to increase funding for Customs and Border Patrol agents.

Two weeks ago, passengers at MIA experienced record wait times trying to go through Customs.

Congressman Garcia says total processing times reached up to four hours and during peak travel days, as many as 800 people missed their connecting flights.

Automatic spending cuts kicked in March 1st, meaning no more overtime for Customs and Border Patrol agents.

Congressman Garcia says MIA has been the hardest hit airport by the cuts.

The airport generates $33 billion for Miami-Dade County.