The Tucson Representative introduced legislation two and a half years ago to combat the use of ultralight aircraft. Resembling gliders with a small engine and propeller, ultralights are used by drug smugglers to carry narcotics across the U-S/ Mexico border.
Giffords’ first bill passed the House, but was never heard in the Senate. She cosponsored another measure this year that increases the punishment for using ultralights and gives Border Patrol agents more tools to interdict them.
On the same day she submitted her resignation to focus on recovering from a gunshot wound, the Democrat cast her final vote as a member of Congress. Her bill passed unanimously.
A spokesman says Giffords is very gratified by the support of her colleagues and looks forward to the Senate quickly passing the measure so the president can sign it into law.