H.R.2431 - Don't Cut FAA Workers Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2431, the "Don't Cut FAA Workers Act of 2025," aims to amend Title 49 of the United States Code to limit mass layoffs of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees within one year following a major aviation accident. The bill requires congressional approval for any mass layoff proposed by the FAA Administrator after such an accident.
The bill defines key terms such as "mass layoff," "major aviation accident," and related concepts to provide clarity and prevent loopholes. It mandates that the Administrator notify Congress of any proposed mass layoff, including the number and type of employees affected.
Congress then has 60 days to enact a joint resolution approving the layoff before it can be carried out. This bill seeks to ensure stability and expertise within the FAA workforce during critical times following aviation accidents.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to provide a buffer against immediate workforce reductions at the FAA following major aviation accidents. This aims to maintain expertise and staffing levels necessary for investigation, safety analysis, and operational continuity.
It introduces a requirement for congressional oversight of FAA layoff decisions in the wake of major accidents. This could lead to delays in implementing cost-saving measures or restructuring efforts deemed necessary by the FAA Administrator.
Ultimately, the bill could result in increased job security for FAA employees and potentially enhanced safety oversight due to the retention of experienced personnel.
Potential Benefits
- Preservation of Expertise: Retains experienced FAA personnel crucial for accident investigation and prevention.
- Enhanced Safety Oversight: Maintains staffing levels necessary for thorough safety analysis and regulatory compliance.
- Job Security: Provides a degree of job security for FAA employees in the aftermath of major aviation accidents.
- Congressional Oversight: Ensures that significant workforce reductions are subject to congressional review and approval.
- Stability in Critical Times: Helps maintain operational stability within the FAA during periods of crisis and heightened scrutiny.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Inefficiency: May prevent the FAA from quickly restructuring or reducing staff in response to changing needs or budget constraints.
- Increased Bureaucracy: Introduces a layer of congressional approval that could delay necessary personnel actions.
- Cost Implications: Could lead to higher personnel costs if the FAA is unable to implement planned layoffs.
- Limited Flexibility: Reduces the FAA Administrator's flexibility in managing the agency's workforce.
- Possible Political Influence: Congressional approval process could be subject to political considerations rather than purely objective assessments of FAA needs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce, including air transportation. The bill's requirement for congressional approval of mass layoffs falls within Congress's legislative authority.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. It primarily addresses the management and oversight of a federal agency's workforce.
By ensuring continued safety and regulation of air travel, the bill indirectly supports the general welfare, as mentioned in the Preamble of the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).