FAA is proposing a $12mil civil penalty Maintenance Issues

[WorldTraveler]

http://mobile.businessweek.com/articles/2014-07-28/faa-suggests-southwest-pay-12-million-fine-over-jet-repairs?campaign_id=yhoo

I don't usually comment on these things but a few facts should be noted.

This was work done in 2006-2009 at ATS.
It was resolved years ago.

Read this part of a story:
The FAA said Southwest flew the planes on numerous flights in 2009 and that the agency later approved the repairs after the airline provided proper documentation that the work had met safety standards. But the aircraft did not meet compliance for a certain period while they were being flown, which led to the fine announced on Monday.

In other words, WN proved that the skin change methods were satisfactory but are being fined for flying the planes before proving it.
At least that is how I read it.

because the FAA doesn't give up the right to fine an airline.

yes, the whole AA and WN issues validated it was a control thing and not a real safety issue, but this is the government