Dec. 18, 2019
Graves: Through the 2018 FAA reauthorization bill, we provided long-term, stable funding to the agency for continued investments in safety, airports and the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). In addition, I worked hard to include in the bill an additional $1 billion in Airport Improvement Fund (AIP) funding, specifically for small airports. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee also recently approved the Aviation Funding Stability Act, which protects the FAA from potential government shutdowns while providing an additional $650 million in AIP funding. There is always more we can do to help build and support our vital airport infrastructure network. I’ve always said, if you build a mile of road, you can travel one mile. But if you build a mile of runway, you can go just about anywhere in the world. That is why I will continue to lead efforts to maintain and modernize our nation’s airports.
Veasey: With the significant role aviation plays in my district and across Texas, I am committed to making robust investments in our aviation infrastructure. Recently, I participated in a meet-ing with the New Democrats Infrastructure Task Force and North Texas business leaders to dis-cuss how we repair and modernize our nation’s infrastructure. I look forward to continuing this work, with the goal of drafting comprehensive legislation that invests in our nation’s infrastructure needs, including the aviation system.
Graves: With nearly 220 members, the House GA Caucus is one of the largest caucuses in Congress; however, we can work together and expand membership. One of the most powerful things for a member of Congress is hearing directly from constituents on issues that matter to them. Through NBAA’s Contact Congress resource, I encourage NBAA members to reach out directly to your member of Congress to make sure that they are a member of the GA Caucus. As Congress confronts challenging topics – including infrastructure funding, aviation workforce needs, urban air mobility and the integration of UAS – a strong GA Caucus will ensure that the general aviation community’s voice is heard.
Veasey: Having a strong GA Caucus in the House enables members that might not be familiar with the industry to learn about its importance to their district. With 5,000 public-use airports in the U.S., the industry touches virtu-ally every congressional district. Recently, along with Representative Graves, I hosted a briefing for congressional staff to introduce them to GA. We had a strong turnout, with participation from nearly 50 congressional offices and briefings from the leaders of the major GA industry associations. Along with Representative Graves, we plan to hold additional events, and I encourage NBAA members to ask their elected officials in the House to join the GA Caucus.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.