Press Release

Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) today released the following statement after voting to pass bipartisan legislation aimed at protecting the safety of the flying public and securing the future of America’s aviation system by reauthorizing programs within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“A record number of Americans are flying this summer. It is critical that we continue strengthening aviation infrastructure to ensure reliable and modern travel experiences for passengers and promote safe standards for the aviation industry,” said Representative Ami Bera, who represents the 6th Congressional District which includes Sacramento International Airport (SMF). “This bipartisan bill will provide essential funding for safety and regulatory assistance for the FAA that will enhance air safety standards nationwide, including in Sacramento. I will continue working to provide the funding and resources needed to improve and modernize air travel for visitors to our capital region and look forward to working with our partners in the U.S. Senate to complete this year’s FAA re-authorization.”

The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act will provide oversight, improved planning tools and research funding, air traffic control regulation, and stronger consumer protections to grow and innovate our aviation sector. The legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives today with strong bipartisan support and now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

Rep. Bera has been a strong champion of SMF and Sacramento-region flyers. This past February, Rep. Bera announced that he helped secure $11.7 million in federal funding for the Concourse B expansion project at SMF. In June, Rep. Bera announced that he secured full funding to help build a new air traffic control tower at SMF.

Both funding projects were made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which Rep. Bera helped shepherd into law.