Gianforte Protects Consumers, Critical Air Services in Montana

Press Release

Congressman Greg Gianforte voted today to modernize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), but only after ensuring Montana priorities, including Essential Air Service, were included in the bill.

"The FAA reauthorization bill addresses priorities important to Montana, particularly for our rural communities," Gianforte said.

"Montana airport operators have greater certainty so they can make critical infrastructure improvements. The bill protects Montanans in our rural communities by preserving the Essential Air Service and bringing greater transparency to air ambulance services," Gianforte said. "The legislation also improves how we address wildfires."

The FAA Reauthorization Act, H.R. 4, reauthorizes the FAA for five years. The bipartisan bill improves the safety of passengers, modernizes America's airport infrastructure, promotes aviation innovation, and provides reliable, stable funding for airport projects.

The bill includes priorities important to Montana. The legislation establishes a system to bring greater transparency and consumer protections to air ambulance services. The bill also assists states impacted by wildfires by promoting and encouraging prevention efforts.

Gianforte worked against a last-minute effort to strip away Essential Air Service (EAS), a vital program for rural Montana. EAS guarantees that smaller communities maintain flights from certified air carriers. Seven Montana communities are eligible for EAS designation, including Butte, Glasgow, Glendive, Havre, Sidney, West Yellowstone, and Wolf Point. The measure, which Gianforte voted against, failed.

Following the amendment's failure, Gianforte voted in support of the legislation, which passed the House 393-13. The measure will move to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

Montana's airport operators welcomed passage of the bill and appreciated Gianforte's leadership. Jeff Wadekamper, director of the Helena Regional Airport Authority, said, "We appreciate the efforts of Representative Gianforte and his staff toward passing a long-term aviation funding bill which helps sustain safety and development of the nation's aviation system. Consistent funding is necessary for airports to plan and carry out large capital projects efficiently."

Rob Ratkowski, director of the Glacier Park International Airport, said, "We are very happy to have a long-term FAA reauthorization bill. The provisions in this bill will bring stability to our funding sources, and allow airports like us to approach long-term development programs with certainty. We appreciate Congressman Gianforte's work on this important bill."

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