Construction Lobby Supports Four-Year Aviation Bill
The House is gearing up to vote as early as Sept. 20 on a bill to continue Federal Aviation Administration programs for the next four years, including higher funding for airport construction grants and increased fuel taxes for those who fly small planes. Construction and airport groups are marshalling forces against a possible floor amendment that seeks to delete a provision to let airports increase passenger facility charges (PFCs), another source of infrastructure funds.
Final congressional action on the aviation reauthorization measure isn't likely before Sept. 30, the date on which the airport grants and other FAA programs will expire. Congress is expected to pass a short-term extension of the existing programs and taxes to keep funds flowing until the new bill is wrapped up.