September 26, 2018

Today Representative Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District released the following statement regarding passage of H.R. 302, legislation reauthorization the programs of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA):

“This bill is a win for Nevada and a win for travelers,” said Congresswoman Titus a member of the House Aviation Subcommittee. “With record numbers of travelers visiting Southern Nevada via McCarran Airport, ensuring our aviation system remains safe and efficient is a top priority. Not only will this long-term legislation bring certainty to the aviation industry, but it also includes important provisions supporting our aviation workers, consumer protections for travelers, and critical advancements for the drone industry. Earlier this year, I was able to secure a vital extension for the authorization of the Nevada Unmanned Autonomous System (UAS) Test Range, which was set to expire next year. This final bill extends the important work at the UAS Test Range through 2023, allowing a critical low-altitude research project in coordination with NASA and the FAA to be completed. In addition, the bill includes my amendment to assist large airports, like McCarran, better navigate the lengthy FAA approval process for infrastructure projects.” 

The FAA Authorization also includes the Disaster Recovery and Reform Act (DRRA), bipartisan legislation to authorize programs under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

“Hurricane Florence’s impacts on the Carolinas and the ongoing battles against wildfires in the West are just the latest examples of the growing risks our communities face from natural disasters,” said Representative Titus, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management. “The passage of DRRA brings about some critical reforms to assist communities become more resilient and better prepared to deal with the impacts of global climate change. I am particularly happy to see some reforms that will help persons with disabilities rebuild accessibility-related infrastructure, such as ramps, which can be quite costly. As we know, animals and pets are also at risk in these disasters. So I am pleased to see provisions included in this bill authorizing national veterinary emergency teams to deploy with urban search and rescue canine units and to aid communities and rescued animals.”  

Traveler Protections Included in H.R. 302:

• Requires FAA to set a minimum standard for seat size and pitch

• Prevents airlines from involuntarily bumping passengers once they have boarded the aircraft

• Prohibits the use of cell phones in flight

• Requires all large and medium-hub airports provide private, sanitary nursing rooms for mothers.

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