Legislative Update

NAPO VICTORY: Securing Aircraft Cockpits Against Laser Pointers
Included in the Passage of FAA Reauthorization

The Senate has passed (75-20) a four-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs. Passage of this legislation has been an arduous process, with numerous short-term extensions since the last four-year reauthorization in 2003. During the first half of the 112^th Congress, both chambers passed FAA Reauthorization legislation, sending the chambers’ differences to a conference committee.  A conference report was stalled due to contentious language regarding union proceedings. Finally, on February 1, 2012, Conference Report 112-381 was filed. Shortly thereafter the House agreed on the report (248 – 169) and the Senate followed suit.

Throughout the entirety of the 112^th Congress NAPO worked with members in both chambers and on both ends of the political spectrum to include language making the aiming of the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft or in its flight path a punishable offense. Legislation (H.R. 386) was first introduced by Congressman Dan Lungren (R-CA) in January 2011, and passed out of committees. Then, by a voice vote the House passed H.R. 386 and it was referred to the Senate. Companion legislation (S. 1608) was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) in September. NAPO worked with both of these offices as well as Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) and Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA). Additionally, NAPO worked in conjunction with these offices on S. AMDT. 8, submitted by Senator Whitehouse to the FAA Reauthorization bill that was agreed to 96-1. NAPO’s statements of support were included in the Congressional Record.

The Federal Flight Deck Officers Association is a valued member of NAPO. Together, we have a vested interest in protecting pilots and passengers from the harmful effects of laser pointers. Reports of laser pointers being aimed at aircraft have dramatically increased over the past few years. Laser beams pointed at an aircraft can cause temporary blindness to pilots thus jeopardizing aviation security. The inclusion of this important provision within the FAA Reauthorization Bill will not only help to protect those directly affected by the lasers but also strengthen the enforcement of homeland security. Our investment demonstrates NAPO’s commitment to the safety of our nation, the community, and law enforcement officers.  

Look for additional coverage on the FAA Reauthorization from NAPO when President Obama signs H.R. 658 into public law. If you have any questions in the meantime please do not hesitate to reach out to NAPO’s Director of Government Affairs, Rachel Hedge via email rhedge@napo.org or phone: 703-549-0775.