Congressman Rob Menendez Supports Final Passage of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in Aviation Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rob Menendez today voted for the final passage of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in Aviation Act, the 2023 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization bill. The legislation includes provisions of Congressman Menendez’s Airline Employee Assault Prevention Act, as well as significant improvements for air travelers and support for diversification of the aviation industry.

 “Over the past few months, I have worked alongside my colleagues on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to develop a strong, bipartisan bill that delivers for all Americans and that’s exactly what this legislation does,” said Congressman Menendez. “I am proud to have supported this bill that will improve the flying experience for our constituents in the Eighth Congressional District including families and those living with disabilities. The bill also promotes diversity in the aviation industry and protects airline workers from assault and harassment.”

The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in Aviation Act includes reforms and improvements that will:

• Require airlines to develop policies to reimburse consumers for hotel and meal costs when a flight is cancelled or significantly delayed;
• Direct the U.S. Department of Transportation to create a road map to better accommodate wheelchairs onboard planes, to reduce damage to mobility aids, and to provide an annual report on disability-related consumer complaints;
• Support recruitment and retainment efforts for minority candidates for airline pilot, technical, and manufacturing positions;
• Mandate airlines to allow parents to sit with their children when space is available;
• Require the FAA to initiate rule-making on minimum dimensions of seat sizes; and
• Protect airline employees from assault and harassment.

Congressman Menendez serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he is a member of the Subcommittee on Aviation.