Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a legislative agreement with the United States Senate reauthorizing Federal Aviation Administration programs and makes reforms to federal disaster assistance programs. Included in this legislation are two provisions sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) focused on buying American and inspiring careers in aviation for the youth by giving them the resources they need.

“I was proud today to vote and help pass the House Bicameral Agreement on FAA Reauthorization, which includes legislation I sponsored promoting buying American to finance our country’s infrastructure projects,” said Bost. “This legislation also consists of my provision that I co-sponsored which will require the FAA to develop a 'youth in Aviation' task force. The younger generation is at the forefront of America’s future, and giving them the tools and resources they need to succeed in pursuing careers in aviation is vitally important for America’s future.”

The first provision requires the FAA to publish any waivers it issues to Buy America domestic procurement requirements and provides an opportunity for public input. Buy America generally requires the use of domestically-produced Iron and Steel in federally-financed infrastructure projects.  The second is a provision Representative Bost cosponsored that requires the FAA to engage public and private industry stakeholders, including colleges and universities, in developing a “Youth in Aviation” task force. The purpose of this task force is to address a potential aviation industry workforce shortage by inspiring elementary and high school students to consider pursuing careers in aviation. The University of Southern Illinois at Carbondale offers degrees in aviation industry disciplines. 

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