Washington, DC (WIBX) - Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressmen Richard Hanna and Bill Owens are urging the Air Force Material Command to support sustained funding for Rome Lab.

The bi-partisan Congressional delegation is highlighting the Air Force Research Lab's important role in current U-S cyber defense initiatives.

Under President Obama's budget proposal, Rome Lab would face a $30 million cut in funding.

The lawmakers are also asking the Air Force to expedite the hiring of a new director.

Rome Lab's current director, Davy Belk, will be transferring to Edwards Air Force Base on April 22nd and no plans for a replacement have been announced.

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