Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. BEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in firm opposition to H.R. 3935. I am deeply concerned about the provisions that would aggravate dangerous conditions at National Airport.

Section 502 would add new flights at National, already dramatically over capacity. Last month, there was a near miss where two airplanes almost collided at DCA on the busiest runway in America. Today, over a fifth of all flights at DCA are delayed on average for over an hour.

We have heard from Secretary Buttigieg, the FAA, and the Airport Authority. They have serious concerns about safety and increased delays if more flights are added.

Importantly, the House has already spoken and rejected this. I am grateful for the leadership of Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larsen, but we should not accept a backroom deal between Senators to reflect special interests.

The Senate refused to consider floor amendments that would have restored the House language because those who crafted this bill knew they would lose that vote. It is painful that this measure is still in the bill, despite widespread bipartisan opposition.

I cannot support a bill that hurts my constituents, disrespects all the elected leaders from Virginia, Maryland, and D.C., and directly harms our airport and the passengers who use it.

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