FAA Reauthorization Legislation Approved by House Science Subcommittee

A House panel quickly approved its portion of this year's Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill Thursday.

The House Science and Technology Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics approved the bill (HR 2698), which contains provisions related to aeronautics research and development programs. It was approved by voice vote.

"This legislation is focused on ensuring the FAA has the tools it will need to keep the nation's air transportation safe, efficient and environmentally friendly," said subcommittee Chairman Mark Udall, D-Colo.

The approved sections of the bill would be worth $335 million in fiscal 2008, rising to $515 million in fiscal 2011.

Some of the provisions are geared toward keeping lawmakers apprised of the FAA's transition to a new air traffic control system. The bill would create new positions and new reporting responsibilities for the FAA, NASA and other agencies with a stake in the air traffic control system.

The measure also would reauthorize or create small programs for research on topics such as the impact of aviation on climate change and ways to improve the safety and efficiency of runway surfaces.

The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is still drafting the larger measure, which is expected to be released soon. The current authorization (PL 108-176) expires at the end of September.

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