H.R.3270 - Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3270, the Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act of 2025, aims to improve air traffic control training and workforce development. It focuses on enhancing the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program, providing grants to institutions of higher education, and establishing an aviation rulemaking committee to review and modernize training curricula and the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) exam. The bill also includes provisions for air traffic controller qualification incentives, retention bonuses, and mental health improvements.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to increase the number of qualified air traffic controllers by improving training programs and incentivizing individuals to enter and remain in the profession. It will also modernize training methods and equipment, potentially leading to a more efficient and safer air traffic control system. The establishment of a mental health training course for aviation medical professionals could improve the well-being of air traffic controllers.
Potential Benefits
- Improved training programs for air traffic controllers.
- Increased number of qualified air traffic controllers.
- Modernized air traffic control training methods and equipment.
- Enhanced mental health support for air traffic controllers.
- Potential for a safer and more efficient air traffic control system.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending through grants and incentive programs.
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in implementing the new programs.
- The effectiveness of the mental health training course is uncertain.
- The rulemaking committee may not reach consensus on all recommendations.
- The benefits may take several years to materialize.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to improve the safety and efficiency of air travel, which benefits the public. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), which includes air traffic control. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).