[Congressional Bills 115th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 4 Placed on Calendar Senate (PCS)]

<DOC>





                                                       Calendar No. 401
115th CONGRESS
  2d Session
                                 H. R. 4


_______________________________________________________________________


                   IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

                              May 7, 2018

                     Received; read the first time

                              May 8, 2018

            Read the second time and placed on the calendar

_______________________________________________________________________

                                 AN ACT


 
To reauthorize programs of the Federal Aviation Administration, and for 
                            other purposes.

    Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

    (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2018''.
    (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as 
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Effective date.
                        TITLE I--AUTHORIZATIONS

                  Subtitle A--Funding of FAA Programs

Sec. 101. Airport planning and development and noise compatibility 
                            planning and programs.
Sec. 102. Facilities and equipment.
Sec. 103. FAA operations.
Sec. 104. Adjustment to AIP program funding.
Sec. 105. Funding for aviation programs.
                 Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

Sec. 111. Passenger facility charge modernization.
Sec. 112. Pilot program for passenger facility charge authorizations.
Sec. 113. Use of funds from passenger facility charges to prevent power 
                            outages.
         Subtitle C--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

Sec. 121. Clarification of airport obligation to provide FAA airport 
                            space.
Sec. 122. Mothers' rooms at airports.
Sec. 123. Extension of competitive access reports.
Sec. 124. Grant assurances.
Sec. 125. Government share of project costs.
Sec. 126. Updated veterans' preference.
Sec. 127. Special rule.
Sec. 128. Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau.
Sec. 129. Nondiscrimination.
Sec. 130. State block grant program expansion.
Sec. 131. Midway Island Airport.
Sec. 132. Property conveyance releases.
Sec. 133. Minority and disadvantaged business participation.
Sec. 134. Contract tower program.
Sec. 135. Airport access roads in remote locations.
Sec. 136. Buy America requirements.
Sec. 137. Supplemental discretionary funds.
Sec. 138. Safety equipment.
Sec. 139. Use of airport improvement funds to prevent power outages.
Sec. 140. General written assurances.
Sec. 141. Construction of certain control towers.
Sec. 142. Small airport regulation relief.
        Subtitle D--Airport Noise and Environmental Streamlining

Sec. 151. Recycling plans for airports.
Sec. 152. Pilot program sunset.
Sec. 153. Extension of grant authority for compatible land use planning 
                            and projects by State and local 
                            governments.
Sec. 154. Updating airport noise exposure maps.
Sec. 155. Stage 3 aircraft study.
Sec. 156. Addressing community noise concerns.
Sec. 157. Study on potential health and economic impacts of overflight 
                            noise.
Sec. 158. Environmental mitigation pilot program.
Sec. 159. Aircraft noise exposure.
Sec. 160. Community involvement in FAA NextGen projects located in 
                            metroplexes.
Sec. 161. Critical habitat on or near airport property.
Sec. 162. Clarification of reimbursable allowed costs of FAA memoranda 
                            of agreement.
Sec. 163. Lead emissions.
Sec. 164. Aircraft noise, emission, and fuel burn reduction program.
Sec. 165. Terminal sequencing and spacing.
Sec. 166. Noise and health impact training.
Sec. 167. Airport noise mitigation and safety study.
Sec. 168. Judicial review for proposed alternative environmental review 
                            and approval procedures.
               TITLE II--FAA SAFETY CERTIFICATION REFORM

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 201. Definitions.
Sec. 202. Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee.
Sec. 203. Performance standards for firefighting foams.
               Subtitle B--Aircraft Certification Reform

Sec. 211. Aircraft certification performance objectives and metrics.
Sec. 212. Organization designation authorizations.
Sec. 213. ODA review.
Sec. 214. Type certification resolution process.
Sec. 215. Review of certification process for small general aviation 
                            airplanes.
                  Subtitle C--Flight Standards Reform

Sec. 231. Flight standards performance objectives and metrics.
Sec. 232. FAA task force on flight standards reform.
Sec. 233. Centralized safety guidance database.
Sec. 234. Regulatory Consistency Communications Board.
                      Subtitle D--Safety Workforce

Sec. 241. Safety workforce training strategy.
Sec. 242. Workforce review.
                   Subtitle E--International Aviation

Sec. 251. Promotion of United States aerospace standards, products, and 
                            services abroad.
Sec. 252. Bilateral exchanges of safety oversight responsibilities.
Sec. 253. FAA leadership abroad.
Sec. 254. Registration, certification, and related fees.
                           TITLE III--SAFETY

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 301. FAA technical training.
Sec. 302. Safety critical staffing.
Sec. 303. International efforts regarding tracking of civil aircraft.
Sec. 304. Aircraft data access and retrieval systems.
Sec. 305. Advanced cockpit displays.
Sec. 306. Marking of towers.
Sec. 307. Cabin evacuation.
Sec. 308. ODA staffing and oversight.
Sec. 309. Emergency medical equipment on passenger aircraft.
Sec. 310. HIMS program.
Sec. 311. Acceptance of voluntarily provided safety information.
Sec. 312. Flight attendant duty period limitations and rest 
                            requirements.
Sec. 313. Secondary cockpit barriers.
Sec. 314. Aviation maintenance industry technical workforce.
Sec. 315. Critical airfield markings.
Sec. 316. Regulatory reform.
Sec. 317. FAA and NTSB review of general aviation safety.
Sec. 318. Call to action airline engine safety review.
Sec. 319. Special rule for certain aircraft operations.
Sec. 320. Exit rows.
Sec. 321. Comptroller General report on FAA enforcement policy.
                 Subtitle B--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Sec. 331. Definitions.
Sec. 332. Codification of existing law; additional provisions.
Sec. 333. Unmanned aircraft test ranges.
Sec. 334. Sense of Congress regarding unmanned aircraft safety.
Sec. 335. UAS privacy review.
Sec. 336. Public UAS operations by Tribal governments.
Sec. 337. Evaluation of aircraft registration for small unmanned 
                            aircraft.
Sec. 338. Study on roles of governments relating to low-altitude 
                            operation of small unmanned aircraft.
Sec. 339. Study on financing of unmanned aircraft services.
Sec. 340. Update of FAA comprehensive plan.
Sec. 341. Cooperation related to certain counter-UAS technology.
Sec. 342. Definitions.
Sec. 343. Special rules for model aircraft.
Sec. 344. Recreational UAS.
Sec. 345. Unmanned aircraft systems integration pilot program.
Sec. 346. Enforcement.
Sec. 347. Actively tethered public UAS.
Sec. 348. Report on possible unmanned aircraft systems operation on 
                            spectrum allocated for aviation use.
Sec. 349. U.S. Counter-UAS system review of interagency coordination 
                            processes.
                   TITLE IV--AIR SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

           Subtitle A--Airline Customer Service Improvements

Sec. 401. Reliable air service in American Samoa.
Sec. 402. Cell phone voice communication ban.
Sec. 403. Advisory committee for aviation consumer protection.
Sec. 404. Improved notification of insecticide use.
Sec. 405. Advertisements and disclosure of fees for passenger air 
                            transportation.
Sec. 406. Involuntarily bumping passengers after aircraft boarded.
Sec. 407. Availability of consumer rights information.
Sec. 408. Consumer complaints hotline.
Sec. 409. Widespread disruptions.
Sec. 410. Involuntarily denied boarding compensation.
Sec. 411. Consumer information on actual flight times.
Sec. 412. Advisory committee for transparency in air ambulance 
                            industry.
Sec. 413. Air ambulance complaints.
Sec. 414. Passenger rights.
Sec. 415. Enhanced training of flight attendants.
Sec. 416. Addressing sexual misconduct on flights.
Sec. 417. Overbooking policies of air carriers.
Sec. 418. Training policies regarding racial, ethnic, and religious 
                            nondiscrimination.
Sec. 419. Aviation consumer advocate and complaint resolution 
                            improvement.
            Subtitle B--Aviation Consumers With Disabilities

Sec. 441. Select subcommittee.
Sec. 442. Aviation consumers with disabilities study.
Sec. 443. Feasibility study on in-cabin wheelchair restraint systems.
Sec. 444. Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill of Rights.
Sec. 445. Civil penalties relating to harm to passengers with 
                            disabilities.
Sec. 446. Harmonization of service animal standards.
Sec. 447. Regulations ensuring assistance for individuals with 
                            disabilities in air transportation.
                Subtitle C--Small Community Air Service

Sec. 451. Essential air service authorization.
Sec. 452. Extension of final order establishing mileage adjustment 
                            eligibility.
Sec. 453. Study on essential air service reform.
Sec. 454. Small community air service.
Sec. 455. Air transportation to noneligible places.
Sec. 456. Authorization of certain flights by stage 2 airplanes.
                         TITLE V--MISCELLANEOUS

Sec. 501. Review of FAA strategic cybersecurity plan.
Sec. 502. Consolidation and realignment of FAA services and facilities.
Sec. 503. FAA review and reform.
Sec. 504. Aviation fuel.
Sec. 505. Right to privacy when using air traffic control system.
Sec. 506. Air shows.
Sec. 507. Part 91 review, reform, and streamlining.
Sec. 508. Aircraft registration.
Sec. 509. Air transportation of lithium cells and batteries.
Sec. 510. Remote tower pilot program for rural and small communities.
Sec. 511. Ensuring FAA readiness to provide seamless oceanic 
                            operations.
Sec. 512. Sense of Congress regarding women in aviation.
Sec. 513. Obstruction evaluation aeronautical studies.
Sec. 514. Aircraft leasing.
Sec. 515. Report on obsolete test equipment.
Sec. 516. Pilots sharing flight expenses with passengers.
Sec. 517. Aviation rulemaking committee for part 135 pilot rest and 
                            duty rules.
Sec. 518. Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.
Sec. 519. Terminal Aerodrome Forecast.
Sec. 520. Federal Aviation Administration employees stationed on Guam.
Sec. 521. Technical corrections.
Sec. 522. Application of veterans' preference to Federal Aviation 
                            Administration personnel management system.
Sec. 523. Public aircraft eligible for logging flight times.
Sec. 524. Federal Aviation Administration workforce review.
Sec. 525. State taxation.
Sec. 526. Aviation and aerospace workforce of the future.
Sec. 527. Future aviation and aerospace workforce study.
Sec. 528. FAA leadership on civil supersonic aircraft.
Sec. 529. Oklahoma registry office.
Sec. 530. Foreign air transportation under United States-European Union 
                            Air Transport Agreement.
Sec. 531. Training on human trafficking for certain staff.
Sec. 532. Part 107 implementation improvements.
Sec. 533. Part 107 transparency and technology improvements.
Sec. 534. Prohibitions against smoking on passenger flights.
Sec. 535. Consumer protection requirements relating to large ticket 
                            agents.
Sec. 536. FAA data transparency.
Sec. 537. Agency procurement reporting requirements.
Sec. 538. Zero-emission vehicles and technology.
Sec. 539. Employee Assault Prevention and Response Plans.
Sec. 540. Study on training of customer-facing air carrier employees.
Sec. 541. Minimum dimensions for passenger seats.
Sec. 542. Study of ground transportation options.
Sec. 543. FAA employees in Guam.
Sec. 544. Clarification of requirements for living history flights.
Sec. 545. FAA organizational reform.
Sec. 546. Intra-agency coordination.
Sec. 547. FAA Civil Aviation Registry upgrade.
Sec. 548. Regulatory streamlining.
Sec. 549. Administrative Services Franchise Fund.
Sec. 550. Report on air traffic control modernization.
Sec. 551. Automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast.
Sec. 552. Youth access to American jobs in aviation task force.
Sec. 553. Airport investment partnership program.
Sec. 554. Review and reform of FAA performance management system.
Sec. 555. Contract weather observers.
Sec. 556. Regions and centers.
Sec. 557. Study on airport revenue diversion.
Sec. 558. Geosynthetic materials.
Sec. 559. Rule for animals.
Sec. 560. Enhanced air traffic services.
Sec. 561. NextGen delivery study.
Sec. 562. Limited regulation of non-federally sponsored property.
Sec. 563. National Airmail Museum.
Sec. 564. Review of approval process for use of large air tankers and 
                            very large air tankers for wildland 
                            firefighting.
Sec. 565. Report on baggage reporting requirements.
Sec. 566. Supporting women's involvement in the aviation field.
Sec. 567. GAO study on the effect of granting an exclusive right of 
                            aeronautical services to an airport 
                            sponsor.
Sec. 568. Evaluation of airport master plans.
Sec. 569. Study regarding day-night average sound levels.
Sec. 570. Report on status of agreement between FAA and Little Rock 
                            Port Authority.
Sec. 571. Study on allergic reactions.
Sec. 572. Access of air carriers to information about applicants to be 
                            pilots from national driver register.
Sec. 573. Prohibition regarding weapons.
Sec. 574. Helicopter fuel system safety.
Sec. 575. Safety equipment storage facilities.
Sec. 576. Report on airline and passenger safety.
Sec. 577. Report on aircraft diversions from lax to hawthorne municipal 
                            airport.
Sec. 578. Former military airports.
Sec. 579. Use of State highway specifications.
Sec. 580. Sense of Congress.
Sec. 581. Oxygen mask design study.
Sec. 582. Standards for pilots.
Sec. 583. Study regarding technology usage at airports.
Sec. 584. Applications for designation.
Sec. 585. Applicability of medical certification standards to operators 
                            of air balloons.
Sec. 586. Cost-effectiveness analysis of equipment rental.
Sec. 587. Report.
Sec. 588. Study on infrastructure needs of fast-growing airports.
Sec. 589. Aircraft noise research and mitigation strategy.
Sec. 590. Alternative airplane noise metric evaluation deadline.
Sec. 591. Performance-based standards.
Sec. 592. Report to Congress.
Sec. 593. Report and recommendations on certain aviation safety risks.
Sec. 594. Report to Congress.
Sec. 595. Review of FAA's Aviation Safety Information Analysis and 
                            Sharing System.
Sec. 596. Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence standards plan.
Sec. 597. Sense of Congress on hiring veterans.
Sec. 598. GAO study.
Sec. 599. Prompt payments.
Sec. 599A. GAO study on aviation workforce.
Sec. 599B. Metropolitan planning organizations.
Sec. 599C. Study.
Sec. 599D. Spaceports.
Sec. 599E. Mandatory use of the New York North Shore Helicopter Route.
Sec. 599F. Study on diversity of cybersecurity workforce of FAA.
Sec. 599G. Federal authority.
Sec. 599H. National hiring standard of care.
                 TITLE VI--DISASTER RECOVERY REFORM ACT

Sec. 601. Applicability.
Sec. 602. State defined.
Sec. 603. Wildfire prevention.
Sec. 604. Additional activities.
Sec. 605. Eligibility for code implementation and enforcement.
Sec. 606. Program improvements.
Sec. 607. Prioritization of facilities.
Sec. 608. Guidance on evacuation routes.
Sec. 609. Duplication of benefits.
Sec. 610. State administration of assistance for direct temporary 
                            housing and permanent housing construction.
Sec. 611. Assistance to individuals and households.
Sec. 612. Multifamily lease and repair assistance.
Sec. 613. Private nonprofit facility.
Sec. 614. Management costs.
Sec. 615. Flexibility.
Sec. 616. Additional disaster assistance.
Sec. 617. National veterinary emergency teams.
Sec. 618. Right of arbitration.
Sec. 619. Unified Federal environmental and historic preservation 
                            review.
Sec. 620. Closeout incentives.
Sec. 621. Performance of services.
Sec. 622. Study to streamline and consolidate information collection.
Sec. 623. Agency accountability.
Sec. 624. Audit of contracts.
Sec. 625. Inspector general audit of FEMA contracts for tarps and 
                            plastic sheeting.
Sec. 626. Relief organizations.
Sec. 627. Guidance on inundated and submerged roads.
Sec. 628. Authorities.
Sec. 629. Recoupment of certain assistance prohibited.
Sec. 630.  Statute of limitations.
Sec. 631. Technical assistance and recommendations.
Sec. 632.  Guidance on hazard mitigation assistance.
Sec. 633.  Local impact.
Sec. 634. Additional hazard mitigation activities.
Sec. 635. National public infrastructure predisaster hazard mitigation.
Sec. 636. Additional mitigation activities.
Sec. 637. Eligibility for code implementation and enforcement.
Sec. 638. GAO report on long-term recovery efforts.
Sec. 639. Guidance and training by FEMA on coordination of emergency 
                            response plans.
Sec. 640. Reimbursement.
Sec. 641. Flood insurance.
Sec. 642. Certain recoupment prohibited.
                       TITLE VII--FLIGHT R&D ACT

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

Sec. 701. Short title.
Sec. 702. Definitions.
Sec. 703. Authorization of appropriations.
         Subtitle B--FAA Research and Development Organization

Sec. 711. Associate Administrator for Research and Development.
Sec. 712. Research advisory committee.
                 Subtitle C--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Sec. 721. Unmanned aircraft systems research and development roadmap.
Sec. 722. Probabilistic metrics for exemptions.
Sec. 723. Probabilistic assessment of risks.
Sec. 724. Unmanned aerial vehicle-manned aircraft collision research.
Sec. 725. Special rule for research and development.
Sec. 726. Beyond line-of-sight research and development.
                       Subtitle D--Cybersecurity

Sec. 731. Cyber Testbed.
Sec. 732. Cabin communications, entertainment, and information 
                            technology systems cybersecurity 
                            vulnerabilities.
Sec. 733. Cybersecurity threat modeling.
Sec. 734. National Institute of Standards and Technology cybersecurity 
                            standards.
Sec. 735. Cybersecurity research coordination.
Sec. 736. Cybersecurity research and development program.
          Subtitle E--FAA Research and Development Activities

Sec. 741. Research plan for the certification of new technologies into 
                            the national airspace system.
Sec. 742. Aviation fuel research, development, and usage.
Sec. 743. Air traffic surveillance over oceans and other remote 
                            locations.
Sec. 744. Single-piloted commercial cargo aircraft.
Sec. 745. Electromagnetic spectrum research and development.
                TITLE VIII--AVIATION REVENUE PROVISIONS

Sec. 801. Expenditure authority from Airport and Airway Trust Fund.
Sec. 802. Extension of taxes funding Airport and Airway Trust Fund.
TITLE IX--PREPAREDNESS AND RISK MANAGEMENT FOR EXTREME WEATHER PATTERNS 
                 ASSURING RESILIENCE AND EFFECTIVENESS

Sec. 901. Short title.
Sec. 902. Interagency Council on Extreme Weather Resilience, 
                            Preparedness, and Risk Identification and 
                            Management.
Sec. 903. Agency planning for extreme weather-related risks.
Sec. 904. Website.
Sec. 905. Providing Adequate Resources and Support.
Sec. 906. Inventory.
Sec. 907. Meetings.
Sec. 908. Progress updates.
Sec. 909. Definitions.
Sec. 910. Requirement to include agency extreme weather plan in agency 
                            performance plan.
Sec. 911. Sunset and repeal.

SEC. 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.

    Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Act and the amendments 
made by this Act shall take effect on the date of enactment of this 
Act.

                        TITLE I--AUTHORIZATIONS

                  Subtitle A--Funding of FAA Programs

SEC. 101. AIRPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT AND NOISE COMPATIBILITY 
              PLANNING AND PROGRAMS.

    (a) Authorization.--Section 48103(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking ``section 47504(c)'' and all that follows 
through the period at the end and inserting the following: ``section 
47504(c)--
            ``(1) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2018;
            ``(2) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2019;
            ``(3) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
            ``(4) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2021;
            ``(5) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; and
            ``(6) $3,350,000,000 for fiscal year 2023.''.
    (b) Obligation Authority.--Section 47104(c) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by 
striking ``2018,'' and inserting ``2023,''.

SEC. 102. FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.

    (a) Authorization of Appropriations From Airport and Airway Trust 
Fund.--Section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking paragraphs (1) through (5) and inserting the following:
            ``(1) $3,330,000,000 for fiscal year 2018.
            ``(2) $3,398,000,000 for fiscal year 2019.
            ``(3) $3,469,000,000 for fiscal year 2020.
            ``(4) $3,547,000,000 for fiscal year 2021.
            ``(5) $3,624,000,000 for fiscal year 2022.
            ``(6) $3,701,000,000 for fiscal year 2023.''.
    (b) Authorized Expenditures.--Section 48101(c) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--
            (1) in the subsection heading by striking ``Automated 
        Surface Observation System/Automated Weather Observing System 
        Upgrade'' and inserting ``Authorized Expenditures''; and
            (2) by striking ``may be used for the implementation'' and 
        all that follows through the period at the end and inserting 
        the following: ``may be used for the following:
            ``(1) The implementation and use of upgrades to the current 
        automated surface observation system/automated weather 
        observing system, if the upgrade is successfully demonstrated.
            ``(2) The acquisition and construction of remote air 
        traffic control towers (as defined in section 510 of the FAA 
        Reauthorization Act of 2018).
            ``(3) The remediation and elimination of identified 
        cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the air traffic control 
        system.
            ``(4) The construction of facilities dedicated to improving 
        the cybersecurity of the National Airspace System.
            ``(5) Systems associated with the Data Communications 
        program.
            ``(6) The infrastructure, sustainment, and the elimination 
        of the deferred maintenance backlog of air navigation 
        facilities and other facilities for which the Federal Aviation 
        Administration is responsible.
            ``(7) The modernization and digitization of the Civil 
        Aviation Registry.
            ``(8) The construction of necessary Priority 1 National 
        Airspace System facilities.
            ``(9) Cost-beneficial construction, rehabilitation, or 
        retrofitting programs designed to reduce Federal Aviation 
        Administration facility operating costs.''.

SEC. 103. FAA OPERATIONS.

    (a) In General.--Section 106(k)(1) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by striking subparagraphs (A) through (F) and inserting the 
following:
                    ``(A) $10,247,000,000 for fiscal year 2018;
                    ``(B) $10,486,000,000 for fiscal year 2019;
                    ``(C) $10,732,000,000 for fiscal year 2020;
                    ``(D) $11,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2021;
                    ``(E) $11,269,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; and
                    ``(F) $11,537,000,000 for fiscal year 2023.''.
    (b) Authorized Expenditures.--Section 106(k)(2) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
                    ``(D) Not more than the following amounts for 
                commercial space transportation activities:
                            ``(i) $22,587,000 for fiscal year 2018.
                            ``(ii) $33,038,000 for fiscal year 2019.
                            ``(iii) $43,500,000 for fiscal year 2020.
                            ``(iv) $54,970,000 for fiscal year 2021.
                            ``(v) $64,449,000 for fiscal year 2022.
                            ``(vi) $75,938,000 for fiscal year 2023.''.
    (c) Authority to Transfer Funds.--Section 106(k)(3) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``fiscal years 2012 through 
2018,'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2018 through 2023,''.

SEC. 104. ADJUSTMENT TO AIP PROGRAM FUNDING.

    Section 48112 of title 49, United States Code, and the item 
relating to such section in the analysis for chapter 481 of such title, 
are repealed.

SEC. 105. FUNDING FOR AVIATION PROGRAMS.

    Section 48114(a)(1)(A)(ii) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by striking ``in fiscal year 2014 and each fiscal year 
thereafter'' and inserting ``in fiscal years 2014 through 2018''.

                 Subtitle B--Passenger Facility Charges

SEC. 111. PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGE MODERNIZATION.

    Section 40117(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``or $3'' and inserting 
        ``$3, $4, or $4.50'';
            (2) by repealing paragraph (4);
            (3) in paragraph (6)--
                    (A) by striking ``specified in paragraphs (1) and 
                (4)'' and inserting ``specified in paragraph (1)''; and
                    (B) by striking ``imposed under paragraph (1) or 
                (4)'' and inserting ``imposed under paragraph (1)''; 
                and
            (4) in paragraph (7)(A)--
                    (A) by striking ``specified in paragraphs (1), (4), 
                and (6)'' and inserting ``specified in paragraphs (1) 
                and (6)''; and
                    (B) by striking ``imposed under paragraph (1) or 
                (4)'' and inserting ``imposed under paragraph (1)''.

SEC. 112. PILOT PROGRAM FOR PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGE AUTHORIZATIONS.

    Section 40117(l) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in the subsection heading by striking  ``at Nonhub 
        Airports''; and
            (2) in paragraph (1) by striking ``nonhub''.

SEC. 113. USE OF FUNDS FROM PASSENGER FACILITY CHARGES TO PREVENT POWER 
              OUTAGES.

    Section 40117(a)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
                    ``(H) An on-airport project to purchase and install 
                generators to prevent power outages in passenger areas 
                of the airport, to separate an airport's redundant 
                power supply and its main power supply, or for any 
                other on-airport project to prevent power outages or 
                damage to the airport's power supply.''.

         Subtitle C--Airport Improvement Program Modifications

SEC. 121. CLARIFICATION OF AIRPORT OBLIGATION TO PROVIDE FAA AIRPORT 
              SPACE.

    Section 44502 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(f) Airport Space.--
            ``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may not 
        require an airport owner, operator, or sponsor (as defined in 
        section 47102) to provide building construction, maintenance, 
        utilities, administrative support, or space on airport property 
        to the Federal Aviation Administration without adequate 
        compensation.
            ``(2) Exceptions.--Paragraph (1) does not apply in any case 
        in which an airport owner, operator, or sponsor--
                    ``(A) provides land or buildings without 
                compensation to the Federal Aviation Administration for 
                facilities used to carry out activities related to air 
                traffic control or navigation pursuant to a grant 
                assurance; or
                    ``(B) provides goods or services to the Federal 
                Aviation Administration without compensation or at 
                below-market rates pursuant to a negotiated agreement 
                between the owner, operator, or sponsor and the 
                Administrator.''.

SEC. 122. MOTHERS' ROOMS AT AIRPORTS.

    (a) Lactation Area Defined.--Section 47102 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(29) `lactation area' means a room or other location in a 
        commercial service airport that--
                    ``(A) provides a location for members of the public 
                to express breast milk that is shielded from view and 
                free from intrusion from the public;
                    ``(B) has a door that can be locked;
                    ``(C) includes a place to sit, a table or other 
                flat surface, a sink or sanitizing equipment, and an 
                electrical outlet;
                    ``(D) is readily accessible to and usable by 
                individuals with disabilities, including individuals 
                who use wheelchairs; and
                    ``(E) is not located in a restroom.''.
    (b) Project Grant Written Assurances for Large and Medium Hub 
Airports.--
            (1) In general.--Section 47107(a) of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended--
                    (A) in paragraph (20) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                    (B) in paragraph (21) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting ``; and''; and
                    (C) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(22) with respect to a medium or large hub airport, the 
        airport owner or operator will maintain a lactation area in 
        each passenger terminal building of the airport in the sterile 
        area (as defined in section 1540.5 of title 49, Code of Federal 
        Regulations) of the building and will maintain a baby changing 
        table in one men's and one women's restroom in each passenger 
        terminal building of the airport.''.
            (2) Applicability.--
                    (A) In general.--The amendment made by paragraph 
                (1) shall apply to a project grant application 
                submitted for a fiscal year beginning on or after the 
                date that is 2 years after the date of enactment of 
                this Act.
                    (B) Special rule.--The requirement in the amendment 
                made by paragraph (1) that a lactation area be located 
                in the sterile area of a passenger terminal building 
                shall not apply with respect to a project grant 
                application for a period of time, determined by the 
                Secretary of Transportation, if the Secretary 
                determines that construction or maintenance activities 
                make it impracticable or unsafe for the lactation area 
                to be located in the sterile area of the building.
    (c) Terminal Development Costs.--Section 47119(a) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(3) Lactation areas.--In addition to the projects 
        described in paragraph (1), the Secretary may approve a project 
        for terminal development for the construction or installation 
        of a lactation area at a commercial service airport.''.
    (d) Pre-Existing Facilities.--On application by an airport sponsor, 
the Secretary may determine that a lactation area in existence on the 
date of enactment of this Act complies with the requirement of section 
47107(a)(22) of title 49, United States Code, as added by this section, 
notwithstanding the absence of one of the facilities or characteristics 
referred to in the definition of the term ``lactation area'' in section 
47102 of such title, as added by this section.

SEC. 123. EXTENSION OF COMPETITIVE ACCESS REPORTS.

    Section 47107(r)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``2018'' and inserting ``2023''.

SEC. 124. GRANT ASSURANCES.

    (a) Construction of Recreational Aircraft.--Section 47107 of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(u) Construction of Recreational Aircraft.--
            ``(1) In general.--The construction of a covered aircraft 
        shall be treated as an aeronautical activity for purposes of--
                    ``(A) determining an airport's compliance with a 
                grant assurance made under this section or any other 
                provision of law; and
                    ``(B) the receipt of Federal financial assistance 
                for airport development.
            ``(2) Covered aircraft defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term `covered aircraft' means an aircraft--
                    ``(A) used or intended to be used exclusively for 
                recreational purposes; and
                    ``(B) constructed or under construction by a 
                private individual at a general aviation airport.''.
    (b) Community Use of Airport Land.--Section 47107 of title 49, 
United States Code, as amended by this section, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:
    ``(v) Community Use of Airport Land.--
            ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsection (a)(13), and 
        subject to paragraph (2), the sponsor of a public-use airport 
        shall not be considered to be in violation of this subtitle, or 
        to be found in violation of a grant assurance made under this 
        section, or under any other provision of law, as a condition 
        for the receipt of Federal financial assistance for airport 
        development, solely because the sponsor has entered into an 
        agreement, including a revised agreement, with a local 
        government providing for the use of airport property for an 
        interim compatible recreational purpose at below fair market 
        value.
            ``(2) Restrictions.--This subsection shall apply only--
                    ``(A) to an agreement regarding airport property 
                that was initially entered into before the publication 
                of the Federal Aviation Administration's Policy and 
                Procedures Concerning the Use of Airport Revenue, dated 
                February 16, 1999;
                    ``(B) if the agreement between the sponsor and the 
                local government is subordinate to any existing or 
                future agreements between the sponsor and the 
                Secretary, including agreements related to a grant 
                assurance under this section;
                    ``(C) to airport property that was acquired under a 
                Federal airport development grant program;
                    ``(D) if the airport sponsor has provided a written 
                statement to the Administrator that the property made 
                available for a recreational purpose will not be needed 
                for any aeronautical purpose during the next 10 years;
                    ``(E) if the agreement includes a term of not more 
                than 2 years to prepare the airport property for the 
                interim compatible recreational purpose and not more 
                than 10 years of use for that purpose;
                    ``(F) if the recreational purpose will not impact 
                the aeronautical use of the airport;
                    ``(G) if the airport sponsor provides a 
                certification that the sponsor is not responsible for 
                preparation, start-up, operations, maintenance, or any 
                other costs associated with the recreational purpose; 
                and
                    ``(H) if the recreational purpose is consistent 
                with Federal land use compatibility criteria under 
                section 47502.
            ``(3) Statutory construction.--Nothing in this subsection 
        may be construed as permitting a diversion of airport revenue 
        for the capital or operating costs associated with the 
        community use of airport land.''.

SEC. 125. GOVERNMENT SHARE OF PROJECT COSTS.

    Section 47109(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``primary airport having 
        at least .25 percent of the total number of passenger boardings 
        each year at all commercial service airports;'' and inserting 
        ``medium or large hub airport;''; and
            (2) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting the following:
            ``(5) 95 percent for a project that--
                    ``(A) the Administrator determines is a successive 
                phase of a multi-phase construction project for which 
                the sponsor received a grant in fiscal year 2011; and
                    ``(B) for which the United States Government's 
                share of allowable project costs could otherwise be 90 
                percent under paragraph (2) or (3).''.

SEC. 126. UPDATED VETERANS' PREFERENCE.

    Section 47112(c)(1)(C) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
            (1) by striking ``or Operation New Dawn for more'' and 
        inserting ``Operation New Dawn, Operation Inherent Resolve, 
        Operation Freedom's Sentinel, or any successor contingency 
        operation to such operations for more''; and
            (2) by striking ``or Operation New Dawn (whichever is 
        later)'' and inserting ``Operation New Dawn, Operation Inherent 
        Resolve, Operation Freedom's Sentinel, or any successor 
        contingency operation to such operations (whichever is 
        later)''.

SEC. 127. SPECIAL RULE.

    Section 47114(d)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
                    ``(C) During fiscal years 2018 through 2020--
                            ``(i) an airport that accrued apportionment 
                        funds under subparagraph (A) in fiscal year 
                        2013 that is listed as having an unclassified 
                        status under the most recent national plan of 
                        integrated airport systems shall continue to 
                        accrue apportionment funds under subparagraph 
                        (A) at the same amount the airport accrued 
                        apportionment funds in fiscal year 2013, 
                        subject to the conditions of this paragraph;
                            ``(ii) notwithstanding the period of 
                        availability as described in section 47117(b), 
                        an amount apportioned to an airport under 
                        clause (i) shall be available to the airport 
                        only during the fiscal year in which the amount 
                        is apportioned; and
                            ``(iii) notwithstanding the waiver 
                        permitted under section 47117(c)(2), an airport 
                        receiving apportionment funds under clause (i) 
                        may not waive its claim to any part of the 
                        apportioned funds in order to make the funds 
                        available for a grant for another public-use 
                        airport.
                    ``(D) An airport that re-establishes its classified 
                status shall be eligible to accrue apportionment funds 
                pursuant to subparagraph (A) so long as such airport 
                retains its classified status.''.

SEC. 128. MARSHALL ISLANDS, MICRONESIA, AND PALAU.

    Section 47115 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking subsection (i);
            (2) by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (i); and
            (3) in subsection (i) (as so redesignated) by striking 
        ``fiscal years 2012 through 2018'' and inserting ``fiscal years 
        2018 through 2023''.

SEC. 129. NONDISCRIMINATION.

    Section 47123 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking ``The Secretary of Transportation'' and 
        inserting the following:
    ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation''; and
            (2) by adding at the end the following:
    ``(b) Indian Employment.--
            ``(1) Tribal sponsor preference.--Consistent with section 
        703(i) of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000e-2(i)), 
        nothing in this section shall preclude the preferential 
        employment of Indians living on or near a reservation on a 
        project or contract at--
                    ``(A) an airport sponsored by an Indian tribal 
                government; or
                    ``(B) an airport located on an Indian reservation.
            ``(2) State preference.--A State may implement a preference 
        for employment of Indians on a project carried out under this 
        subchapter near an Indian reservation.
            ``(3) Implementation.--The Secretary shall cooperate with 
        Indian tribal governments and the States to implement this 
        subsection.
            ``(4) Indian tribal government defined.--In this section, 
        the term `Indian tribal government' has the same meaning given 
        that term in section 102 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
        Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5122).''.

SEC. 130. STATE BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM EXPANSION.

    Section 47128(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``not more than 9 qualified States for fiscal years 2000 and 
2001 and 10 qualified States for each fiscal year thereafter'' and 
inserting ``not more than 20 qualified States for each fiscal year''.

SEC. 131. MIDWAY ISLAND AIRPORT.

    Section 186(d) of the Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
Reauthorization Act (117 Stat. 2518) is amended in the first sentence 
by striking ``fiscal years 2012 through 2018'' and inserting ``fiscal 
years 2018 through 2023''.

SEC. 132. PROPERTY CONVEYANCE RELEASES.

    Section 817(a) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 47125 note) is amended--
            (1) by striking ``or section 23'' and inserting ``, section 
        23''; and
            (2) by inserting ``, or section 47125 of title 49, United 
        States Code'' before the period at the end.

SEC. 133. MINORITY AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS PARTICIPATION.

    Congress finds the following:
            (1) While significant progress has occurred due to the 
        establishment of the airport disadvantaged business enterprise 
        program (49 U.S.C. 47107(e) and 47113), discrimination and 
        related barriers continue to pose significant obstacles for 
        minority- and women-owned businesses seeking to do business in 
        airport-related markets across the Nation. These continuing 
        barriers merit the continuation of the airport disadvantaged 
        business enterprise program.
            (2) Congress has received and reviewed testimony and 
        documentation of race and gender discrimination from numerous 
        sources, including congressional hearings and roundtables, 
        scientific reports, reports issued by public and private 
        agencies, news stories, reports of discrimination by 
        organizations and individuals, and discrimination lawsuits. 
        This testimony and documentation shows that race- and gender-
        neutral efforts alone are insufficient to address the problem.
            (3) This testimony and documentation demonstrates that 
        discrimination across the Nation poses a barrier to full and 
        fair participation in airport-related businesses of women 
        business owners and minority business owners in the racial 
        groups detailed in parts 23 and 26 of title 49, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, and has impacted firm development and many aspects 
        of airport-related business in the public and private markets.
            (4) This testimony and documentation provides a strong 
        basis that there is a compelling need for the continuation of 
        the airport disadvantaged business enterprise program and the 
        airport concessions disadvantaged business enterprise program 
        to address race and gender discrimination in airport-related 
        business.

SEC. 134. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM.

    (a) Air Traffic Control Contract Program.--
            (1) Special rule.--Section 47124(b)(1)(B) of title 49, 
        United States Code, is amended by striking ``exceeds the 
        benefit for a period of 18 months after such determination is 
        made'' and inserting the following: ``exceeds the benefit--
                            ``(i) for the 1-year period after such 
                        determination is made; or
                            ``(ii) if an appeal of such determination 
                        is requested, for the 1-year period described 
                        in subsection (d)(4)(D)''.
            (2) Exemption.--Section 47124(b)(3)(D) of title 49, United 
        States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 
        ``Airports with air service under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, and more than 25,000 passenger 
        enplanements in calendar year 2014 shall be exempt from any 
        cost-share requirement under this subparagraph.''.
            (3) Construction of air traffic control towers.--
                    (A) Grants.--Section 47124(b)(4)(A) of title 49, 
                United States Code, is amended in each of clauses 
                (i)(III) and (ii)(III) by inserting ``, including 
                remote air traffic control tower equipment certified by 
                the Federal Aviation Administration'' after ``1996''.
                    (B) Eligibility.--Section 47124(b)(4)(B)(i)(I) of 
                title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
                ``pilot''.
                    (C) Limitation on federal share.--Section 
                47124(b)(4) of title 49, United States Code, is amended 
                by striking subparagraph (C).
            (4) Benefit-to-cost calculation for program applicants.--
        Section 47124(b)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended 
        by adding at the end the following:
            ``(G) Benefit-to-cost calculation.--Not later than 90 days 
        after receiving an application to the Contract Tower Program, 
        the Secretary shall calculate a benefit-to-cost ratio (as 
        described in subsection (d)) for the applicable air traffic 
        control tower for purposes of selecting towers for 
        participation in the Contract Tower Program.''.
    (b) Criteria To Evaluate Participants.--Section 47124 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(d) Criteria To Evaluate Participants.--
            ``(1) Timing of evaluations.--
                    ``(A) Towers participating in cost-share program.--
                In the case of an air traffic control tower that is 
                operated under the program established under subsection 
                (b)(3), the Secretary shall annually calculate a 
                benefit-to-cost ratio with respect to the tower.
                    ``(B) Towers participating in contract tower 
                program.--In the case of an air traffic control tower 
                that is operated under the program established under 
                subsection (a) and continued under subsection (b)(1), 
                the Secretary shall not calculate a benefit-to-cost 
                ratio after the date of enactment of this subsection 
                with respect to the tower unless the Secretary 
                determines that the annual aircraft traffic at the 
                airport where the tower is located has decreased--
                            ``(i) by more than 25 percent from the 
                        previous year; or
                            ``(ii) by more than 55 percent cumulatively 
                        in the preceding 3-year period.
            ``(2) Costs to be considered.--In establishing a benefit-
        to-cost ratio under this section with respect to an air traffic 
        control tower, the Secretary shall consider only the following 
        costs:
                    ``(A) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual 
                cost of wages and benefits of personnel working at the 
                tower.
                    ``(B) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual 
                telecommunications costs directly associated with the 
                tower.
                    ``(C) The Federal Aviation Administration's costs 
                of purchasing and installing any air traffic control 
                equipment that would not have been purchased or 
                installed except as a result of the operation of the 
                tower.
                    ``(D) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual 
                travel costs associated with maintaining air traffic 
                control equipment that is owned by the Administration 
                and would not be maintained except as a result of the 
                operation of the tower.
                    ``(E) Other actual costs of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration directly associated with the tower that 
                would not be incurred except as a result of the 
                operation of the tower (excluding costs for non-
                contract tower related personnel and equipment, even if 
                the personnel or equipment are located in the contract 
                tower building).
            ``(3) Other criteria to be considered.--In establishing a 
        benefit-to-cost ratio under this section with respect to an air 
        traffic control tower, the Secretary shall add a 10 percentage 
        point margin of error to the benefit-to-cost ratio 
        determination to acknowledge and account for the direct and 
        indirect economic and other benefits that are not included in 
        the criteria the Secretary used in calculating that ratio.
            ``(4) Review of cost-benefit determinations.--In issuing a 
        benefit-to-cost ratio determination under this section with 
        respect to an air traffic control tower located at an airport, 
        the Secretary shall implement the following procedures:
                    ``(A) The Secretary shall provide the airport (or 
                the State or local government having jurisdiction over 
                the airport) at least 90 days following the date of 
                receipt of the determination to submit to the Secretary 
                a request for an appeal of the determination, together 
                with updated or additional data in support of the 
                appeal.
                    ``(B) Upon receipt of a request for an appeal 
                submitted pursuant to subparagraph (A), the Secretary 
                shall--
                            ``(i) transmit to the Administrator of the 
                        Federal Aviation Administration any updated or 
                        additional data submitted in support of the 
                        appeal; and
                            ``(ii) provide the Administrator not more 
                        than 90 days to review the data and provide a 
                        response to the Secretary based on the review.
                    ``(C) After receiving a response from the 
                Administrator pursuant to subparagraph (B), the 
                Secretary shall--
                            ``(i) provide the airport, State, or local 
                        government that requested the appeal at least 
                        30 days to review the response; and
                            ``(ii) withhold from taking further action 
                        in connection with the appeal during that 30-
                        day period.
                    ``(D) If, after completion of the appeal procedures 
                with respect to the determination, the Secretary 
                requires the tower to transition into the program 
                established under subsection (b)(3), the Secretary 
                shall not require a cost-share payment from the 
                airport, State, or local government for 1 year 
                following the last day of the 30-day period described 
                in subparagraph (C).''.

SEC. 135. AIRPORT ACCESS ROADS IN REMOTE LOCATIONS.

    Notwithstanding section 47102 of title 49, United States Code, for 
fiscal years 2018 through 2021, the definition of the term ``terminal 
development'' under that section includes the development of an airport 
access road that--
            (1) is located in a noncontiguous State;
            (2) is not more than 3 miles in length;
            (3) connects to the nearest public roadways of not more 
        than the 2 closest census designated places; and
            (4) is constructed for the purpose of connecting the census 
        designated places with a planned or newly constructed airport.

SEC. 136. BUY AMERICA REQUIREMENTS.

    (a) Notice of Waivers.--If the Secretary of Transportation 
determines that it is necessary to waive the application of section 
50101(a) of title 49, United States Code, based on a finding under 
section 50101(b) of that title, the Secretary, at least 10 days before 
the date on which the waiver takes effect, shall--
            (1) make publicly available, in an easily identifiable 
        location on the website of the Department of Transportation, a 
        detailed written justification of the waiver determination; and
            (2) provide an informal public notice and comment 
        opportunity on the waiver determination.
    (b) Annual Report.--For each fiscal year, the Secretary shall 
submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on waivers issued under section 
50101 of title 49, United States Code, during the fiscal year.

SEC. 137. SUPPLEMENTAL DISCRETIONARY FUNDS.

    Section 47115 of title 49, United States Code, is further amended 
by adding at the end the following:
    ``(j) Supplemental Discretionary Funds.--
            ``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a program 
        to provide grants, subject to the conditions of this 
        subsection, for any purpose for which amounts are made 
        available under section 48103 that the Secretary considers most 
        appropriate to carry out this subchapter.
            ``(2) Treatment of grants.--
                    ``(A) In general.--A grant made under this 
                subsection shall be treated as having been made 
                pursuant to the Secretary's authority under section 
                47104(a) and from the Secretary's discretionary fund 
                under subsection (a) of this section.
                    ``(B) Exception.--Except as otherwise provided in 
                this subsection, grants made under this subsection 
                shall not be subject to subsection (c), section 
                47117(e), or any other apportionment formula, special 
                apportionment category, or minimum percentage set forth 
                in this chapter.
            ``(3) Eligibility.--The Secretary may provide grants under 
        this subsection only for projects--
                    ``(A) at a nonprimary airport that--
                            ``(i) is classified as a regional, local, 
                        or basic airport, as determined using the 
                        Department of Transportation's most recently 
                        published classification; and
                            ``(ii) is not located within a Metropolitan 
                        Statistical Area (as defined by the Office of 
                        Management and Budget);
                    ``(B) at a nonhub, small hub, or medium hub 
                airport; or
                    ``(C) at an airport receiving an exemption under 
                section 47134.
            ``(4) Federal share.--
                    ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in 
                subparagraph (B), the Government's share of allowable 
                project costs under this subsection is 80 percent.
                    ``(B) Submission.--In applying for a grant under 
                this subsection, an airport sponsor that proposes a 
                lower Government share of allowable project costs than 
                the share specified in subparagraph (A) shall receive 
                priority commensurate with the reduction in such share. 
                Projects shall receive equal priority consideration if 
                such project--
                            ``(i) has a proposed Government cost share 
                        of 50 percent or less; or
                            ``(ii) is at an airport receiving an 
                        exemption under section 47134.
            ``(5) Authorization.--
                    ``(A) In general.--There is authorized to be 
                appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this 
                subsection the following amounts:
                            ``(i) $1,020,000,000 for fiscal year 2019.
                            ``(ii) $1,041,000,000 for fiscal year 2020.
                            ``(iii) $1,064,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2021.
                            ``(iv) $1,087,000,000 for fiscal year 2022.
                            ``(v) $1,110,000,000 for fiscal year 2023.
                    ``(B) Availability.--Sums authorized to be 
                appropriated under subparagraph (A) shall remain 
                available for 2 fiscal years.''.

SEC. 138. SAFETY EQUIPMENT.

    Section 47102(3)(B)(ii) of title 49, United States Code, is amended 
by striking ``and emergency call boxes,'' and inserting ``emergency 
call boxes, and counter-UAS systems (as defined in section 40102),''.

SEC. 139. USE OF AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT FUNDS TO PREVENT POWER OUTAGES.

    Section 47102(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
            ``(P) an on-airport project to purchase and install 
        generators to prevent power outages in the passenger areas of 
        the airport, separate an airport's redundant power supply and 
        its main power supply, or prevent power outages in the airport 
        or damage to the airport's power supply.''.

SEC. 140. GENERAL WRITTEN ASSURANCES.

    Section 47107(a)(17) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``each contract'' and inserting ``if any phase of such project 
has received funds under this subchapter, each contract''.

SEC. 141. CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN CONTROL TOWERS.

    Section 47116(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended adding 
at the end the following:
            ``(3) Control tower construction.--Notwithstanding any 
        provision of section 47124(b)(4)(A), the Secretary may provide 
        grants under this section to an airport sponsor for the 
        construction or improvement of a nonapproach control tower, as 
        defined by the Secretary, and for the acquisition and 
        installation of air traffic control, communications, and 
        related equipment to be used in that tower. Such grants shall 
        be subject to the distribution requirements of subsection (b) 
        and the eligibility requirements of section 47124(b)(4)(B).''.

SEC. 142. SMALL AIRPORT REGULATION RELIEF.

    Section 47114(c)(1) is amended by striking subparagraph (F) and 
inserting the following:
                    ``(F) Special rule for fiscal years 2018 through 
                2020.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) and subject to 
                subparagraph (G), the Secretary shall apportion to a 
                sponsor of an airport under that subparagraph for each 
                of fiscal years 2018 through 2020 an amount based on 
                the number of passenger boardings at the airport during 
                calendar year 2012 if the airport--
                            ``(i) had 10,000 or more passenger 
                        boardings during calendar year 2012;
                            ``(ii) had fewer than 10,000 passenger 
                        boardings during the calendar year used to 
                        calculate the apportionment for fiscal year 
                        2018, 2019, or 2020, as applicable, under 
                        subparagraph (A); and
                            ``(iii) had scheduled air service at any 
                        point in the calendar year used to calculate 
                        the apportionment.''.

        Subtitle D--Airport Noise and Environmental Streamlining

SEC. 151. RECYCLING PLANS FOR AIRPORTS.

    Section 47106(a)(6) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting ``that includes the project'' before ``, the master plan''.

SEC. 152. PILOT PROGRAM SUNSET.

    (a) In General.--Section 47140 of title 49, United States Code, is 
repealed.
    (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 47140a of title 49, United 
States Code, is redesignated as section 47140.
    (c) Clerical Amendments.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking the items relating to sections 47140 and 
        47140a; and
            (2) by inserting after the item relating to section 47139 
        the following:

``47140. Increasing the energy efficiency of airport power sources.''.

SEC. 153. EXTENSION OF GRANT AUTHORITY FOR COMPATIBLE LAND USE PLANNING 
              AND PROJECTS BY STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.

    Section 47141(f) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``2018'' and inserting ``2023''.

SEC. 154. UPDATING AIRPORT NOISE EXPOSURE MAPS.

    Section 47503(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
    ``(b) Revised Maps.--
            ``(1) In general.--An airport operator that submitted a 
        noise exposure map under subsection (a) shall submit a revised 
        map to the Secretary if, in an area surrounding an airport, a 
        change in the operation of the airport would establish a 
        substantial new noncompatible use, or would significantly 
        reduce noise over existing noncompatible uses, that is not 
        reflected in either the existing conditions map or forecast map 
        currently on file with the Federal Aviation Administration.
            ``(2) Timing.--A submission under paragraph (1) shall be 
        required only if the relevant change in the operation of the 
        airport occurs during--
                    ``(A) the forecast period of the applicable noise 
                exposure map submitted by an airport operator under 
                subsection (a); or
                    ``(B) the implementation period of the airport 
                operator's noise compatibility program.''.

SEC. 155. STAGE 3 AIRCRAFT STUDY.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
review of the potential benefits, costs, and other impacts that would 
result from a phaseout of covered stage 3 aircraft.
    (b) Contents.--The review shall include--
            (1) a determination of the number, types, frequency of 
        operations, and owners and operators of covered stage 3 
        aircraft;
            (2) an analysis of the potential benefits, costs, and other 
        impacts to air carriers, general aviation operators, airports, 
        communities surrounding airports, and the general public 
        associated with phasing out or reducing the operations of 
        covered stage 3 aircraft, assuming such a phaseout or reduction 
        is put into effect over a reasonable period of time;
            (3) a determination of lessons learned from the phaseout of 
        stage 2 aircraft that might be applicable to a phaseout or 
        reduction in the operations of covered stage 3 aircraft, 
        including comparisons between the benefits, costs, and other 
        impacts associated with the phaseout of stage 2 aircraft and 
        the potential benefits, costs, and other impacts determined 
        under paragraph (2);
            (4) a determination of the costs and logistical challenges 
        associated with recertifying stage 3 aircraft capable of 
        meeting stage 4 noise levels; and
            (5) a determination of stakeholder views on the feasibility 
        and desirability of phasing out covered stage 3 aircraft, 
        including the views of--
                    (A) air carriers;
                    (B) airports;
                    (C) communities surrounding airports;
                    (D) aircraft and avionics manufacturers;
                    (E) operators of covered stage 3 aircraft other 
                than air carriers; and
                    (F) such other stakeholders and aviation experts as 
                the Comptroller General considers appropriate.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the review.
    (d) Covered Stage 3 Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered stage 3 aircraft'' means a civil subsonic jet aircraft that 
is not capable of meeting the stage 4 noise levels in part 36 of title 
14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 156. ADDRESSING COMMUNITY NOISE CONCERNS.

    When proposing a new area navigation departure procedure, or 
amending an existing procedure that would direct aircraft between the 
surface and 6,000 feet above ground level over noise sensitive areas, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall consider 
the feasibility of dispersal headings or other lateral track variations 
to address community noise concerns, if--
            (1) the affected airport operator, in consultation with the 
        affected community, submits a request to the Administrator for 
        such a consideration;
            (2) the airport operator's request would not, in the 
        judgment of the Administrator, conflict with the safe and 
        efficient operation of the national airspace system; and
            (3) the effect of a modified departure procedure would not 
        significantly increase noise over noise sensitive areas, as 
        determined by the Administrator.

SEC. 157. STUDY ON POTENTIAL HEALTH AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF OVERFLIGHT 
              NOISE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall enter into an agreement with an eligible 
institution of higher education to conduct a study on the health 
impacts of noise from aircraft flights on residents exposed to a range 
of noise levels from such flights.
    (b) Scope of Study.--The study shall--
            (1) include an examination of the incremental health 
        impacts attributable to noise exposure that result from 
        aircraft flights, including sleep disturbance and elevated 
        blood pressure;
            (2) be focused on residents in the metropolitan area of--
                    (A) Boston;
                    (B) Chicago;
                    (C) the District of Columbia;
                    (D) New York;
                    (E) the Northern California Metroplex;
                    (F) Phoenix;
                    (G) the Southern California Metroplex;
                    (H) Seattle; or
                    (I) such other area as may be identified by the 
                Administrator;
            (3) consider, in particular, the incremental health impacts 
        on residents living partly or wholly underneath flight paths 
        most frequently used by aircraft flying at an altitude lower 
        than 10,000 feet, including during takeoff or landing;
            (4) include an assessment of the relationship between a 
        perceived increase in aircraft noise, including as a result of 
        a change in flight paths that increases the visibility of 
        aircraft from a certain location, and an actual increase in 
        aircraft noise, particularly in areas with high or variable 
        levels of nonaircraft-related ambient noise; and
            (5) consider the economic harm or benefits to businesses 
        located party or wholly underneath flight paths most frequently 
        used by aircraft flying at an altitude lower than 10,000 feet, 
        including during takeoff or landing.
    (c) Eligibility.--An institution of higher education is eligible to 
conduct the study if the institution--
            (1) has--
                    (A) a school of public health that has participated 
                in the Center of Excellence for Aircraft Noise and 
                Aviation Emissions Mitigation of the Federal Aviation 
                Administration; or
                    (B) a center for environmental health that receives 
                funding from the National Institute of Environmental 
                Health Sciences;
            (2) is located in one of the areas identified in subsection 
        (b);
            (3) applies to the Administrator in a timely fashion;
            (4) demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Administrator 
        that the institution is qualified to conduct the study;
            (5) agrees to submit to the Administrator, not later than 3 
        years after entering into an agreement under subsection (a), 
        the results of the study, including any source materials used; 
        and
            (6) meets such other requirements as the Administrator 
        determines necessary.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the Administrator 
receives the results of the study, the Administrator shall submit to 
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report containing the results.

SEC. 158. ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION PILOT PROGRAM.

    (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall carry out a 
pilot program involving not more than 6 projects at public-use airports 
in accordance with this section.
    (b) Grants.--In carrying out the program, the Secretary may make 
grants to sponsors of public-use airports from funds apportioned under 
section 47117(e)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code.
    (c) Use of Funds.--Amounts from a grant received by the sponsor of 
a public-use airport under the program shall be used for environmental 
mitigation projects that will measurably reduce or mitigate aviation 
impacts on noise, air quality, or water quality at the airport or 
within 5 miles of the airport.
    (d) Eligibility.--Notwithstanding any other provision of chapter 
471 of title 49, United States Code, an environmental mitigation 
project approved under this section shall be treated as eligible for 
assistance under that chapter.
    (e) Selection Criteria.--In selecting from among applicants for 
participation in the program, the Secretary may give priority 
consideration to projects that--
            (1) will achieve the greatest reductions in aircraft noise, 
        airport emissions, or airport water quality impacts either on 
        an absolute basis or on a per dollar of funds expended basis; 
        and
            (2) will be implemented by an eligible consortium.
    (f) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of a project 
carried out under the program shall be 50 percent.
    (g) Maximum Amount.--Not more than $2,500,000 may be made available 
by the Secretary in grants under the program for any single project.
    (h) Identifying Best Practices.--The Secretary may establish and 
publish information identifying best practices for reducing or 
mitigating aviation impacts on noise, air quality, and water quality at 
airports or in the vicinity of airports based on the projects carried 
out under the program.
    (i) Sunset.--The program shall terminate 5 years after the 
Secretary makes the first grant under the program.
    (j) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Eligible consortium.--The term ``eligible consortium'' 
        means a consortium that is comprised of 2 or more of the 
        following entities:
                    (A) Businesses incorporated in the United States.
                    (B) Public or private educational or research 
                organizations located in the United States.
                    (C) Entities of State or local governments in the 
                United States.
                    (D) Federal laboratories.
            (2) Environmental mitigation project.--The term 
        ``environmental mitigation project'' means a project that--
                    (A) introduces new environmental mitigation 
                techniques or technologies that have been proven in 
                laboratory demonstrations;
                    (B) proposes methods for efficient adaptation or 
                integration of new concepts into airport operations; 
                and
                    (C) will demonstrate whether new techniques or 
                technologies for environmental mitigation are--
                            (i) practical to implement at or near 
                        multiple public-use airports; and
                            (ii) capable of reducing noise, airport 
                        emissions, or water quality impacts in 
                        measurably significant amounts.
    (k) Authorization for the Transfer of Funds From Department of 
Defense.--
            (1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration may accept funds from the Secretary of Defense 
        to increase the authorized funding for this section by the 
        amount of such transfer only to carry out projects designed for 
        environmental mitigation at a site previously, but not 
        currently, managed by the Department of Defense.
            (2) Additional grantees.--If additional funds are made 
        available by the Secretary of Defense under paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator may increase the number of grantees under 
        subsection (a).

SEC. 159. AIRCRAFT NOISE EXPOSURE.

    (a) Review.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall conduct a review of the relationship between 
aircraft noise exposure and its effects on communities around airports.
    (b) Report.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to 
        Congress a report containing the results of the review.
            (2) Preliminary recommendations.--The report shall contain 
        such preliminary recommendations as the Administrator 
        determines appropriate for revising the land use compatibility 
        guidelines in part 150 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, based on the results of the review and in 
        coordination with other agencies.

SEC. 160. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN FAA NEXTGEN PROJECTS LOCATED IN 
              METROPLEXES.

    (a) Community Involvement Policy.--Not later than 180 days after 
the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall complete a review of the Federal Aviation 
Administration's community involvement practices for Next Generation 
Air Transportation System (NextGen) projects located in metroplexes 
identified by the Administration. The review shall include, at a 
minimum, a determination of how and when to engage airports and 
communities in performance-based navigation proposals.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 60 days after completion of the review, 
the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on--
            (1) how the Administration will improve community 
        involvement practices for NextGen projects located in 
        metroplexes;
            (2) how and when the Administration will engage airports 
        and communities in performance-based navigation proposals; and
            (3) lessons learned from NextGen projects and pilot 
        programs and how those lessons learned are being integrated 
        into community involvement practices for future NextGen 
        projects located in metroplexes.

SEC. 161. CRITICAL HABITAT ON OR NEAR AIRPORT PROPERTY.

    (a) Federal Agency Requirements.--The Secretary of Transportation, 
to the maximum extent practicable, shall work with the heads of 
appropriate Federal agencies to ensure that designations of critical 
habitat, as that term is defined in section 3 of the Endangered Species 
Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1532), on or near airport property do not--
            (1) result in conflicting statutory, regulatory, or Federal 
        grant assurance requirements for airports or aircraft 
        operators;
            (2) interfere with the safe operation of aircraft; or
            (3) occur on airport-owned lands that have become 
        attractive habitat for a threatened or endangered species 
        because such lands--
                    (A) have been prepared for future development;
                    (B) have been designated as noise buffer land; or
                    (C) are held by the airport to prevent encroachment 
                of uses that are incompatible with airport operations.
    (b) State Requirements.--In a State where a State agency is 
authorized to designate land on or near airport property for the 
conservation of a threatened or endangered species in the State, the 
Secretary, to the maximum extent practicable, shall work with the State 
in the same manner as the Secretary works with the heads of Federal 
agencies under subsection (a).

SEC. 162. CLARIFICATION OF REIMBURSABLE ALLOWED COSTS OF FAA MEMORANDA 
              OF AGREEMENT.

    Section 47504(c)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in subparagraph (D) by striking ``and'' at the end;
            (2) in subparagraph (E) by striking the period at the end 
        and inserting ``; and''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(F) to an airport operator of a congested airport (as 
        defined in section 47175) and a unit of local government 
        referred to in paragraph (1)(B) to carry out a project to 
        mitigate noise, if the project--
                    ``(i) consists of--
                            ``(I) replacement windows, doors, and the 
                        installation of through-the-wall air-
                        conditioning units; or
                            ``(II) a contribution of the equivalent 
                        costs to be used for reconstruction, if 
                        reconstruction is the preferred local solution;
                    ``(ii) is located at a school near the airport; and
                    ``(iii) is included in a memorandum of agreement 
                entered into before September 30, 2002, even if the 
                airport has not met the requirements of part 150 of 
                title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and only if the 
                financial limitations of the memorandum are applied.''.

SEC. 163. LEAD EMISSIONS.

    (a) Study.--The Secretary of Transportation shall enter into 
appropriate arrangements with the National Academies of Sciences, 
Engineering, and Medicine under which the National Research Council 
will conduct a study and develop a report on aviation gasoline.
    (b) Contents.--The study shall include an assessment of--
            (1) existing non-leaded fuel alternatives to the aviation 
        gasoline used by piston-powered general aviation aircraft;
            (2) ambient Pb concentrations at and around airports where 
        piston-powered general aviation aircraft are used; and
            (3) mitigation measures to reduce ambient Pb 
        concentrations, including increasing the size of run-up areas, 
        relocating run-up areas, imposing restrictions on aircraft 
        using aviation gasoline, and increasing the use of motor 
        gasoline in piston-powered general aviation aircraft.
    (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress the 
report developed by the National Research Council pursuant to this 
section.

SEC. 164. AIRCRAFT NOISE, EMISSION, AND FUEL BURN REDUCTION PROGRAM.

    (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may carry out an 
aircraft noise, emission, and fuel burn reduction research and 
development program.
    (b) Elements.--In carrying out the program under subsection (a), 
the Secretary may--
            (1) support efforts to accelerate the development of new 
        aircraft, engine technologies, and jet fuels;
            (2) pursue lighter and more efficient turbine engine 
        components, advanced aircraft wing designs, fuselage structures 
        for innovative aircraft architectures, and smart aircraft and 
        engine control systems; and
            (3) partner with private industry to accomplish the goals 
        of the program.

SEC. 165. TERMINAL SEQUENCING AND SPACING.

    Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall report to 
the appropriate committees of Congress on the status of Terminal 
Sequencing and Spacing (TSAS) implementation across all completed 
NextGen Metroplexes with specific information provided by airline 
regarding the adoption and equipping of aircraft and the training of 
pilots in its use.

SEC. 166. NOISE AND HEALTH IMPACT TRAINING.

    (a) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study on--
            (1) while maintaining safety as the top priority, whether 
        air traffic controllers and airspace designers are trained on 
        noise and health impact mitigation in addition to efficiency; 
        and
            (2) the prevalence of vectoring flights due to over-crowded 
        departure and arrival paths and alternatives to this practice.
    (b) Report.--The Comptroller General shall submit to Congress a 
report on the results of the study.

SEC. 167. AIRPORT NOISE MITIGATION AND SAFETY STUDY.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall initiate a study to review and evaluate existing studies and 
analyses of the relationship between jet aircraft approach and takeoff 
speeds and corresponding noise impacts on communities surrounding 
airports.
    (b) Considerations.--In conducting the study initiated under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall determine--
            (1) whether a decrease in jet aircraft approach or takeoff 
        speeds results in significant aircraft noise reductions;
            (2) whether the jet aircraft approach or takeoff speed 
        reduction necessary to achieve significant noise reductions--
                    (A) jeopardizes aviation safety; or
                    (B) decreases the efficiency of the National 
                Airspace System, including lowering airport capacity, 
                increasing travel times, or increasing fuel burn;
            (3) the advisability of using jet aircraft approach or 
        takeoff speeds as a noise mitigation technique; and
            (4) if the Administrator determines that using jet aircraft 
        approach or takeoff speeds as a noise mitigation technique is 
        advisable, whether any of the metropolitan areas specifically 
        identified in section 157(b)(2) would benefit from such a noise 
        mitigation technique without a significant impact to aviation 
        safety or the efficiency of the National Airspace System.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study initiated under subsection (a).

SEC. 168. JUDICIAL REVIEW FOR PROPOSED ALTERNATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW 
              AND APPROVAL PROCEDURES.

    Section 330(e) of title 23, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (2)(A) by striking ``2 years'' and 
        inserting ``150 days as set forth in section 139(l)''; and
            (2) in paragraph (3)(B)(i) by striking ``2 years'' and 
        inserting ``150 days as set forth in section 139(l)''.

               TITLE II--FAA SAFETY CERTIFICATION REFORM

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

SEC. 201. DEFINITIONS.

    In this title, the following definitions apply:
            (1) FAA.--The term ``FAA'' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            (2) Safety oversight and certification advisory 
        committee.--The term ``Safety Oversight and Certification 
        Advisory Committee'' means the Safety Oversight and 
        Certification Advisory Committee established under section 202.
            (3) Systems safety approach.--The term ``systems safety 
        approach'' means the application of specialized technical and 
        managerial skills to the systematic, forward-looking 
        identification and control of hazards throughout the lifecycle 
        of a project, program, or activity.

SEC. 202. SAFETY OVERSIGHT AND CERTIFICATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish a Safety 
Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee (in this section 
referred to as the ``Advisory Committee'').
    (b) Duties.--The Advisory Committee shall provide advice to the 
Secretary on policy-level issues facing the aviation community that are 
related to FAA certification and safety oversight programs and 
activities, including, at a minimum, the following:
            (1) Aircraft and flight standards certification processes, 
        including efforts to streamline those processes.
            (2) Implementation and oversight of safety management 
        systems.
            (3) Risk-based oversight efforts.
            (4) Utilization of delegation and designation authorities.
            (5) Regulatory interpretation standardization efforts.
            (6) Training programs.
            (7) Expediting the rulemaking process and giving priority 
        to rules related to safety.
    (c) Functions.--The Advisory Committee shall carry out the 
following functions (as the functions relate to FAA certification and 
safety oversight programs and activities):
            (1) Foster industry collaboration in an open and 
        transparent manner.
            (2) Consult with, and ensure participation by--
                    (A) the private sector, including representatives 
                of--
                            (i) general aviation;
                            (ii) commercial aviation;
                            (iii) aviation labor;
                            (iv) aviation maintenance;
                            (v) aviation, aerospace, and avionics 
                        manufacturing;
                            (vi) unmanned aircraft systems operators 
                        and manufacturers; and
                            (vii) the commercial space transportation 
                        industry;
                    (B) members of the public; and
                    (C) other interested parties.
            (3) Establish consensus national goals, strategic 
        objectives, and priorities for the most efficient, streamlined, 
        and cost-effective certification and oversight processes in 
        order to maintain the safety of the aviation system and, at the 
        same time, allow the FAA to meet future needs and ensure that 
        aviation stakeholders remain competitive in the global 
        marketplace.
            (4) Provide policy guidance for the FAA's certification and 
        safety oversight efforts.
            (5) Provide ongoing policy reviews of the FAA's 
        certification and safety oversight efforts.
            (6) Make appropriate legislative, regulatory, and guidance 
        recommendations for the air transportation system and the 
        aviation safety regulatory environment.
            (7) Establish performance objectives for the FAA and 
        industry.
            (8) Establish performance metrics and goals for the FAA and 
        the regulated aviation industry to be tracked and reviewed as 
        streamlining and certification reform and regulation 
        standardization efforts progress.
            (9) Provide a venue for tracking progress toward national 
        goals and sustaining joint commitments.
            (10) Develop recruiting, hiring, training, and continuing 
        education objectives for FAA aviation safety engineers and 
        aviation safety inspectors.
            (11) Provide advice and recommendations to the FAA on how 
        to prioritize safety rulemaking projects.
            (12) Improve the development of FAA regulations by 
        providing information, advice, and recommendations related to 
        aviation issues.
            (13) Facilitate the validation of United States products 
        abroad.
    (d) Membership.--
            (1) In general.--The Advisory Committee shall be composed 
        of the following members:
                    (A) The Administrator of the FAA (or the 
                Administrator's designee).
                    (B) Individuals appointed by the Secretary to 
                represent the following interests:
                            (i) Aircraft and engine manufacturers.
                            (ii) Avionics and equipment manufacturers.
                            (iii) Labor organizations, including 
                        collective bargaining representatives of FAA 
                        aviation safety inspectors and aviation safety 
                        engineers.
                            (iv) General aviation operators.
                            (v) Air carriers.
                            (vi) Business aviation operators.
                            (vii) Unmanned aircraft systems 
                        manufacturers and operators.
                            (viii) Aviation safety management 
                        expertise.
                            (ix) Aviation maintenance.
                            (x) Airport owners and operators.
            (2) Nonvoting members.--
                    (A) In general.--In addition to the members 
                appointed under paragraph (1), the Advisory Committee 
                shall be composed of nonvoting members appointed by the 
                Secretary from among individuals representing FAA 
                safety oversight program offices.
                    (B) Duties.--The nonvoting members shall--
                            (i) take part in deliberations of the 
                        Advisory Committee; and
                            (ii) provide input with respect to any 
                        final reports or recommendations of the 
                        Advisory Committee.
                    (C) Limitation.--The nonvoting members may not 
                represent any stakeholder interest other than FAA 
                safety oversight program offices.
            (3) Terms.--Each member and nonvoting member of the 
        Advisory Committee appointed by the Secretary shall be 
        appointed for a term of 2 years.
            (4) Committee characteristics.--The Advisory Committee 
        shall have the following characteristics:
                    (A) An executive-level membership, with members who 
                can represent and enter into commitments for their 
                organizations.
                    (B) The ability to obtain necessary information 
                from experts in the aviation and aerospace communities.
                    (C) A membership size that enables the Committee to 
                have substantive discussions and reach consensus on 
                issues in a timely manner.
                    (D) Appropriate expertise, including expertise in 
                certification and risked-based safety oversight 
                processes, operations, policy, technology, labor 
                relations, training, and finance.
            (5) Limitation on statutory construction.--Public Law 104-
        65 (2 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) may not be construed to prohibit or 
        otherwise limit the appointment of any individual as a member 
        of the Advisory Committee.
    (e) Chairperson.--
            (1) In general.--The Chairperson of the Advisory Committee 
        shall be appointed by the Secretary from among those members of 
        the Advisory Committee that are executive-level members of the 
        aviation industry.
            (2) Term.--Each member appointed under paragraph (1) shall 
        serve a term of 1 year as Chairperson.
    (f) Meetings.--
            (1) Frequency.--The Advisory Committee shall meet at least 
        twice each year at the call of the Chairperson.
            (2) Public attendance.--The meetings of the Advisory 
        Committee shall be open to the public.
    (g) Special Committees.--
            (1) Establishment.--The Advisory Committee may establish 
        special committees composed of private sector representatives, 
        members of the public, labor representatives, and other 
        interested parties in complying with consultation and 
        participation requirements under this section.
            (2) Rulemaking advice.--A special committee established by 
        the Advisory Committee may--
                    (A) provide rulemaking advice and recommendations 
                to the Administrator with respect to aviation-related 
                issues;
                    (B) afford the FAA additional opportunities to 
                obtain firsthand information and insight from those 
                parties that are most affected by existing and proposed 
                regulations; and
                    (C) expedite the development, revision, or 
                elimination of rules without circumventing public 
                rulemaking processes and procedures.
            (3) Applicable law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to a 
        special committee established by the Advisory Committee.
    (h) Sunset.--The Advisory Committee shall terminate on the last day 
of the 6-year period beginning on the date of the initial appointment 
of the members of the Advisory Committee.
    (i) Termination of Air Traffic Procedures Advisory Committee.--The 
Air Traffic Procedures Advisory Committee established by the FAA shall 
terminate on the date of the initial appointment of the members of the 
Advisory Committee.

SEC. 203. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR FIREFIGHTING FOAMS.

    Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the FAA, using the latest version of National Fire 
Protection Association 403, ``Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Fire-
Fighting Services at Airports'', and in coordination with the 
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, aircraft 
manufacturers and airports, shall not require the use of fluorinated 
chemicals to meet the performance standards referenced in chapter 6 of 
AC No: 150/5210-6D and acceptable under 139.319(l) of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations.

               Subtitle B--Aircraft Certification Reform

SEC. 211. AIRCRAFT CERTIFICATION PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES AND METRICS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date on which 
the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee is 
established under section 202, the Administrator of the FAA shall 
establish performance objectives and apply and track metrics for the 
FAA and the aviation industry relating to aircraft certification in 
accordance with this section.
    (b) Collaboration.--The Administrator shall carry out this section 
in collaboration with the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory 
Committee.
    (c) Performance Objectives.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall establish performance objectives for the FAA and 
the aviation industry to ensure that, with respect to aircraft 
certification, progress is made toward, at a minimum--
            (1) eliminating certification delays and improving cycle 
        times;
            (2) increasing accountability for both FAA and industry 
        entities;
            (3) achieving full utilization of FAA delegation and 
        designation authorities;
            (4) fully implementing risk management principles and a 
        systems safety approach;
            (5) reducing duplication of effort;
            (6) increasing transparency;
            (7) establishing and providing training, including 
        recurrent training, in auditing and a systems safety approach 
        to certification oversight;
            (8) improving the process for approving or accepting 
        certification actions between the FAA and bilateral partners;
            (9) maintaining and improving safety;
            (10) streamlining the hiring process for--
                    (A) qualified systems safety engineers to support 
                FAA efforts to implement a systems safety approach; and
                    (B) qualified systems engineers to guide the 
                engineering of complex systems within the FAA; and
            (11) maintaining the leadership of the United States in 
        international aviation and aerospace.
    (d) Performance Metrics.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall apply and track performance metrics for the FAA and 
the regulated aviation industry established by the Safety Oversight and 
Certification Advisory Committee.
    (e) Data Generation.--
            (1) Baselines.--Not later than 1 year after the date on 
        which the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee 
        establishes initial performance metrics for the FAA and the 
        regulated aviation industry under section 202, the 
        Administrator shall generate initial data with respect to each 
        of the metrics applied and tracked under this section.
            (2) Measuring progress toward goals.--The Administrator 
        shall use the metrics applied and tracked under this section to 
        generate data on an ongoing basis and to measure progress 
        toward the achievement of national goals established by the 
        Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee.
    (f) Publication.--The Administrator shall make data generated using 
the metrics applied and tracked under this section available to the 
public in a searchable, sortable, and downloadable format through the 
internet website of the FAA and other appropriate methods and shall 
ensure that the data is made available in a manner that--
            (1) does not provide identifying information regarding an 
        individual or entity; and
            (2) protects proprietary information.

SEC. 212. ORGANIZATION DESIGNATION AUTHORIZATIONS.

    (a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 44736. Organization designation authorizations
    ``(a) Delegations of Functions.--
            ``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (3), 
        when overseeing an ODA holder, the Administrator of the FAA 
        shall--
                    ``(A) require, based on an application submitted by 
                the ODA holder and approved by the Administrator (or 
                the Administrator's designee), a procedures manual that 
                addresses all procedures and limitations regarding the 
                functions to be performed by the ODA holder;
                    ``(B) delegate fully to the ODA holder each of the 
                functions to be performed as specified in the 
                procedures manual, unless the Administrator determines, 
                after the date of the delegation and as a result of an 
                inspection or other investigation, that the public 
                interest and safety of air commerce requires a 
                limitation with respect to 1 or more of the functions; 
                and
                    ``(C) conduct regular oversight activities by 
                inspecting the ODA holder's delegated functions and 
                taking action based on validated inspection findings.
            ``(2) Duties of oda holders.--An ODA holder shall--
                    ``(A) perform each function delegated to the ODA 
                holder in accordance with the approved procedures 
                manual for the delegation;
                    ``(B) make the procedures manual available to each 
                member of the appropriate ODA unit; and
                    ``(C) cooperate fully with oversight activities 
                conducted by the Administrator in connection with the 
                delegation.
            ``(3) Existing oda holders.--With regard to an ODA holder 
        operating under a procedures manual approved by the 
        Administrator before the date of enactment of this section, the 
        Administrator shall--
                    ``(A) at the request of the ODA holder and in an 
                expeditious manner, approve revisions to the ODA 
                holder's procedures manual;
                    ``(B) delegate fully to the ODA holder each of the 
                functions to be performed as specified in the 
                procedures manual, unless the Administrator determines, 
                after the date of the delegation and as a result of an 
                inspection or other investigation, that the public 
                interest and safety of air commerce requires a 
                limitation with respect to one or more of the 
                functions; and
                    ``(C) conduct regular oversight activities by 
                inspecting the ODA holder delegated functions and 
                taking action based on validated inspection findings.
    ``(b) ODA Office.--
            ``(1) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
        of enactment of this section, the Administrator of the FAA 
        shall identify, within the FAA Office of Aviation Safety, a 
        centralized policy office to be known as the Organization 
        Designation Authorization Office or the ODA Office.
            ``(2) Purpose.--The purpose of the ODA Office shall be to 
        oversee and ensure the consistency of the FAA's audit functions 
        under the ODA program across the FAA.
            ``(3) Functions.--The ODA Office shall--
                    ``(A) improve performance and ensure full 
                utilization of the authorities delegated under the ODA 
                program;
                    ``(B) create a more consistent approach to audit 
                priorities, procedures, and training under the ODA 
                program;
                    ``(C) review, in a timely fashion, a random sample 
                of limitations on delegated authorities under the ODA 
                program to determine if the limitations are 
                appropriate;
                    ``(D) ensure national consistency in the 
                interpretation and application of the requirements of 
                the ODA program, including any limitations, and in the 
                performance of the ODA program; and
                    ``(E) at the request of an ODA holder, review and 
                approve new limitations to ODA functions.
    ``(c) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) FAA.--The term `FAA' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            ``(2) ODA holder.--The term `ODA holder' means an entity 
        authorized to perform functions pursuant to a delegation made 
        by the Administrator of the FAA under section 44702(d).
            ``(3) ODA unit.--The term ``ODA unit'' means a group of 2 
        or more individuals who perform, under the supervision of an 
        ODA holder, authorized functions under an ODA.
            ``(4) Organization.--The term ``organization'' means a 
        firm, partnership, corporation, company, association, joint-
        stock association, or governmental entity.
            ``(5) Organization designation authorization; oda.--The 
        term `Organization Designation Authorization' or `ODA' means an 
        authorization by the FAA under section 44702(d) for an 
        organization comprised of 1 or more ODA units to perform 
        approved functions on behalf of the FAA.''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``44736. Organization designation authorizations.''.

SEC. 213. ODA REVIEW.

    (a) Establishment of Expert Review Panel.--
            (1) Expert panel.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall 
        convene a multidisciplinary expert review panel (in this 
        section referred to as the ``Panel'').
            (2) Composition of panel.--
                    (A) Appointment of members.--The Panel shall be 
                composed of not more than 20 members appointed by the 
                Administrator.
                    (B) Qualifications.--The members appointed to the 
                Panel shall--
                            (i) each have a minimum of 5 years of 
                        experience in processes and procedures under 
                        the ODA program; and
                            (ii) represent, at a minimum, ODA holders, 
                        aviation manufacturers, safety experts, and FAA 
                        labor organizations, including labor 
                        representatives of FAA aviation safety 
                        inspectors and aviation safety engineers.
    (b) Survey.--The Panel shall conduct a survey of ODA holders and 
ODA program applicants to document and assess FAA certification and 
oversight activities, including use of the ODA program and the 
timeliness and efficiency of the certification process.
    (c) Assessment and Recommendations.--The Panel shall assess and 
make recommendations concerning--
            (1) the FAA's processes and procedures under the ODA 
        program and whether the processes and procedures function as 
        intended;
            (2) the best practices of and lessons learned by ODA 
        holders and individuals who provide oversight of ODA holders;
            (3) performance incentive policies related to the ODA 
        program for FAA personnel;
            (4) training activities related to the ODA program for FAA 
        personnel and ODA holders;
            (5) the impact, if any, that oversight of the ODA program 
        has on FAA resources and the FAA's ability to process 
        applications for certifications outside of the ODA program; and
            (6) the results of the survey conducted under subsection 
        (b).
    (d) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date the Panel is 
convened under subsection (a), the Panel shall submit to the 
Administrator, the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory 
Committee, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the findings and 
recommendations of the Panel.
    (e) Definitions.--The definitions contained in section 44736 of 
title 49, United States Code, as added by this Act, apply to this 
section.
    (f) Applicable Law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to the 
Panel.
    (g) Sunset.--The Panel shall terminate on the date of submission of 
the report under subsection (d), or on the date that is 1 year after 
the Panel is convened under subsection (a), whichever occurs first.

SEC. 214. TYPE CERTIFICATION RESOLUTION PROCESS.

    (a) In General.--Section 44704(a) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(6) Type certification resolution process.--
                    ``(A) In general.--Not later than 15 months after 
                the date of enactment of this paragraph, the 
                Administrator shall establish an effective, timely, and 
                milestone-based issue resolution process for type 
                certification activities under this subsection.
                    ``(B) Process requirements.--The resolution process 
                shall provide for--
                            ``(i) resolution of technical issues at 
                        pre-established stages of the certification 
                        process, as agreed to by the Administrator and 
                        the type certificate applicant;
                            ``(ii) automatic elevation to appropriate 
                        management personnel of the Federal Aviation 
                        Administration and the type certificate 
                        applicant of any major certification process 
                        milestone that is not completed or resolved 
                        within a specific period of time agreed to by 
                        the Administrator and the type certificate 
                        applicant; and
                            ``(iii) resolution of a major certification 
                        process milestone elevated pursuant to clause 
                        (ii) within a specific period of time agreed to 
                        by the Administrator and the type certificate 
                        applicant.
                    ``(C) Major certification process milestone 
                defined.--In this paragraph, the term `major 
                certification process milestone' means a milestone 
                related to a type certification basis, type 
                certification plan, type inspection authorization, 
                issue paper, or other major type certification activity 
                agreed to by the Administrator and the type certificate 
                applicant.''.
    (b) Technical Amendment.--Section 44704 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended in the section heading by striking ``airworthiness 
certificates,,'' and inserting ``airworthiness certificates,''.

SEC. 215. REVIEW OF CERTIFICATION PROCESS FOR SMALL GENERAL AVIATION 
              AIRPLANES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation 
shall initiate a review of the Federal Aviation Administration's 
implementation of the final rule titled ``Revision of Airworthiness 
Standards for Normal, Utility, Acrobatic, and Commuter Category 
Airplanes'' (81 Fed. Reg. 96572).
    (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the review, the Inspector 
General shall assess--
            (1) how the rule puts into practice the Administration's 
        efforts to implement performance and risk-based safety 
        standards;
            (2) whether the Administration's implementation of the rule 
        has improved safety and reduced the regulatory cost burden for 
        the Administration and the aviation industry; and
            (3) if there are lessons learned from, and best practices 
        developed as a result of, the rule that could be applied to 
        airworthiness standards for other categories of aircraft.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of initiation 
of the review, the Inspector General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the review, including findings and 
recommendations.

                  Subtitle C--Flight Standards Reform

SEC. 231. FLIGHT STANDARDS PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES AND METRICS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date on which 
the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee is 
established under section 202, the Administrator of the FAA shall 
establish performance objectives and apply and track metrics for the 
FAA and the aviation industry relating to flight standards activities 
in accordance with this section.
    (b) Collaboration.--The Administrator shall carry out this section 
in collaboration with the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory 
Committee.
    (c) Performance Objectives.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall establish performance objectives for the FAA and 
the aviation industry to ensure that, with respect to flight standards 
activities, progress is made toward, at a minimum--
            (1) eliminating delays with respect to such activities;
            (2) increasing accountability for both FAA and industry 
        entities;
            (3) achieving full utilization of FAA delegation and 
        designation authorities;
            (4) fully implementing risk management principles and a 
        systems safety approach;
            (5) reducing duplication of effort;
            (6) eliminating inconsistent regulatory interpretations and 
        inconsistent enforcement activities;
            (7) improving and providing greater opportunities for 
        training, including recurrent training, in auditing and a 
        systems safety approach to oversight;
            (8) developing and allowing utilization of a single master 
        source for guidance;
            (9) providing and utilizing a streamlined appeal process 
        for the resolution of regulatory interpretation questions;
            (10) maintaining and improving safety; and
            (11) increasing transparency.
    (d) Metrics.--In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall apply and track performance metrics for the FAA and the regulated 
aviation industry established by the Safety Oversight and Certification 
Advisory Committee.
    (e) Data Generation.--
            (1) Baselines.--Not later than 1 year after the date on 
        which the Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee 
        establishes initial performance metrics for the FAA and the 
        regulated aviation industry under section 202, the 
        Administrator shall generate initial data with respect to each 
        of the metrics applied and tracked under this section.
            (2) Measuring progress toward goals.--The Administrator 
        shall use the metrics applied and tracked under this section to 
        generate data on an ongoing basis and to measure progress 
        toward the achievement of national goals established by the 
        Safety Oversight and Certification Advisory Committee.
    (f) Publication.--The Administrator shall make data generated using 
the metrics applied and tracked under this section available to the 
public in a searchable, sortable, and downloadable format through the 
internet website of the FAA and other appropriate methods and shall 
ensure that the data is made available in a manner that--
            (1) does not provide identifying information regarding an 
        individual or entity; and
            (2) protects proprietary information.

SEC. 232. FAA TASK FORCE ON FLIGHT STANDARDS REFORM.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall establish the 
FAA Task Force on Flight Standards Reform (in this section referred to 
as the ``Task Force'').
    (b) Membership.--
            (1) Appointment.--The membership of the Task Force shall be 
        appointed by the Administrator.
            (2) Number.--The Task Force shall be composed of not more 
        than 20 members.
            (3) Representation requirements.--The membership of the 
        Task Force shall include representatives, with knowledge of 
        flight standards regulatory processes and requirements, of--
                    (A) air carriers;
                    (B) general aviation;
                    (C) business aviation;
                    (D) repair stations;
                    (E) unmanned aircraft systems operators;
                    (F) flight schools;
                    (G) labor unions, including those representing FAA 
                aviation safety inspectors;
                    (H) aircraft manufacturers; and
                    (I) aviation safety experts.
    (c) Duties.--The duties of the Task Force shall include, at a 
minimum, identifying best practices and providing recommendations, for 
current and anticipated budgetary environments, with respect to--
            (1) simplifying and streamlining flight standards 
        regulatory processes;
            (2) reorganizing Flight Standards Services to establish an 
        entity organized by function rather than geographic region, if 
        appropriate;
            (3) FAA aviation safety inspector training opportunities;
            (4) ensuring adequate and timely provision of Flight 
        Standards activities and responses necessary for type 
        certification, operational evaluation, and entry into service 
        of newly manufactured aircraft;
            (5) FAA aviation safety inspector standards and 
        performance; and
            (6) achieving, across the FAA, consistent--
                    (A) regulatory interpretations; and
                    (B) application of oversight activities.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the 
establishment of the Task Force, the Task Force shall submit to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report detailing--
            (1) the best practices identified and recommendations 
        provided by the Task Force under subsection (c); and
            (2) any recommendations of the Task Force for additional 
        regulatory, policy, or cost-effective legislative action to 
        improve the efficiency of agency activities.
    (e) Applicable Law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to the Task 
Force.
    (f) Termination.--The Task Force shall terminate on the earlier 
of--
            (1) the date on which the Task Force submits the report 
        required under subsection (d); or
            (2) the date that is 18 months after the date on which the 
        Task Force is established under subsection (a).

SEC. 233. CENTRALIZED SAFETY GUIDANCE DATABASE.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall establish a 
centralized safety guidance database that will--
            (1) encompass all of the regulatory guidance documents of 
        the FAA Office of Aviation Safety;
            (2) contain, for each such guidance document, a link to the 
        Code of Federal Regulations provision to which the document 
        relates; and
            (3) be publicly available in a manner that--
                    (A) does not provide identifying information 
                regarding an individual or entity; and
                    (B) protects proprietary information.
    (b) Data Entry Timing.--
            (1) Existing documents.--Not later than 14 months after the 
        date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall begin 
        entering into the database established under subsection (a) all 
        of the regulatory guidance documents of the Office of Aviation 
        Safety that are in effect and were issued before the date on 
        which the Administrator begins such entry process.
            (2) New documents and changes.--On and after the date on 
        which the Administrator begins the document entry process under 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall ensure that all new 
        regulatory guidance documents of the Office of Aviation Safety 
        and any changes to existing documents are included in the 
        database established under subsection (a).
    (c) Consultation Requirement.--In establishing the database under 
subsection (a), the Administrator shall consult and collaborate with 
appropriate stakeholders, including labor organizations (including 
those representing aviation workers and FAA aviation safety inspectors) 
and industry stakeholders.
    (d) Regulatory Guidance Documents Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``regulatory guidance documents'' means all forms of written 
information issued by the FAA that an individual or entity may use to 
interpret or apply FAA regulations and requirements, including 
information an individual or entity may use to determine acceptable 
means of compliance with such regulations and requirements.

SEC. 234. REGULATORY CONSISTENCY COMMUNICATIONS BOARD.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall establish a 
Regulatory Consistency Communications Board (in this section referred 
to as the ``Board'').
    (b) Consultation Requirement.--In establishing the Board, the 
Administrator shall consult and collaborate with appropriate 
stakeholders, including FAA labor organizations (including labor 
organizations representing FAA aviation safety inspectors) and industry 
stakeholders.
    (c) Membership.--The Board shall be composed of FAA 
representatives, appointed by the Administrator, from--
            (1) the Flight Standards Service;
            (2) the Aircraft Certification Service; and
            (3) the Office of the Chief Counsel.
    (d) Functions.--The Board shall carry out the following functions:
            (1) Establish, at a minimum, processes by which--
                    (A) FAA personnel and regulated entities may submit 
                anonymous regulatory interpretation questions without 
                fear of retaliation; and
                    (B) FAA personnel may submit written questions, and 
                receive written responses, as to whether a previous 
                approval or regulatory interpretation issued by FAA 
                personnel in another office or region is correct or 
                incorrect.
            (2) Meet on a regular basis to discuss and resolve 
        questions submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) and the 
        appropriate application of regulations and policy with respect 
        to each question.
            (3) Provide to an individual or entity that submitted a 
        question pursuant to paragraph (1) a timely response to the 
        question.
            (4) Establish a process to make resolutions of common 
        regulatory interpretation questions publicly available to FAA 
        personnel and regulated entities without providing any 
        identifying data of the individuals or entities that submitted 
        the questions and in a manner that protects any proprietary 
        information.
            (5) Ensure the incorporation of resolutions of questions 
        submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) into regulatory guidance 
        documents.
    (e) Performance Metrics, Timelines, and Goals.--Not later than 180 
days after the date on which the Safety Oversight and Certification 
Advisory Committee establishes performance metrics for the FAA and the 
regulated aviation industry under section 202, the Administrator, in 
collaboration with the Advisory Committee, shall--
            (1) establish performance metrics, timelines, and goals to 
        measure the progress of the Board in resolving regulatory 
        interpretation questions submitted pursuant to subsection 
        (d)(1); and
            (2) implement a process for tracking the progress of the 
        Board in meeting the metrics, timelines, and goals established 
        under paragraph (1).

                      Subtitle D--Safety Workforce

SEC. 241. SAFETY WORKFORCE TRAINING STRATEGY.

    (a) Safety Workforce Training Strategy.--Not later than 60 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the FAA 
shall establish a safety workforce training strategy that--
            (1) allows employees participating in organization 
        management teams or conducting ODA program audits to complete, 
        in a timely fashion, appropriate training, including recurrent 
        training, in auditing and a systems safety approach to 
        oversight;
            (2) seeks knowledge-sharing opportunities between the FAA 
        and the aviation industry regarding new equipment and systems, 
        best practices, and other areas of interest;
            (3) functions within the current and anticipated budgetary 
        environments; and
            (4) includes milestones and metrics for meeting the 
        requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), and (3).
    (b) Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
establishment of the strategy required under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
implementation of the strategy and progress in meeting any milestones 
and metrics included in the strategy.
    (c) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) ODA; oda holder.--The terms ``ODA'' and ``ODA holder'' 
        have the meanings given those terms in section 44736 of title 
        49, United States Code, as added by this Act.
            (2) Organization management team.--The term ``organization 
        management team'' means a team consisting of FAA aviation 
        safety engineers, flight test pilots, and aviation safety 
        inspectors overseeing an ODA holder and its certification 
        activity.

SEC. 242. WORKFORCE REVIEW.

    (a) Workforce Review.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall conduct a review to assess the workforce and training needs of 
the FAA Office of Aviation Safety in the anticipated budgetary 
environment.
    (b) Contents.--The review required under subsection (a) shall 
include--
            (1) a review of current aviation safety inspector and 
        aviation safety engineer hiring, training, and recurrent 
        training requirements;
            (2) an analysis of the skills and qualifications required 
        of aviation safety inspectors and aviation safety engineers for 
        successful performance in the current and future projected 
        aviation safety regulatory environment, including the need for 
        a systems engineering discipline within the FAA to guide the 
        engineering of complex systems, with an emphasis on auditing 
        designated authorities;
            (3) a review of current performance incentive policies of 
        the FAA, as applied to the Office of Aviation Safety, including 
        awards for performance;
            (4) an analysis of ways the FAA can work with industry and 
        labor, including labor groups representing FAA aviation safety 
        inspectors and aviation safety engineers, to establish 
        knowledge-sharing opportunities between the FAA and the 
        aviation industry regarding new equipment and systems, best 
        practices, and other areas of interest; and
            (5) recommendations on the most effective qualifications, 
        training programs (including e-learning training), and 
        performance incentive approaches to address the needs of the 
        future projected aviation safety regulatory system in the 
        anticipated budgetary environment.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the review required under subsection (a).

                   Subtitle E--International Aviation

SEC. 251. PROMOTION OF UNITED STATES AEROSPACE STANDARDS, PRODUCTS, AND 
              SERVICES ABROAD.

    Section 40104 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(d) Promotion of United States Aerospace Standards, Products, and 
Services Abroad.--The Administrator shall take appropriate actions to--
            ``(1) promote United States aerospace safety standards 
        abroad;
            ``(2) facilitate and vigorously defend approvals of United 
        States aerospace products and services abroad;
            ``(3) with respect to bilateral partners, utilize bilateral 
        safety agreements and other mechanisms to improve validation of 
        United States type certificated aeronautical products and 
        appliances and enhance mutual acceptance in order to eliminate 
        redundancies and unnecessary costs; and
            ``(4) with respect to foreign safety authorities, 
        streamline validation and coordination processes.''.

SEC. 252. BILATERAL EXCHANGES OF SAFETY OVERSIGHT RESPONSIBILITIES.

    Section 44701(e) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
            ``(5) Foreign airworthiness directives.--
                    ``(A) Acceptance.--The Administrator may accept an 
                airworthiness directive issued by an aeronautical 
                safety authority of a foreign country, and leverage 
                that authority's regulatory process, if--
                            ``(i) the country is the state of design 
                        for the product that is the subject of the 
                        airworthiness directive;
                            ``(ii) the United States has a bilateral 
                        safety agreement relating to aircraft 
                        certification with the country;
                            ``(iii) as part of the bilateral safety 
                        agreement with the country, the Administrator 
                        has determined that such aeronautical safety 
                        authority has a certification system relating 
                        to safety that produces a level of safety 
                        equivalent to the level produced by the system 
                        of the Federal Aviation Administration;
                            ``(iv) the aeronautical safety authority of 
                        the country utilizes an open and transparent 
                        notice and comment process in the issuance of 
                        airworthiness directives; and
                            ``(v) the airworthiness directive is 
                        necessary to provide for the safe operation of 
                        the aircraft subject to the directive.
                    ``(B) Alternative approval process.--
                Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Administrator may 
                issue a Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness 
                directive instead of accepting an airworthiness 
                directive otherwise eligible for acceptance under such 
                subparagraph, if the Administrator determines that such 
                issuance is necessary for safety or operational reasons 
                due to the complexity or unique features of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration airworthiness directive or the 
                United States aviation system.
                    ``(C) Alternative means of compliance.--The 
                Administrator may--
                            ``(i) accept an alternative means of 
                        compliance, with respect to an airworthiness 
                        directive accepted under subparagraph (A), that 
                        was approved by the aeronautical safety 
                        authority of the foreign country that issued 
                        the airworthiness directive; or
                            ``(ii) notwithstanding subparagraph (A), 
                        and at the request of any person affected by an 
                        airworthiness directive accepted under such 
                        subparagraph, approve an alternative means of 
                        compliance with respect to the airworthiness 
                        directive.
                    ``(D) Limitation.--The Administrator may not accept 
                an airworthiness directive issued by an aeronautical 
                safety authority of a foreign country if the 
                airworthiness directive addresses matters other than 
                those involving the safe operation of an aircraft.''.

SEC. 253. FAA LEADERSHIP ABROAD.

    (a) In General.--To promote United States aerospace safety 
standards, reduce redundant regulatory activity, and facilitate 
acceptance of FAA design and production approvals abroad, the 
Administrator of the FAA shall--
            (1) attain greater expertise in issues related to dispute 
        resolution, intellectual property, and export control laws to 
        better support FAA certification and other aerospace regulatory 
        activities abroad;
            (2) work with United States companies to more accurately 
        track the amount of time it takes foreign authorities, 
        including bilateral partners, to validate United States type 
        certificated aeronautical products;
            (3) provide assistance to United States companies that have 
        experienced significantly long foreign validation wait times;
            (4) work with foreign authorities, including bilateral 
        partners, to collect and analyze data to determine the 
        timeliness of the acceptance and validation of FAA design and 
        production approvals by foreign authorities and the acceptance 
        and validation of foreign-certified products by the FAA;
            (5) establish appropriate benchmarks and metrics to measure 
        the success of bilateral aviation safety agreements and to 
        reduce the validation time for United States type certificated 
        aeronautical products abroad; and
            (6) work with foreign authorities, including bilateral 
        partners, to improve the timeliness of the acceptance and 
        validation of FAA design and production approvals by foreign 
        authorities and the acceptance and validation of foreign-
        certified products by the FAA.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the FAA shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report that--
            (1) describes the FAA's strategic plan for international 
        engagement;
            (2) describes the structure and responsibilities of all FAA 
        offices that have international responsibilities, including the 
        Aircraft Certification Office, and all the activities conducted 
        by those offices related to certification and production;
            (3) describes current and forecasted staffing and travel 
        needs for the FAA's international engagement activities, 
        including the needs of the Aircraft Certification Office in the 
        current and forecasted budgetary environment;
            (4) provides recommendations, if appropriate, to improve 
        the existing structure and personnel and travel policies 
        supporting the FAA's international engagement activities, 
        including the activities of the Aviation Certification Office, 
        to better support the growth of United States aerospace 
        exports; and
            (5) identifies cost-effective policy initiatives, 
        regulatory initiatives, or legislative initiatives needed to 
        improve and enhance the timely acceptance of United States 
        aerospace products abroad.
    (c) International Travel.--The Administrator of the FAA, or the 
Administrator's designee, may authorize international travel for any 
FAA employee, without the approval of any other person or entity, if 
the Administrator determines that the travel is necessary--
            (1) to promote United States aerospace safety standards; or
            (2) to support expedited acceptance of FAA design and 
        production approvals.

SEC. 254. REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, AND RELATED FEES.

    Section 45305 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``Subject to subsection 
        (b)'' and inserting ``Subject to subsection (c)'';
            (2) by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections 
        (c) and (d), respectively; and
            (3) by inserting after subsection (a) the following:
    ``(b) Certification Services.--Subject to subsection (c), and 
notwithstanding section 45301(a), the Administrator may establish and 
collect a fee from a foreign government or entity for services related 
to certification, regardless of where the services are provided, if the 
fee--
            ``(1) is established and collected in a manner consistent 
        with aviation safety agreements; and
            ``(2) does not exceed the estimated costs of the 
        services.''.

                           TITLE III--SAFETY

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

SEC. 301. FAA TECHNICAL TRAINING.

    (a) E-Learning Training Pilot Program.--Not later than 90 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, in collaboration with the exclusive 
bargaining representatives of covered FAA personnel, shall establish an 
e-learning training pilot program in accordance with the requirements 
of this section.
    (b) Curriculum.--The pilot program shall--
            (1) include a recurrent training curriculum for covered FAA 
        personnel to ensure that the personnel receive instruction on 
        the latest aviation technologies, processes, and procedures;
            (2) focus on providing specialized technical training for 
        covered FAA personnel, as determined necessary by the 
        Administrator;
            (3) include training courses on applicable regulations of 
        the Federal Aviation Administration; and
            (4) consider the efficacy of instructor-led online 
        training.
    (c) Pilot Program Termination.--The pilot program shall terminate 1 
year after the date of establishment of the pilot program.
    (d) E-Learning Training Program.--Upon termination of the pilot 
program, the Administrator shall establish an e-learning training 
program that incorporates lessons learned for covered FAA personnel as 
a result of the pilot program.
    (e) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Covered faa personnel.--The term ``covered FAA 
        personnel'' means airway transportation systems specialists and 
        aviation safety inspectors of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            (2) E-learning training.--The term ``e-learning training'' 
        means learning utilizing electronic technologies to access 
        educational curriculum outside of a traditional classroom.

SEC. 302. SAFETY CRITICAL STAFFING.

    (a) Update of FAA's Safety Critical Staffing Model.--Not later than 
270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration shall update the safety critical 
staffing model of the Administration to determine the number of 
aviation safety inspectors that will be needed to fulfill the safety 
oversight mission of the Administration.
    (b) Audit by DOT Inspector General.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date on 
        which the Administrator has updated the safety critical 
        staffing model under subsection (a), the Inspector General of 
        the Department of Transportation shall conduct an audit of the 
        staffing model.
            (2) Contents.--The audit shall include, at a minimum--
                    (A) a review of the assumptions and methodologies 
                used in devising and implementing the staffing model to 
                assess the adequacy of the staffing model in predicting 
                the number of aviation safety inspectors needed--
                            (i) to properly fulfill the mission of the 
                        Administration; and
                            (ii) to meet the future growth of the 
                        aviation industry; and
                    (B) a determination on whether the staffing model 
                takes into account the Administration's authority to 
                fully utilize designees.
            (3) Report on audit.--
                    (A) Report to secretary.--Not later than 30 days 
                after the date of completion of the audit, the 
                Inspector General shall submit to the Secretary a 
                report on the results of the audit.
                    (B) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 days 
                after the date of receipt of the report, the Secretary 
                shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
                Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
                the Senate a copy of the report, together with, if 
                appropriate, a description of any actions taken or to 
                be taken to address the results of the audit.

SEC. 303. INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS REGARDING TRACKING OF CIVIL AIRCRAFT.

    The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
exercise leadership on creating a global approach to improving aircraft 
tracking by working with--
            (1) foreign counterparts of the Administrator in the 
        International Civil Aviation Organization and its subsidiary 
        organizations;
            (2) other international organizations and fora; and
            (3) the private sector.

SEC. 304. AIRCRAFT DATA ACCESS AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS.

    (a) Assessment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall initiate an assessment of aircraft data access and retrieval 
systems for part 121 air carrier aircraft that are used in extended 
overwater operations to--
            (1) determine if the systems provide improved access and 
        retrieval of aircraft data and cockpit voice recordings in the 
        event of an aircraft accident; and
            (2) assess the cost effectiveness of each system assessed.
    (b) Systems To Be Examined.--The systems to be examined under this 
section shall include, at a minimum--
            (1) automatic deployable flight recorders;
            (2) emergency locator transmitters; and
            (3) satellite-based solutions.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of initiation of 
the assessment, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the assessment.
    (d) Part 121 Air Carrier Defined.--In this section, the term ``part 
121 air carrier'' means an air carrier that holds a certificate issued 
under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 305. ADVANCED COCKPIT DISPLAYS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall initiate a review of heads-up display systems, 
heads-down display systems employing synthetic vision systems, and 
enhanced vision systems (in this section referred to as ``HUD 
systems'', ``SVS'', and ``EVS'', respectively).
    (b) Contents.--The review shall--
            (1) evaluate the impacts of single- and dual-installed HUD 
        systems, SVS, and EVS on the safety and efficiency of aircraft 
        operations within the national airspace system; and
            (2) review a sufficient quantity of commercial aviation 
        accidents or incidents in order to evaluate if HUD systems, 
        SVS, and EVS would have produced a better outcome in that 
        accident or incident.
    (c) Consultation.--In conducting the review, the Administrator 
shall consult with aviation manufacturers, representatives of pilot 
groups, aviation safety organizations, and any government agencies the 
Administrator considers appropriate.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report containing the results of the review, the actions the 
Administrator plans to take with respect to the systems reviewed, and 
the associated timeline for such actions.

SEC. 306. MARKING OF TOWERS.

    Section 2110 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 
(49 U.S.C. 44718 note) is amended--
            (1) by striking subsections (a) through (c) and inserting 
        the following:
    ``(a) Application.--
            ``(1) In general.--Except as provided by paragraph (2), not 
        later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the FAA 
        Reauthorization Act of 2018 or the availability of the database 
        developed by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration pursuant to subsection (c), whichever is later, 
        all covered towers shall be either--
                    ``(A) clearly marked consistent with applicable 
                guidance in the advisory circular of the Federal 
                Aviation Administration issued December 4, 2015 (AC 70/
                7460-IL); or
                    ``(B) included in the database described in 
                subsection (c).
            ``(2) Meteorological evaluation tower.--A covered tower 
        that is a meteorological evaluation tower shall be subject to 
        the requirements of paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B).'';
            (2) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections 
        (b) and (c), respectively;
            (3) in subsection (b)(1)(A) (as so redesignated)--
                    (A) in clause (i)(I) by striking ``self-standing 
                or'' and inserting ``a meteorological evaluation tower 
                or tower''; and
                    (B) in clause (ii)--
                            (i) in subclause (IV) by striking ``or'' at 
                        the end;
                            (ii) in subclause (V) by striking the 
                        period at the end and inserting a semicolon; 
                        and
                            (iii) by adding at the end the following:
                                    ``(VI) is located within the right-
                                of-way of a rail carrier, including 
                                within the boundaries of a rail yard, 
                                and is used for a railroad purpose;
                                    ``(VII) is determined by the 
                                Administrator to pose no hazard to air 
                                navigation; or
                                    ``(VIII) has already mitigated any 
                                hazard to aviation safety in accordance 
                                with Federal Aviation Administration 
                                guidance or as otherwise approved by 
                                the Administrator.''; and
            (4) in subsection (c) (as so redesignated)--
                    (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the 
                following:
            ``(1) develop a database that contains the location and 
        height of each covered tower that, pursuant to subsection (a), 
        the owner or operator of such tower elects not to mark, except 
        that meteorological evaluation towers shall be marked and 
        contained in the database;'';
                    (B) in paragraph (3) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                    (C) in paragraph (4) by striking the period at the 
                end and inserting a semicolon; and
                    (D) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(5) ensure that the tower information in the database is 
        de-identified and that the information only includes the 
        location and height of covered towers; and
            ``(6) make the database available for use not later than 1 
        year after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act 
        of 2018.''.

SEC. 307. CABIN EVACUATION.

    (a) Review.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall review--
            (1) evacuation certification of transport-category aircraft 
        used in air transportation, with regard to--
                    (A) emergency conditions, including impacts into 
                water;
                    (B) crew procedures used for evacuations under 
                actual emergency conditions; and
                    (C) any relevant changes to passenger demographics 
                and legal requirements (including the Americans with 
                Disabilities Act of 1990) that affect emergency 
                evacuations; and
            (2) recent accidents and incidents where passengers 
        evacuated such aircraft.
    (b) Consultation; Review of Data.--In conducting the review, the 
Administrator shall--
            (1) consult with the National Transportation Safety Board, 
        transport-category aircraft manufacturers, air carriers, and 
        other relevant experts and Federal agencies, including groups 
        representing passengers, airline crewmembers, maintenance 
        employees, and emergency responders; and
            (2) review relevant data with respect to evacuation 
        certification of transport-category aircraft.
    (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 
and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate a report on the results of the review and related 
recommendations, if any, including any recommendations for revisions to 
the assumptions and methods used for assessing evacuation certification 
of transport-category aircraft.

SEC. 308. ODA STAFFING AND OVERSIGHT.

    (a) Report to Congress.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
Administration's progress with respect to--
            (1) determining what additional model inputs and labor 
        distribution codes are needed to identify ODA oversight 
        staffing needs;
            (2) developing and implementing system-based evaluation 
        criteria and risk-based tools to aid ODA team members in 
        targeting their oversight activities;
            (3) developing agreements and processes for sharing 
        resources to ensure adequate oversight of ODA personnel 
        performing certification and inspection work at supplier and 
        company facilities; and
            (4) ensuring full utilization of ODA authority.
    (b) ODA Defined.--In this section, the term ``ODA'' has the meaning 
given that term in section 44736 of title 49, United States Code, as 
added by this Act.

SEC. 309. EMERGENCY MEDICAL EQUIPMENT ON PASSENGER AIRCRAFT.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall evaluate and revise, as appropriate, regulations in part 121 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, regarding emergency medical 
equipment, including the contents of first-aid kits, applicable to all 
certificate holders operating passenger aircraft under that part.
    (b) Consideration.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall consider whether the minimum contents of approved 
emergency medical kits, including approved first-aid kits, include 
appropriate medications and equipment to meet the emergency medical 
needs of children and pregnant women.

SEC. 310. HIMS PROGRAM.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct 
a human intervention motivation study (HIMS) program for flight 
crewmembers employed by commercial air carriers operating in United 
States airspace.

SEC. 311. ACCEPTANCE OF VOLUNTARILY PROVIDED SAFETY INFORMATION.

    (a) In General.--There shall be a presumption that an individual's 
voluntary disclosure of an operational or maintenance issue related to 
aviation safety under an aviation safety action program meets the 
criteria for acceptance as a valid disclosure under such program.
    (b) Disclaimer Required.--Any dissemination of a disclosure that 
was submitted and accepted under an aviation safety action program 
pursuant to the presumption under subsection (a), but that has not 
undergone review by an event review committee, shall be accompanied by 
a disclaimer stating that the disclosure--
            (1) has not been reviewed by an event review committee 
        tasked with reviewing such disclosures; and
            (2) may subsequently be determined to be ineligible for 
        inclusion in the aviation safety action program.
    (c) Rejection of Disclosure.--A disclosure described under 
subsection (a) shall be rejected from an aviation safety action program 
if, after a review of the disclosure, an event review committee tasked 
with reviewing such disclosures determines that the disclosure fails to 
meet the criteria for acceptance under such program.
    (d) Aviation Safety Action Program Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``aviation safety action program'' means a program established in 
accordance with Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 120-
66B, issued November 15, 2002 (including any similar successor advisory 
circular), to allow an individual to voluntarily disclose operational 
or maintenance issues related to aviation safety.

SEC. 312. FLIGHT ATTENDANT DUTY PERIOD LIMITATIONS AND REST 
              REQUIREMENTS.

    (a) Modification of Final Rule.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
        modify the final rule of the Federal Aviation Administration 
        published in the Federal Register on August 19, 1994 (59 Fed. 
        Reg. 42974; relating to flight attendant duty period 
        limitations and rest requirements) in accordance with the 
        requirements of this subsection.
            (2) Contents.--The final rule, as modified under paragraph 
        (1), shall ensure that--
                    (A) a flight attendant scheduled to a duty period 
                of 14 hours or less is given a scheduled rest period of 
                at least 10 consecutive hours; and
                    (B) the rest period is not reduced under any 
                circumstances.
    (b) Fatigue Risk Management Plan.--
            (1) Submission of plan by part 121 air carriers.--Not later 
        than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, each air 
        carrier operating under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations (in this section referred to as a ``part 121 air 
        carrier''), shall submit to the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration for review and acceptance a fatigue 
        risk management plan for the carrier's flight attendants.
            (2) Contents of plan.--A fatigue risk management plan 
        submitted by a part 121 air carrier under paragraph (1) shall 
        include the following:
                    (A) Current flight time and duty period 
                limitations.
                    (B) A rest scheme consistent with such limitations 
                that enables the management of flight attendant 
                fatigue, including annual training to increase 
                awareness of--
                            (i) fatigue;
                            (ii) the effects of fatigue on flight 
                        attendants; and
                            (iii) fatigue countermeasures.
                    (C) Development and use of a methodology that 
                continually assesses the effectiveness of 
                implementation of the plan, including the ability of 
                the plan--
                            (i) to improve alertness; and
                            (ii) to mitigate performance errors.
            (3) Review.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall review and 
        accept or reject each fatigue risk management plan submitted 
        under this subsection. If the Administrator rejects a plan, the 
        Administrator shall provide suggested modifications for 
        resubmission of the plan.
            (4) Plan updates.--
                    (A) In general.--A part 121 air carrier shall 
                update its fatigue risk management plan under paragraph 
                (1) every 2 years and submit the update to the 
                Administrator for review and acceptance.
                    (B) Review.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
                of submission of a plan update under subparagraph (A), 
                the Administrator shall review and accept or reject the 
                update. If the Administrator rejects an update, the 
                Administrator shall provide suggested modifications for 
                resubmission of the update.
            (5) Compliance.--A part 121 air carrier shall comply with 
        the fatigue risk management plan of the air carrier that is 
        accepted by the Administrator under this subsection.
            (6) Civil penalties.--A violation of this subsection by a 
        part 121 air carrier shall be treated as a violation of chapter 
        447 of title 49, United States Code, for purposes of the 
        application of civil penalties under chapter 463 of that title.

SEC. 313. SECONDARY COCKPIT BARRIERS.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue an 
order requiring the installation of a secondary cockpit barrier on each 
aircraft that is manufactured for delivery to a passenger air carrier 
in the United States operating under the provisions of part 121 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 314. AVIATION MAINTENANCE INDUSTRY TECHNICAL WORKFORCE.

    (a) Workforce Readiness.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall coordinate with government, educational 
institutions, labor organizations representing aviation maintenance 
workers, and businesses to develop guidance or model curricula for 
aviation maintenance technician schools certificated under part 147 of 
title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations to ensure workforce 
readiness for industry needs, including curricula related to training 
in avionics, troubleshooting, and other areas of industry needs.
            (1) Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
        this Act, the Administrator shall publish the guidance or model 
        curricula.
            (2) The Administrator shall publish updates to the guidance 
        or model curricula at least once every 2 years from the date of 
        initial publication.
    (b) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall 
conduct a study on technical workers in the aviation maintenance 
industry.
    (c) Contents.--In conducting the study, the Comptroller General 
shall--
            (1) analyze the current Standard Occupational 
        Classification system with regard to the aviation profession, 
        particularly technical workers in the aviation maintenance 
        industry;
            (2) analyze how changes to the Federal employment 
        classification of aviation maintenance industry workers might 
        affect government data on unemployment rates and wages;
            (3) analyze how changes to the Federal employment 
        classification of aviation maintenance industry workers might 
        affect projections for future aviation maintenance industry 
        workforce needs and project technical worker shortfalls;
            (4) analyze the impact of Federal regulation, including 
        Federal Aviation Administration oversight of certification, 
        testing, and education programs, on employment of technical 
        workers in the aviation maintenance industry;
            (5) develop recommendations on how Federal Aviation 
        Administration regulations and policies could be improved to 
        address aviation maintenance industry needs for technical 
        workers;
            (6) develop recommendations for better coordinating actions 
        by government, educational institutions, and businesses to 
        support workforce growth in the aviation maintenance industry; 
        and
            (7) develop recommendations for addressing the needs for 
        government funding, private investment, equipment for training 
        purposes, and other resources necessary to strengthen existing 
        training programs or develop new training programs to support 
        workforce growth in the aviation industry.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study.
    (e) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Aviation maintenance industry.--The term ``aviation 
        maintenance industry'' means repair stations certificated under 
        part 145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
            (2) Technical worker.--The term ``technical worker'' means 
        an individual authorized under part 43 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, to maintain, rebuild, alter, or perform 
        preventive maintenance on an aircraft, airframe, aircraft 
        engine, propeller, appliance, or component part or employed by 
        an entity so authorized to perform such a function.

SEC. 315. CRITICAL AIRFIELD MARKINGS.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a 
request for proposal for a study that includes--
            (1) an independent, third party study to assess the 
        durability of Type III and Type I glass beads applied to 
        critical markings over a 2-year period at not fewer than 2 
        primary airports in varying weather conditions to measure the 
        retroreflectivity levels of such markings on a quarterly basis; 
        and
            (2) a study at 2 other airports carried out by applying 
        Type III beads on half of the centerline and Type I beads to 
        the other half and providing for assessments from pilots 
        through surveys administered by a third party as to the 
        visibility and performance of the Type III glass beads as 
        compared to the Type I glass beads over a 1-year period.

SEC. 316. REGULATORY REFORM.

    Section 106(p)(5) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
inserting ``or aerospace'' after ``aviation''.

SEC. 317. FAA AND NTSB REVIEW OF GENERAL AVIATION SAFETY.

    (a) Study Required.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration, in coordination with the Chairman of the National 
Transportation Safety Board, shall initiate a study of general aviation 
safety.
    (b) Study Contents.--The study required under subsection (a) shall 
include--
            (1) a review of all general aviation accidents since 2000, 
        including a review of--
                    (A) the number of such accidents;
                    (B) the number of injuries and fatalities, 
                including with respect to both occupants of aircraft 
                and individuals on the ground, as a result of such 
                accidents;
                    (C) the number of such accidents investigated by 
                the National Transportation Safety Board;
                    (D) the number of such accidents investigated by 
                the Federal Aviation Administration; and
                    (E) a summary of the factual findings and probable 
                cause determinations with respect to such accidents;
            (2) an assessment of the most common probable cause 
        determinations issued for general aviation accidents since 
        2000;
            (3) an assessment of the most common facts analyzed by the 
        Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation 
        Safety Board in the course of investigations of general 
        aviation accidents since 2000, including operational details;
            (4) a review of the safety recommendations of the National 
        Transportation Safety Board related to general aviation 
        accidents since 2000;
            (5) an assessment of the responses of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration and the general aviation community to the safety 
        recommendations of the National Transportation Safety Board 
        related to general aviation accidents since 2000;
            (6) an assessment of the most common general aviation 
        safety issues;
            (7) a review of the total costs to the Federal Government 
        to conduct investigations of general aviation accidents over 
        the last 10 years; and
            (8) other matters the Administrator or the Chairman 
        considers appropriate.
    (c) Recommendations and Actions To Address General Aviation 
Safety.--Based on the results of the study required under subsection 
(a), the Administrator, in consultation with the Chairman, shall make 
such recommendations, including with respect to regulations and 
enforcement activities, as the Administrator considers necessary to--
            (1) address general aviation safety issues identified under 
        the study;
            (2) protect persons and property on the ground; and
            (3) improve the safety of general aviation operators in the 
        United States.
    (d) Authority.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Administrator shall have the authority to undertake actions to address 
the recommendations made under subsection (c).
    (e) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study required under subsection (a), 
including the recommendations described in subsection (c).
    (f) General Aviation Defined.--In this section, the term ``general 
aviation'' means aircraft operation for personal, recreational, or 
other noncommercial purposes.

SEC. 318. CALL TO ACTION AIRLINE ENGINE SAFETY REVIEW.

    (a) Call to Action Airline Engine Safety Review.--Not later than 90 
days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall initiate a Call to Action safety 
review on airline engine safety in order to bring stakeholders together 
to share best practices and implement actions to address airline engine 
safety.
    (b) Contents.--The Call to Action safety review required pursuant 
to subsection (a) shall include--
            (1) a review of Administration regulations, guidance, and 
        directives related to airline engines during design and 
        production, including the oversight of those processes;
            (2) a review of Administration regulations, guidance, and 
        directives related to airline engine operation and maintenance 
        and the oversight of those processes;
            (3) a review of reportable accidents and incidents 
        involving airline engines during calendar years 2014 through 
        2018, including any identified contributing factors to the 
        reportable accident or incident; and
            (4) a process for stakeholders, including inspectors, 
        manufacturers, maintenance providers, airlines, and aviation 
        safety experts, to provide feedback and share best practices.
    (c) Report and Recommendations.--Not later than 90 days after the 
conclusion of the Call to Action safety review pursuant to subsection 
(a), the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
results of the review and any recommendations for actions or best 
practices to improve airline engine safety.

SEC. 319. SPECIAL RULE FOR CERTAIN AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS.

    (a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, as 
amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``Sec. 44737. Special rule for certain aircraft operations
    ``(a) In General.--The operator of an aircraft with a special 
airworthiness certificate in the experimental category may--
            ``(1) operate the aircraft for the purpose of conducting a 
        commercial space transportation support flight; and
            ``(2) conduct such flight under such certificate carrying 
        persons or property for compensation or hire notwithstanding 
        any rule or term of a certificate issued by the Administrator 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration that would prohibit 
        flight for compensation or hire.
    ``(b) Limited Applicability.--Subsection (a) shall apply only to a 
commercial space transportation support flight that satisfies each of 
the following:
            ``(1) The aircraft conducting the commercial space 
        transportation support flight--
                    ``(A) takes flight and lands at a single site that 
                is licensed for operation under chapter 509 of title 
                51; and
                    ``(B) is used only to simulate space flight 
                conditions in support of--
                            ``(i) training for potential space flight 
                        participants or crew (as those terms are 
                        defined in chapter 509 of title 51); or
                            ``(ii) the testing of hardware to be used 
                        in space flight.
            ``(2) The operator of the commercial space transportation 
        support flight--
                    ``(A) informs, in writing, any individual serving 
                as crew of the aircraft that the United States 
                Government has not certified the aircraft as safe for 
                carrying crew or passengers prior to executing any 
                contract or other arrangement to employ that individual 
                (or, in the case of an individual already employed as 
                of the date of enactment of this section, prior to any 
                commercial space transportation support flight in which 
                the individual will participate as crew);
                    ``(B) prior to receiving any compensation for 
                carrying any passengers on the aircraft--
                            ``(i) informs, in writing, the passengers 
                        about the risks of the aircraft and commercial 
                        space transportation support flight, including 
                        the safety record for the operator's fleet of 
                        similar vehicle types and information 
                        sufficient to adequately describe the safety 
                        record for the vehicle type regardless of 
                        operator; and
                            ``(ii) informs, in writing, any passenger 
                        that the United States Government has not 
                        certified the aircraft as safe for carrying 
                        crew or passengers;
                    ``(C) provides any passenger an opportunity to ask 
                questions orally to acquire a better understanding of 
                the safety record of the aircraft and commercial space 
                transportation support flight; and
                    ``(D) obtains written informed consent from any 
                individual serving as crew and all passengers of the 
                commercial space transportation support flight that--
                            ``(i) identifies the specific aircraft the 
                        consent covers;
                            ``(ii) states that the individual 
                        understands the risk and that the presence of 
                        the individual on board the aircraft is 
                        voluntary; and
                            ``(iii) is signed and dated by the 
                        individual.
            ``(3) When the aircraft is also a launch vehicle, reentry 
        vehicle, or component of a launch or reentry vehicle, the 
        operator of the aircraft holds a license or permit issued under 
        chapter 509 of title 51 for that vehicle or vehicle component.
            ``(4) Any other requirements that the Administrator may 
        prescribe to permit a commercial space transportation support 
        flight under this section.
    ``(c) Rules of Construction.--
            ``(1) Section 44711(a)(1) shall not apply to a person 
        conducting a commercial space transportation support flight 
        under this section only to the extent that a term of the 
        experimental certificate under which the person is operating 
        the aircraft prohibits the carriage of persons or property for 
        compensation or hire.
            ``(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit 
        the authority of the Administrator to exempt a person from a 
        regulatory prohibition on the carriage of persons or property 
        for compensation or hire subject to terms and conditions other 
        than those described in this section.''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, 
United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:

``44737. Special rule for certain aircraft operations.''.

SEC. 320. EXIT ROWS.

    (a) Review.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall conduct a review of current safety procedures 
regarding unoccupied exit rows on a covered aircraft in passenger air 
transportation during all stages of flight.
    (b) Consultation.--In carrying out the review, the Administrator 
shall consult with air carriers, aviation manufacturers, and labor 
stakeholders.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the review.
    (d) Covered Aircraft Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
aircraft'' means an aircraft operating under part 121 of title 14, Code 
of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 321. COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORT ON FAA ENFORCEMENT POLICY.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Comptroller General of the United States shall complete a study, and 
report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the United States Senate on the results thereof, on 
the effectiveness of Order 8000.373, Federal Aviation Administration 
Compliance Philosophy, announced on June 26, 2015. Such study shall 
include information about--
            (1) whether reports of safety incidents increased following 
        the order;
            (2) whether reduced enforcement penalties increased the 
        overall number of safety incidents that occurred; and
            (3) whether FAA enforcement staff registered complaints 
        about reduced enforcement reducing compliance with safety 
        regulations.

                 Subtitle B--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

SEC. 331. DEFINITIONS.

    Except as otherwise provided, the definitions contained in section 
45501 of title 49, United States Code (as added by this Act), shall 
apply to this subtitle.

SEC. 332. CODIFICATION OF EXISTING LAW; ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS.

    (a) In General.--Subtitle VII of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by inserting after chapter 453 the following:

                ``CHAPTER 455--UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

``45501. Definitions.
``45502. Integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into national 
                            airspace system.
``45503. Risk-based permitting of unmanned aircraft systems.
``45504. Public unmanned aircraft systems.
``45505. Special rules for certain unmanned aircraft systems.
``45506. Certification of new air navigation facilities for unmanned 
                            aircraft and other aircraft.
``45507. Special rules for certain UTM and low-altitude CNS.
``45508. Operation of small unmanned aircraft.
``45509. Exception for limited recreational operations of unmanned 
                            aircraft.
``45510. Carriage of property for compensation or hire.
``45511. Micro UAS operations.
``Sec. 45501. Definitions
    ``In this chapter, the following definitions apply:
            ``(1) Aerial data collection.--The term `aerial data 
        collection' means the gathering of data by a device aboard an 
        unmanned aircraft during flight, including imagery, sensing, 
        and measurement by such device.
            ``(2) Arctic.--The term `Arctic' means the United States 
        zone of the Chukchi Sea, Beaufort Sea, and Bering Sea north of 
        the Aleutian chain.
            ``(3) Certificate of waiver; certificate of 
        authorization.--The terms `certificate of waiver' and 
        `certificate of authorization' mean a Federal Aviation 
        Administration grant of approval for a specific flight 
        operation.
            ``(4) CNS.--The term `CNS' means a communication, 
        navigation, or surveillance system or service.
            ``(5) Model aircraft.--the term `model aircraft' means an 
        unmanned aircraft that is--
                    ``(A) capable of sustained flight in the 
                atmosphere;
                    ``(B) flown within visual line of sight of the 
                person operating the aircraft; and
                    ``(C) flown for hobby or recreational purposes.
            ``(6) Permanent areas.--The term `permanent areas' means 
        areas on land or water that provide for launch, recovery, and 
        operation of small unmanned aircraft.
            ``(7) Public unmanned aircraft system.--The term `public 
        unmanned aircraft system' means an unmanned aircraft system 
        that meets the qualifications and conditions required for 
        operation of a public aircraft (as defined in section 
        40102(a)).
            ``(8) Sense-and-avoid capability.--The term `sense-and-
        avoid capability' means the capability of an unmanned aircraft 
        to remain a safe distance from and to avoid collisions with 
        other airborne aircraft.
            ``(9) Small unmanned aircraft.--The term `small unmanned 
        aircraft' means an unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 
        pounds, including everything that is on board or otherwise 
        attached to the aircraft.
            ``(10) Unmanned aircraft.--The term `unmanned aircraft' 
        means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of 
        direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
            ``(11) Unmanned aircraft system.--The term `unmanned 
        aircraft system' means an unmanned aircraft and associated 
        elements (including communication links and the components that 
        control the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the pilot 
        in command to operate safely and efficiently in the national 
        airspace system.
            ``(12) UTM.--The term `UTM' means an unmanned aircraft 
        traffic management system or service.
``Sec. 45502. Integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into 
              national airspace system
    ``(a) Required Planning for Integration.--
            ``(1) Comprehensive plan.--Not later than November 10, 
        2012, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with 
        representatives of the aviation industry, Federal agencies that 
        employ unmanned aircraft systems technology in the national 
        airspace system, and the unmanned aircraft systems industry, 
        shall develop a comprehensive plan to safely accelerate the 
        integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system.
            ``(2) Contents of plan.--The plan required under paragraph 
        (1) shall contain, at a minimum, recommendations or projections 
        on--
                    ``(A) the rulemaking to be conducted under 
                subsection (b), with specific recommendations on how 
                the rulemaking will--
                            ``(i) define the acceptable standards for 
                        operation and certification of civil unmanned 
                        aircraft systems;
                            ``(ii) ensure that any civil unmanned 
                        aircraft system includes a sense-and-avoid 
                        capability; and
                            ``(iii) establish standards and 
                        requirements for the operator and pilot of a 
                        civil unmanned aircraft system, including 
                        standards and requirements for registration and 
                        licensing;
                    ``(B) the best methods to enhance the technologies 
                and subsystems necessary to achieve the safe and 
                routine operation of civil unmanned aircraft systems in 
                the national airspace system;
                    ``(C) a phased-in approach to the integration of 
                civil unmanned aircraft systems into the national 
                airspace system;
                    ``(D) a timeline for the phased-in approach 
                described under subparagraph (C);
                    ``(E) creation of a safe airspace designation for 
                cooperative manned and unmanned flight operations in 
                the national airspace system;
                    ``(F) establishment of a process to develop 
                certification, flight standards, and air traffic 
                requirements for civil unmanned aircraft systems at 
                test ranges where such systems are subject to testing;
                    ``(G) the best methods to ensure the safe operation 
                of civil unmanned aircraft systems and public unmanned 
                aircraft systems simultaneously in the national 
                airspace system; and
                    ``(H) incorporation of the plan into the annual 
                NextGen Implementation Plan document (or any successor 
                document) of the Federal Aviation Administration.
            ``(3) Deadline.--The plan required under paragraph (1) 
        shall provide for the safe integration of civil unmanned 
        aircraft systems into the national airspace system as soon as 
        practicable, but not later than September 30, 2015.
            ``(4) Report to congress.--Not later than February 14, 
        2013, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a copy of the plan 
        required under paragraph (1).
            ``(5) Roadmap.--Not later than February 14, 2013, the 
        Secretary shall approve and make available in print and on the 
        Administration's internet website a 5-year roadmap for the 
        introduction of civil unmanned aircraft systems into the 
        national airspace system, as coordinated by the Unmanned 
        Aircraft Program Office of the Administration. The Secretary 
        shall update, in coordination with the Administrator of the 
        National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and 
        relevant stakeholders, including those in industry and 
        academia, the roadmap annually. The roadmap shall include, at a 
        minimum--
                    ``(A) cost estimates, planned schedules, and 
                performance benchmarks, including specific tasks, 
                milestones, and timelines, for unmanned aircraft 
                systems integration into the national airspace system, 
                including an identification of--
                            ``(i) the role of the unmanned aircraft 
                        systems test ranges established under 
                        subsection (c) and the Unmanned Aircraft 
                        Systems Center of Excellence;
                            ``(ii) performance objectives for unmanned 
                        aircraft systems that operate in the national 
                        airspace system; and
                            ``(iii) research and development priorities 
                        for tools that could assist air traffic 
                        controllers as unmanned aircraft systems are 
                        integrated into the national airspace system, 
                        as appropriate;
                    ``(B) a description of how the Administration plans 
                to use research and development, including research and 
                development conducted through NASA's Unmanned Aircraft 
                Systems Traffic Management initiatives, to accommodate, 
                integrate, and provide for the evolution of unmanned 
                aircraft systems in the national airspace system;
                    ``(C) an assessment of critical performance 
                abilities necessary to integrate unmanned aircraft 
                systems into the national airspace system, and how 
                these performance abilities can be demonstrated; and
                    ``(D) an update on the advancement of technologies 
                needed to integrate unmanned aircraft systems into the 
                national airspace system, including decisionmaking by 
                adaptive systems, such as sense-and-avoid capabilities 
                and cyber physical systems security.
    ``(b) Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after the date on which 
the plan required under subsection (a)(1) is submitted to Congress 
under subsection (a)(4), the Secretary shall publish in the Federal 
Register--
            ``(1) a final rule on small unmanned aircraft systems that 
        will allow for civil operation of such systems in the national 
        airspace system, to the extent the systems do not meet the 
        requirements for expedited operational authorization under 
        section 45508;
            ``(2) a notice of proposed rulemaking to implement the 
        recommendations of the plan required under subsection (a)(1), 
        with the final rule to be published not later than 16 months 
        after the date of publication of the notice; and
            ``(3) an update to the Administration's most recent policy 
        statement on unmanned aircraft systems, contained in Docket No. 
        FAA-2006-25714.
    ``(c) Expanding Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Arctic.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than August 12, 2012, the 
        Secretary shall develop a plan and initiate a process to work 
        with relevant Federal agencies and national and international 
        communities to designate permanent areas in the Arctic where 
        small unmanned aircraft may operate 24 hours per day for 
        research and commercial purposes. The plan for operations in 
        these permanent areas shall include the development of 
        processes to facilitate the safe operation of unmanned aircraft 
        beyond line of sight. Such areas shall enable over-water 
        flights from the surface to at least 2,000 feet in altitude, 
        with ingress and egress routes from selected coastal launch 
        sites.
            ``(2) Agreements.--To implement the plan under paragraph 
        (1), the Secretary may enter into an agreement with relevant 
        national and international communities.
            ``(3) Aircraft approval.--Not later than 1 year after the 
        entry into force of an agreement necessary to effectuate the 
        purposes of this subsection, the Secretary shall work with 
        relevant national and international communities to establish 
        and implement a process, or may apply an applicable process 
        already established, for approving the use of unmanned aircraft 
        in the designated permanent areas in the Arctic without regard 
        to whether an unmanned aircraft is used as a public aircraft, a 
        civil aircraft, or a model aircraft.
``Sec. 45503. Risk-based permitting of unmanned aircraft systems
    ``(a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall establish procedures for issuing permits under 
this section with respect to certain unmanned aircraft systems and 
operations thereof.
    ``(b) Permitting Standards.--Upon the submission of an application 
in accordance with subsection (d), the Administrator shall issue a 
permit with respect to the proposed operation of an unmanned aircraft 
system if the Administrator determines that the unmanned aircraft 
system and the proposed operation achieve a level of safety that is 
equivalent to--
            ``(1) other unmanned aircraft systems and operations 
        permitted under regulation, exemption, or other authority 
        granted by the Administrator; or
            ``(2) any other aircraft operation approved by the 
        Administrator with similar risk characteristics or profiles.
    ``(c) Safety Criteria for Consideration.--In determining whether a 
proposed operation meets the standards described in subsection (b), the 
Administrator shall consider the following safety criteria:
            ``(1) The kinetic energy of the unmanned aircraft system.
            ``(2) The location of the proposed operation, including the 
        proximity to--
                    ``(A) structures;
                    ``(B) congested areas;
                    ``(C) special-use airspace; and
                    ``(D) persons on the ground.
            ``(3) The nature of the operation, including any proposed 
        risk mitigation.
            ``(4) Any known hazard of the proposed operation and the 
        severity and likelihood of such hazard.
            ``(5) Any known failure modes of the unmanned aircraft 
        system, failure mode effects and criticality, and any 
        mitigating features or capabilities.
            ``(6) The operational history of relevant technologies, if 
        available.
            ``(7) Any history of civil penalties or certificate actions 
        by the Administrator against the applicant seeking the permit.
            ``(8) Any other safety criteria the Administrator considers 
        appropriate.
    ``(d) Application.--An application under this section shall include 
evidence that the unmanned aircraft system and the proposed operation 
thereof meet the standards described in subsection (b) based on the 
criteria described in subsection (c).
    ``(e) Scope of Permit.--A permit issued under this section shall--
            ``(1) be valid for 5 years;
            ``(2) constitute approval of both the airworthiness of the 
        unmanned aircraft system and the proposed operation of such 
        system;
            ``(3) be renewable for additional 5-year periods; and
            ``(4) contain any terms necessary to ensure aviation 
        safety.
    ``(f) Notice.--Not later than 120 days after the Administrator 
receives a complete application under subsection (d), the Administrator 
shall provide the applicant written notice of a decision to approve or 
disapprove of the application or to request a modification of the 
application that is necessary for approval of the application.
    ``(g) Permitting Process.--The Administrator shall issue a permit 
under this section without regard to subsections (b) through (d) of 
section 553 of title 5 and chapter 35 of title 44 if the Administrator 
determines that the operation permitted will not occur near a congested 
area.
    ``(h) Exemption From Certain Requirements.--To the extent 
consistent with aviation safety, the Administrator may exempt 
applicants under this section from paragraphs (1) through (3) of 
section 44711(a).
    ``(i) Withdrawal.--The Administrator may, at any time, modify or 
withdraw a permit issued under this section.
    ``(j) Applicability.--This section shall not apply to small 
unmanned aircraft systems and operations authorized by the final rule 
on small unmanned aircraft systems issued pursuant to section 
45502(b)(1).
    ``(k) Expedited Review.--The Administrator shall review and act 
upon applications under this section on an expedited basis for unmanned 
aircraft systems and operations thereof to be used primarily in, or 
primarily in direct support of, emergency preparedness, emergency 
response, or disaster recovery efforts, including efforts in connection 
with natural disasters and severe weather events.
``Sec. 45504. Public unmanned aircraft systems
    ``(a) Guidance.--Not later than November 10, 2012, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall issue guidance regarding the operation of public 
unmanned aircraft systems to--
            ``(1) expedite the issuance of a certificate of 
        authorization process;
            ``(2) provide for a collaborative process with public 
        agencies to allow for an incremental expansion of access to the 
        national airspace system as technology matures and the 
        necessary safety analysis and data become available, and until 
        standards are completed and technology issues are resolved;
            ``(3) facilitate the capability of public agencies to 
        develop and use test ranges, subject to operating restrictions 
        required by the Federal Aviation Administration, to test and 
        operate unmanned aircraft systems; and
            ``(4) provide guidance on a public entity's responsibility 
        when operating an unmanned aircraft without a civil 
        airworthiness certificate issued by the Administration.
    ``(b) Standards for Operation and Certification.--Not later than 
December 31, 2015, the Administrator shall develop and implement 
operational and certification requirements for the operation of public 
unmanned aircraft systems in the national airspace system.
    ``(c) Agreements With Government Agencies.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than May 14, 2012, the 
        Secretary shall enter into agreements with appropriate 
        government agencies to simplify the process for issuing 
        certificates of waiver or authorization with respect to 
        applications seeking authorization to operate public unmanned 
        aircraft systems in the national airspace system.
            ``(2) Contents.--The agreements shall--
                    ``(A) with respect to an application described in 
                paragraph (1)--
                            ``(i) provide for an expedited review of 
                        the application;
                            ``(ii) require a decision by the 
                        Administrator on approval or disapproval within 
                        60 business days of the date of submission of 
                        the application; and
                            ``(iii) allow for an expedited appeal if 
                        the application is disapproved;
                    ``(B) allow for a one-time approval of similar 
                operations carried out during a fixed period of time; 
                and
                    ``(C) allow a government public safety agency to 
                operate unmanned aircraft weighing 4.4 pounds or less, 
                if operated--
                            ``(i) within the line of sight of the 
                        operator;
                            ``(ii) less than 400 feet above the ground;
                            ``(iii) during daylight conditions;
                            ``(iv) within Class G airspace; and
                            ``(v) outside of 5 statute miles from any 
                        airport, heliport, seaplane base, spaceport, or 
                        other location with aviation activities.
``Sec. 45505. Special rules for certain unmanned aircraft systems
    ``(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this 
subtitle, and not later than August 12, 2012, the Secretary of 
Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may 
operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the 
plan and rulemaking required by section 45502 or the guidance required 
under section 45504.
    ``(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the 
determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a 
minimum--
            ``(1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as 
        a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, 
        proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within 
        visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the 
        national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to 
        national security; and
            ``(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of 
        authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 
        44704 is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft 
        systems identified under paragraph (1).
    ``(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines 
under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate 
safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish 
requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the 
national airspace system.
``Sec. 45506. Certification of new air navigation facilities for 
              unmanned aircraft and other aircraft
    ``(a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, and notwithstanding section 2208 of the FAA 
Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note), the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall initiate a 
rulemaking to establish procedures for issuing air navigation facility 
certificates pursuant to section 44702 to operators of--
            ``(1) UTM for unmanned aircraft operations that occur 
        primarily or exclusively in airspace 400 feet above ground 
        level and below; and
            ``(2) low-altitude CNS for aircraft operations that occur 
        primarily or exclusively in airspace 400 feet above ground 
        level and below.
    ``(b) Minimum Requirements.--In issuing a final rule pursuant to 
subsection (a), the Administrator, at a minimum, shall provide for the 
following:
            ``(1) Certification standards.--The Administrator shall 
        issue an air navigation facility certificate under the final 
        rule if the Administrator determines that a UTM or low-altitude 
        CNS facilitates or improves the safety of unmanned aircraft or 
        other aircraft operations that occur primarily or exclusively 
        in airspace 400 feet above ground level and below, including 
        operations conducted under a waiver issued pursuant to subpart 
        D of part 107 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
            ``(2) Criteria for consideration.--In determining whether a 
        UTM or low-altitude CNS meets the standard described in 
        paragraph (1), the Administrator shall, as appropriate, 
        consider--
                    ``(A) protection of persons and property on the 
                ground;
                    ``(B) remote identification of aircraft;
                    ``(C) collision avoidance with respect to obstacles 
                and aircraft;
                    ``(D) deconfliction of aircraft trajectories;
                    ``(E) safe and reliable interoperability or 
                noninterference with air traffic control and other 
                systems operated in the national airspace system;
                    ``(F) detection of noncooperative aircraft;
                    ``(G) geographic and local factors;
                    ``(H) aircraft equipage; and
                    ``(I) qualifications, if any, necessary to operate 
                the UTM or low-altitude CNS.
            ``(3) Application.--An application for an air navigation 
        facility certificate under the final rule shall include 
        evidence that the UTM or low-altitude CNS meets the standard 
        described in paragraph (1) based on the criteria described in 
        paragraph (2).
            ``(4) Scope of certificate.--The Administrator shall ensure 
        that an air navigation facility certificate issued under the 
        final rule--
                    ``(A) constitutes approval of the UTM or low-
                altitude CNS for the duration of the term of the 
                certificate;
                    ``(B) constitutes authorization to operate the UTM 
                or low-altitude CNS for the duration of the term of the 
                certificate; and
                    ``(C) contains such limitations and conditions as 
                may be necessary to ensure aviation safety.
            ``(5) Notice.--Not later than 120 days after the 
        Administrator receives a complete application under the final 
        rule, the Administrator shall provide the applicant with a 
        written approval, disapproval, or request to modify the 
        application.
            ``(6) Low risk areas.--Under the final rule, the 
        Administrator shall establish expedited procedures for approval 
        of UTM or low-altitude CNS operated in--
                    ``(A) airspace away from congested areas; or
                    ``(B) other airspace above areas in which 
                operations of unmanned aircraft pose very low risk.
            ``(7) Exemption from certain requirements.--To the extent 
        consistent with aviation safety, the Administrator may exempt 
        applicants under the final rule from requirements under 
        sections 44702, 44703, and 44711.
            ``(8) Certificate modifications and revocations.--A 
        certificate issued under the final rule may, at any time, be 
        modified or revoked by the Administrator.
    ``(c) Consultation.--In carrying out this section, the 
Administrator shall consult with other Federal agencies, as 
appropriate.
``Sec. 45507. Special rules for certain UTM and low-altitude CNS
    ``(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this 
chapter, and not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of 
this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall determine if 
certain UTM and low-altitude CNS may operate safely in the national 
airspace system before completion of the rulemaking required by section 
45506.
    ``(b) Assessment of UTM and Low-Altitude CNS.--In making the 
determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a 
minimum, which types of UTM and low-altitude CNS, if any, as a result 
of their operational capabilities, reliability, intended use, and areas 
of operation, and the characteristics of the aircraft involved, do not 
create a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public.
    ``(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines 
that certain UTM and low-altitude CNS may operate safely in the 
national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements 
for their safe operation in the national airspace system.
    ``(d) Expedited Procedures.--The Secretary shall provide expedited 
procedures for reviewing and approving UTM or low-altitude CNS operated 
to monitor or control aircraft operated primarily or exclusively in 
airspace above--
            ``(1) croplands;
            ``(2) areas other than congested areas; and
            ``(3) other areas in which the operation of unmanned 
        aircraft poses very low risk.
    ``(e) Consultation.--In carrying out this section, the 
Administrator shall consult with other Federal agencies, as 
appropriate.
``Sec. 45508. Operation of small unmanned aircraft
    ``(a) Exemption and Certificate of Waiver or Authorization for 
Certain Operations.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall establish a procedure for granting an exemption 
and issuing a certificate of waiver or authorization for the operation 
of a small unmanned aircraft system in United States airspace for the 
purposes described in section 45501(1).
    ``(b) Operation of Exemption and Certificate of Waiver or 
Authorization.--
            ``(1) Exemption.--An exemption granted under this section 
        shall--
                    ``(A) exempt the operator of a small unmanned 
                aircraft from the provisions of title 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations, that are exempted in Exemption No. 
                11687, issued on May 26, 2015, Regulatory Docket Number 
                FAA-2015-0117, or in a subsequent exemption; and
                    ``(B) contain conditions and limitations described 
                in paragraphs 3 through 31 of such Exemption No. 11687, 
                or conditions and limitations of a subsequent 
                exemption.
            ``(2) Certificate of waiver or authorization.--A 
        certificate of waiver or authorization issued under this 
        section shall allow the operation of small unmanned aircraft 
        according to--
                    ``(A) the standard provisions and air traffic 
                control special provisions of the certificate of waiver 
                or authorization FAA Form 7711-1 (7-74); or
                    ``(B) the standard and special provisions of a 
                subsequent certificate of waiver or authorization.
    ``(c) Notice to Administrator.--Before operating a small unmanned 
aircraft pursuant to a certificate of waiver or authorization granted 
under this section, the operator shall provide written notice to the 
Administrator, in a form and manner specified by the Administrator, 
that contains such information and assurances as the Administrator 
determines necessary in the interest of aviation safety and the 
efficiency of the national airspace system, including a certification 
that the operator has read, understands, and will comply with all 
terms, conditions, and limitations of the certificate of waiver or 
authorization.
    ``(d) Waiver of Airworthiness Certificate.--Notwithstanding section 
44711(a)(1), the holder of a certificate of waiver or authorization 
granted under this section may operate a small unmanned aircraft under 
the terms, conditions, and limitations of such certificate without an 
airworthiness certificate.
    ``(e) Procedure.--The granting of an exemption or the issuance of a 
certificate of waiver or authorization, or any other action authorized 
by this section, shall be made without regard to--
            ``(1) section 553 of title 5; or
            ``(2) chapter 35 of title 44.
    ``(f) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to--
            ``(1) affect the issuance of a rule by or any other 
        activity of the Secretary of Transportation or the 
        Administrator under any other provision of law; or
            ``(2) invalidate an exemption or certificate of waiver or 
        authorization issued by the Administrator before the date of 
        enactment of this section.
    ``(g) Effective Periods.--An exemption or certificate of waiver or 
authorization issued under this section, or an amendment of such 
exemption or certificate, shall cease to be valid on the effective date 
of a final rule on small unmanned aircraft systems issued under section 
45502(b)(1).
``Sec. 45509. Exception for limited recreational operations of unmanned 
              aircraft
    ``(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (e), and 
notwithstanding chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, a person 
may operate a small unmanned aircraft without specific certification or 
operating authority from the Federal Aviation Administration if the 
operation adheres to all of the following limitations:
            ``(1) The aircraft is flown strictly for recreational 
        purposes.
            ``(2) The aircraft is operated in accordance with or within 
        the programming of a community-based set of safety guidelines 
        that conform with published Federal Aviation Administration 
        advisory materials.
            ``(3) The aircraft is flown within the visual line of sight 
        of the person operating the aircraft or a visual observer co-
        located and in direct communication with the operator.
            ``(4) The aircraft is operated in a manner that does not 
        interfere with and gives way to any manned aircraft.
            ``(5) In Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within 
        the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace 
        designated for an airport, the operator obtains prior 
        authorization from the Administrator or designee before 
        operating and complies with all airspace restrictions and 
        prohibitions.
            ``(6) In Class G airspace, the aircraft is flown from the 
        surface to not more than 400 feet above ground level and 
        complies with all airspace restrictions and prohibitions.
            ``(7) The operator has passed an aeronautical knowledge and 
        safety test described in subsection (g) and administered by the 
        Federal Aviation Administration online for the operation of 
        unmanned aircraft systems and maintains proof of test passage 
        to be made available to the Administrator or law enforcement 
        upon request.
            ``(8) The aircraft is registered and marked in accordance 
        with chapter 441 of this title and proof of registration is 
        made available to the Administrator or a designee of the 
        Administrator or law enforcement upon request.
    ``(b) Other Operations.--Unmanned aircraft operations that do not 
conform to the limitations in subsection (a) must comply with all 
statutes and regulations generally applicable to unmanned aircraft and 
unmanned aircraft systems.
    ``(c) Operations at Fixed Sites.--
            ``(1) Operating procedure required.--Persons operating 
        unmanned aircraft under subsection (a) from a fixed site within 
        Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within the lateral 
        boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated 
        for an airport, or a community-based organization conducting a 
        sanctioned event within such airspace, shall establish a 
        mutually agreed upon operating procedure with the air traffic 
        control facility.
            ``(2) Unmanned aircraft weighing more than 55 pounds.--A 
        person may operate an unmanned aircraft weighing more than 55 
        pounds, including the weight of anything attached to or carried 
        by the aircraft, under subsection (a) if--
                    ``(A) the unmanned aircraft complies with standards 
                and limitations developed by a community-based 
                organization and approved by the Administrator; and
                    ``(B) the aircraft is operated from a fixed site as 
                described in paragraph (1).
    ``(d) Updates.--
            ``(1) In general.--The Administrator, in consultation with 
        government and industry stakeholders, including community-based 
        organizations, shall initiate a process to periodically update 
        the operational parameters under subsection (a), as 
        appropriate.
            ``(2) Considerations.--In updating an operational parameter 
        under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consider--
                    ``(A) appropriate operational limitations to 
                mitigate risks to aviation safety and national 
                security, including risk to the uninvolved public and 
                critical infrastructure;
                    ``(B) operations outside the membership, 
                guidelines, and programming of a community-based 
                organization;
                    ``(C) physical characteristics, technical 
                standards, and classes of aircraft operating under this 
                section;
                    ``(D) trends in use, enforcement, or incidents 
                involving unmanned aircraft systems;
                    ``(E) ensuring, to the greatest extent practicable, 
                that updates to the operational parameters correspond 
                to, and leverage, advances in technology; and
                    ``(F) equipage requirements that facilitate safe, 
                efficient, and secure operations and further integrate 
                all unmanned aircraft into the National Airspace 
                System.
            ``(3) Savings clause.--Nothing in this subsection shall be 
        construed as expanding the authority of the Administrator to 
        require a person operating an unmanned aircraft under this 
        section to seek permissive authority of the Administrator, 
        beyond that required in subsection (a) of this section, prior 
        to operation in the National Airspace System.
    ``(e) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to limit the authority of the Administrator to pursue an 
enforcement action against a person operating any unmanned aircraft who 
endangers the safety of the National Airspace System.
    ``(f) Exceptions.--Nothing in this section prohibits the 
Administrator from promulgating rules generally applicable to unmanned 
aircraft, including those unmanned aircraft eligible for the exception 
set forth in this section, relating to--
            ``(1) updates to the operational parameters for unmanned 
        aircraft in subsection (a);
            ``(2) the registration and marking of unmanned aircraft;
            ``(3) the standards for remotely identifying owners and 
        operators of unmanned aircraft systems and associated unmanned 
        aircraft; and
            ``(4) other standards consistent with maintaining the 
        safety and security of the National Airspace System.
    ``(g) Aeronautical Knowledge and Safety Test.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
        of enactment of this section, the Administrator, in 
        consultation with manufacturers of unmanned aircraft systems, 
        other industry stakeholders, and community-based aviation 
        organizations, shall develop an aeronautical knowledge and 
        safety test that can be administered electronically.
            ``(2) Requirements.--The Administrator shall ensure the 
        aeronautical knowledge and safety test is designed to 
        adequately demonstrate an operator's--
                    ``(A) understanding of aeronautical safety 
                knowledge; and
                    ``(B) knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration 
                regulations and requirements pertaining to the 
                operation of an unmanned aircraft system in the 
                National Airspace System.
``Sec. 45510. Carriage of property for compensation or hire
    ``(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue 
a final rule authorizing the carriage of property by operators of small 
unmanned aircraft systems for compensation or hire within the United 
States.
    ``(b) Contents.--The final rule required under subsection (a) shall 
provide for the following:
            ``(1) Small uas air carrier certificate.--The Administrator 
        of the Federal Aviation Administration, at the direction of the 
        Secretary, shall establish a small UAS air carrier certificate 
        for persons that undertake directly, or by lease or other 
        arrangement, the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems 
        to carry property in air transportation, including commercial 
        fleet operations with highly automated unmanned aircraft 
        systems. The requirements to obtain a small UAS air carrier 
        certificate shall--
                    ``(A) account for the unique characteristics of 
                highly automated small unmanned aircraft systems; and
                    ``(B) include only those obligations necessary for 
                the safe operation of small unmanned aircraft systems.
            ``(2) Small uas air carrier certification process.--The 
        Administrator, at the direction of the Secretary, shall 
        establish a process for the issuance of a small UAS air carrier 
        certificate described in paragraph (1) that is streamlined, 
        simple, performance-based, and risk-based. Such certification 
        process shall consider--
                    ``(A) safety and the mitigation of operational 
                risks from highly automated small unmanned aircraft 
                systems to the safety of other aircraft, and persons 
                and property on the ground;
                    ``(B) the safety and reliability of highly 
                automated small unmanned aircraft system design, 
                including technological capabilities and operational 
                limitations to mitigate such risks; and
                    ``(C) the competencies and compliance programs of 
                manufacturers, operators, and companies that both 
                manufacture and operate small unmanned aircraft systems 
                and components.
            ``(3) Small uas air carrier classification.--The Secretary 
        shall develop a classification system for small unmanned 
        aircraft systems air carriers to establish economic authority 
        for the carriage of property by small unmanned aircraft systems 
        for compensation or hire. Such classification shall only 
        require--
                    ``(A) registration with the Department of 
                Transportation; and
                    ``(B) a valid small UAS air carrier certificate as 
                described in paragraph (1).
``Sec. 45511. Micro UAS operations
    ``(a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall charter an aviation rulemaking advisory committee 
to develop recommendations for regulations under which any person may 
operate a micro unmanned aircraft system, the aircraft component of 
which weighs 4.4 pounds or less, including payload, without the person 
operating the system being required to pass any airman certification 
requirement, including any requirements under section 44703, part 61 of 
title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or any other rule or regulation 
relating to airman certification.
    ``(b) Considerations.--In developing recommendations for the 
operation of micro unmanned aircraft systems under subsection (a), the 
members of the aviation rulemaking advisory committee shall consider 
rules for operation of such systems--
            ``(1) at an altitude of less than 400 feet above ground 
        level;
            ``(2) with an airspeed of not greater than 40 knots;
            ``(3) within the visual line of sight of the operator;
            ``(4) during the hours between sunrise and sunset;
            ``(5) by an operator who has passed an aeronautical 
        knowledge and safety test administered by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration online specifically for the operation of micro 
        unmanned aircraft systems, with such test being of a length and 
        difficulty that acknowledges the reduced operational complexity 
        and low risk of micro unmanned aircraft systems;
            ``(6) not over unprotected persons uninvolved in its 
        operation; and
            ``(7) at least 5 statute miles from the geographic center 
        of a tower-controlled airport or airport denoted on a current 
        Federal Aviation Administration-published aeronautical chart, 
        except that a micro unmanned aircraft system may be operated 
        closer than 5 statute miles to the airport if the operator--
                    ``(A) provides prior notice to the airport 
                operator; and
                    ``(B) receives, for a tower-controlled airport, 
                prior approval from the air traffic control facility 
                located at the airport.
    ``(c) Consultation.--
            ``(1) In general.--In developing recommendations for 
        recommended regulations under subsection (a), the aviation 
        rulemaking advisory committee shall consult with--
                    ``(A) unmanned aircraft systems stakeholders, 
                including manufacturers of micro unmanned aircraft 
                systems;
                    ``(B) community-based aviation organizations;
                    ``(C) the Center of Excellence for Unmanned 
                Aircraft Systems; and
                    ``(D) appropriate Federal agencies.
            ``(2) FACA.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. 
        App.) shall not apply to an aviation rulemaking advisory 
        committee chartered under this section.
    ``(d) Rulemaking.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
receipt of the recommendations under subsection (a), the Administrator 
shall issue regulations incorporating recommendations of the aviation 
rulemaking advisory committee that provide for the operation of micro 
unmanned aircraft systems in the United States--
            ``(1) without an airman certificate; and
            ``(2) without an airworthiness certificate for the 
        associated unmanned aircraft.
    ``(e) Scope of Regulations.--
            ``(1) In general.--In determining whether a person may 
        operate an unmanned aircraft system under 1 or more of the 
        circumstances described under paragraphs (1) through (3) of 
        subsection (b), the Administrator shall use a risk-based 
        approach and consider, at a minimum, the physical and 
        functional characteristics of the unmanned aircraft system.
            ``(2) Limitation.--The Administrator may only issue 
        regulations under this section for unmanned aircraft systems 
        that the Administrator determines may be operated safely in the 
        national airspace system pursuant to those regulations.
    ``(f) Rules of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed--
            ``(1) to prohibit a person from operating an unmanned 
        aircraft system under a circumstance described under paragraphs 
        (1) through (3) of subsection (b) if--
                    ``(A) the circumstance is allowed by regulations 
                issued under this section; and
                    ``(B) the person operates the unmanned aircraft 
                system in a manner prescribed by the regulations; or
            ``(2) to limit or affect in any way the Administrator's 
        authority to conduct a rulemaking, make a determination, or 
        carry out any activity related to unmanned aircraft or unmanned 
        aircraft systems under any other provision of law.''.
    (b) Conforming Amendments.--
            (1) Repeals.--
                    (A) In general.--Sections 332(a), 332(b), 332(d), 
                333, 334, and 336 of the FAA Modernization and Reform 
                Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) are repealed.
                    (B) Clerical amendment.--The items relating to 
                sections 333, 334, and 336 of the FAA Modernization and 
                Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) in the table 
                of contents contained in section 1(b) of that Act are 
                repealed.
            (2) Penalties.--Section 46301 of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended--
                    (A) in subsection (a)--
                            (i) in paragraph (1)(A) by inserting 
                        ``chapter 455,'' after ``chapter 451,''; and
                            (ii) in paragraph (5)(A)(i) by striking 
                        ``or chapter 451,'' and inserting ``chapter 
                        451, chapter 455,'';
                    (B) in subsection (d)(2) by inserting ``chapter 
                455,'' after ``chapter 451,''; and
                    (C) in subsection (f)(1)(A)(i) by striking ``or 
                chapter 451'' and inserting ``chapter 451, or chapter 
                455''.
            (3) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for subtitle VII of 
        title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the 
        item relating to chapter 453 the following:

``455. Unmanned aircraft systems............................   45501''.

SEC. 333. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT TEST RANGES.

    (a) Extension of Program.--Section 332(c)(1) of the FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended 
by striking ``September 30, 2019'' and inserting ``the date that is 6 
years after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 
2018''.
    (b) Sense-and-Avoid and Beyond Line of Sight Systems at Test 
Ranges.--
            (1) In general.--To the extent consistent with aviation 
        safety, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall permit and encourage flights of unmanned 
        aircraft equipped with sense-and-avoid and beyond line of sight 
        systems at the 6 test ranges designated under section 332(c) of 
        the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012.
            (2) Waivers.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
        Administrator may waive the requirements of section 44711 of 
        title 49, United States Code, including related regulations, to 
        the extent consistent with aviation safety.
    (c)  Test Range Defined.--
            (1) In general.--In this section, the term ``test range'' 
        means a defined geographic area where research and development 
        are conducted as authorized by the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration.
            (2) Inclusions.--Such term includes any of the 6 test 
        ranges established by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration under section 332(c) of the FAA Modernization 
        and Reform Act of 2012, as in effect on the day before the date 
        of enactment of this subsection, and any public entity 
        authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration as an 
        unmanned aircraft system flight test center before January 1, 
        2009.

SEC. 334. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SAFETY.

    It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the unauthorized operation of unmanned aircraft near 
        airports presents a serious hazard to aviation safety;
            (2) a collision between an unmanned aircraft and a 
        conventional aircraft in flight could jeopardize the safety of 
        persons aboard the aircraft and on the ground;
            (3) Federal aviation regulations, including sections 91.126 
        through 91.131 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, 
        prohibit unauthorized operation of an aircraft in controlled 
        airspace near an airport;
            (4) Federal aviation regulations, including section 91.13 
        of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, prohibit the 
        operation of an aircraft in a careless or reckless manner so as 
        to endanger the life or property of another;
            (5) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration should pursue all available civil and 
        administrative remedies available to the Administrator, 
        including referrals to other government agencies for criminal 
        investigations, with respect to persons who operate unmanned 
        aircraft in an unauthorized manner;
            (6) the Administrator should--
                    (A) place particular priority in continuing 
                measures, including partnering with nongovernmental 
                organizations and State and local agencies, to educate 
                the public about the dangers to public safety of 
                operating unmanned aircraft over areas that have 
                temporary flight restrictions in place, for purposes 
                such as wildfires, without appropriate approval or 
                authorization from the Forest Service; and
                    (B) partner with State and local agencies to 
                effectively enforce relevant laws so that unmanned 
                aircrafts do not interfere with the efforts of 
                emergency responders;
            (7) the Administrator should place particular priority on 
        continuing measures, including partnerships with 
        nongovernmental organizations, to educate the public about the 
        dangers to the public safety of operating unmanned aircraft 
        near airports without the appropriate approvals or 
        authorizations; and
            (8) manufacturers and retail sellers of small unmanned 
        aircraft systems should take steps to educate consumers about 
        the safe and lawful operation of such systems.

SEC. 335. UAS PRIVACY REVIEW.

    (a) Review.--The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with 
the heads of appropriate Federal agencies, appropriate State and local 
officials, and subject-matter experts and in consideration of relevant 
efforts led by the National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration, shall carry out a review to identify any potential 
reduction of privacy specifically caused by the integration of unmanned 
aircraft systems into the national airspace system.
    (b) Consultation.--In carrying out the review, the Secretary shall 
consult with the National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration of the Department of Commerce on its ongoing efforts 
responsive to the Presidential memorandum titled ``Promoting Economic 
Competitiveness While Safeguarding Privacy, Civil Rights, and Civil 
Liberties in Domestic Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems'' and dated 
February 15, 2015.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
results of the review required under subsection (a).

SEC. 336. PUBLIC UAS OPERATIONS BY TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS.

    (a) Public UAS Operations by Tribal Governments.--Section 
40102(a)(41) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at 
the end the following:
                    ``(F) An unmanned aircraft that is owned and 
                operated by, or exclusively leased for at least 90 
                continuous days by, an Indian Tribal government, as 
                defined in section 102 of the Robert T. Stafford 
                Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
                5122), except as provided in section 40125(b).''.
    (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 40125(b) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``or (D)'' and inserting ``(D), or 
(F)''.

SEC. 337. EVALUATION OF AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION FOR SMALL UNMANNED 
              AIRCRAFT.

    (a) Metrics.--Beginning not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall develop and track metrics to assess compliance 
with and effectiveness of the registration of small unmanned aircraft 
systems by the Federal Aviation Administration pursuant to the interim 
final rule issued on December 16, 2015, entitled ``Registration and 
Marking Requirements for Small Unmanned Aircraft'' (80 Fed. Reg. 78593) 
and any subsequent final rule, including metrics with respect to--
            (1) the levels of compliance with the interim final rule 
        and any subsequent final rule;
            (2) the number of enforcement actions taken by the 
        Administration for violations of or noncompliance with the 
        interim final rule and any subsequent final rule, together with 
        a description of the actions; and
            (3) the effect of the interim final rule and any subsequent 
        final rule on compliance with any fees associated with the use 
        of small unmanned aircraft systems.
    (b) Evaluation.--The Inspector General of the Department of 
Transportation shall evaluate--
            (1) the Administration's progress in developing and 
        tracking the metrics set forth in subsection (a); and
            (2) the reliability, effectiveness, and efficiency of the 
        Administration's registration program for small unmanned 
        aircraft.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation 
shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate a report containing--
            (1) the results of the evaluation required under subsection 
        (b); and
            (2) recommendations to the Administrator and Congress for 
        improvements to the registration process for small unmanned 
        aircraft.

SEC. 338. STUDY ON ROLES OF GOVERNMENTS RELATING TO LOW-ALTITUDE 
              OPERATION OF SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation 
shall initiate a study on--
            (1) the regulation and oversight of the low-altitude 
        operations of small unmanned aircraft and small unmanned 
        aircraft systems; and
            (2) the appropriate roles and responsibilities of Federal, 
        State, local, and Tribal governments in regulating and 
        overseeing the operations of small unmanned aircraft in 
        airspace 400 feet above ground level and below.
    (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the study, the Inspector 
General shall consider, at a minimum--
            (1) the recommendations of Task Group 1 of the Drone 
        Advisory Committee chartered by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration on August 31, 2016;
            (2) the legal and policy requirements necessary for the 
        safe and financially viable development and growth of the 
        unmanned aircraft industry;
            (3) the interests of Federal, State, local, and Tribal 
        governments affected by low-altitude operations of small 
        unmanned aircraft;
            (4) the existing authorities of Federal, State, local, and 
        Tribal governments to protect the interests referenced in 
        paragraph (3);
            (5) the degree of regulatory consistency required for the 
        safe and financially viable growth and development of the 
        unmanned aircraft industry;
            (6) the degree of local variance possible among regulations 
        consistent with the safe and financially viable growth and 
        development of the unmanned aircraft industry;
            (7) the appropriate roles of State, local, and Tribal 
        governments in regulating the operations of small unmanned 
        aircraft within the lateral boundaries of their jurisdiction in 
        the categories of airspace described in subsection (a)(2), 
        including during emergency situations that may threaten public 
        safety;
            (8) the subjects and types of regulatory authority that 
        should remain with the Federal Government;
            (9) the infrastructure requirements necessary for 
        monitoring the low-altitude operations of small unmanned 
        aircraft and enforcing applicable laws;
            (10) the number of small businesses involved in the various 
        sectors of the unmanned aircraft industry and operating as 
        primary users of small unmanned aircraft; and
            (11) any best practices, lessons learned, or policies of 
        jurisdictions outside the United States relating to local or 
        regional regulation and oversight of small unmanned aircraft 
        and other emergent technologies.
    (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after initiating 
the study, the Inspector General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study.

SEC. 339. STUDY ON FINANCING OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SERVICES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall 
initiate a study on appropriate fee mechanisms to recover the costs 
of--
            (1) the regulation and safety oversight of unmanned 
        aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems; and
            (2) the provision of air navigation services to unmanned 
        aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems.
    (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the study, the Comptroller 
General shall consider, at a minimum--
            (1) the recommendations of Task Group 3 of the Drone 
        Advisory Committee chartered by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration on August 31, 2016;
            (2) the total annual costs incurred by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration for the regulation and safety oversight of 
        activities related to unmanned aircraft;
            (3) the annual costs attributable to various types, 
        classes, and categories of unmanned aircraft activities;
            (4) air traffic services provided to unmanned aircraft 
        operating under instrument flight rules, excluding public 
        aircraft;
            (5) the number of full-time Federal Aviation Administration 
        employees dedicated to unmanned aircraft programs;
            (6) the use of privately operated UTM and other privately 
        operated unmanned aircraft systems;
            (7) the projected growth of unmanned aircraft operations 
        for various applications and the estimated need for regulation, 
        oversight, and other services;
            (8) the number of small businesses involved in the various 
        sectors of the unmanned aircraft industry and operating as 
        primary users of unmanned aircraft; and
            (9) any best practices or policies utilized by 
        jurisdictions outside the United States relating to partial or 
        total recovery of regulation and safety oversight costs related 
        to unmanned aircraft and other emergent technologies.
    (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after initiating 
the study, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report containing recommendations on appropriate fee mechanisms to 
recover the costs of regulating and providing air navigation services 
to unmanned aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems.

SEC. 340. UPDATE OF FAA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall update the 
comprehensive plan developed pursuant to section 332 of the FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) to develop 
a concept of operations for the integration of unmanned aircraft into 
the national airspace system.
    (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the update, the Secretary 
shall consider, at a minimum--
            (1) the potential use of UTM and other technologies to 
        ensure the safe and lawful operation of unmanned aircraft in 
        the national airspace system;
            (2) the appropriate roles, responsibilities, and 
        authorities of government agencies and the private sector in 
        identifying and reporting unlawful or harmful operations and 
        operators of unmanned aircraft;
            (3) the use of models, threat assessments, probabilities, 
        and other methods to distinguish between lawful and unlawful 
        operations of unmanned aircraft; and
            (4) appropriate systems, training, intergovernmental 
        processes, protocols, and procedures to mitigate risks and 
        hazards posed by unlawful or harmful operations of unmanned 
        aircraft systems.
    (c) Consultation.--The Secretary shall carry out the update in 
consultation with representatives of the aviation industry, Federal 
agencies that employ unmanned aircraft systems technology in the 
national airspace system, and the unmanned aircraft systems industry.
    (d) Program Alignment.--The Secretary shall submit a report to the 
House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Senate 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation within 90 days after 
enactment of this Act that describes how each of the following programs 
will be executed or implemented in a systematic and timely manner to 
avoid duplication, leverage capabilities learned across programs, and 
support the safe integration of UAS into the national airspace:
            (1) Commercially-operated Low Altitude Authorization and 
        Notification Capability.
            (2) The Unmanned Aircraft System Integration Pilot Program.
            (3) The Unmanned Traffic Management Pilot Program.

SEC. 341. COOPERATION RELATED TO CERTAIN COUNTER-UAS TECHNOLOGY.

    In matters relating to the use of systems in the national airspace 
system intended to mitigate threats posed by errant or hostile unmanned 
aircraft system operations, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
consult with the Secretary of Defense to streamline deployment of such 
systems by drawing upon the expertise and experience of the Department 
of Defense in acquiring and operating such systems consistent with the 
safe and efficient operation of the national airspace system.

SEC. 342. DEFINITIONS.

    Section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
            ``(48) `counter-UAS system' means a system or device 
        capable of lawfully and safely disabling, disrupting, or 
        seizing control of an unmanned aircraft or unmanned aircraft 
        system.
            ``(49) `public unmanned aircraft system' means an unmanned 
        aircraft system that meets the qualifications and conditions 
        required for operation of a public aircraft.
            ``(50) `small unmanned aircraft' means an unmanned aircraft 
        weighing less than 55 pounds, including everything that is on 
        board or otherwise attached to the aircraft.
            ``(51) `unmanned aircraft' means an aircraft that is 
        operated without the possibility of direct human intervention 
        from within or on the aircraft.
            ``(52) `unmanned aircraft system' means an unmanned 
        aircraft and associated elements (including communication links 
        and the components that control the unmanned aircraft) that are 
        required for the pilot in command to operate safely and 
        efficiently in the national airspace system.
            ``(53) `UTM' means an unmanned aircraft traffic management 
        system or service.''.

SEC. 343. SPECIAL RULES FOR MODEL AIRCRAFT.

    (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law 
relating to the incorporation of unmanned aircraft systems into Federal 
Aviation Administration plans and policies, including this subtitle, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may not 
promulgate any rule or regulation regarding a model aircraft or an 
aircraft being developed as a model aircraft, except for--
            (1) rules regarding the registration of certain model 
        aircraft pursuant to section 44103; and
            (2) rules regarding unmanned aircraft that by design 
        provide advanced flight capabilities enabling active, 
        sustained, and controlled navigation of the aircraft beyond the 
        visual line of sight of the operator, if--
                    (A) the aircraft is flown strictly for hobby or 
                recreational use;
                    (B) the model aircraft operator is a current member 
                of a community-based organization and whose aircraft is 
                operated in accordance with the organization's safety 
                rules;
                    (C) the aircraft is limited to not more than 55 
                pounds unless otherwise certified through a design, 
                construction, inspection, flight test, and operational 
                safety program administered by a community-based 
                organization;
                    (D) the aircraft is operated in a manner that does 
                not interfere with and gives way to any manned 
                aircraft;
                    (E) the aircraft is not operated over or within the 
                property of a fixed site facility that operates 
                amusement rides available for use by the general public 
                or the property extending 500 lateral feet beyond the 
                perimeter of such facility unless the operation is 
                authorized by the owner of the amusement facility; and
                    (F) when flown within 5 miles of an airport, the 
                operator of the aircraft provides the airport operator 
                and the airport air traffic control tower (when an air 
                traffic facility is located at the airport) with prior 
                notice of the operation (model aircraft operators 
                flying from a permanent location within 5 miles of an 
                airport should establish a mutually agreed upon 
                operating procedure with the airport operator and the 
                airport air traffic control tower (when an air traffic 
                facility is located at the airport)).
    (b) Automated Instant Authorization.--When the FAA has developed 
and implemented an automated airspace authorization system for the 
airspace in which the operator wants to operate, the model aircraft 
operator shall use this system for authorization to controlled airspace 
unless flown--
            (1) at a permanent location agreed to by the Administrator; 
        and
            (2) in accordance with a mutually agreed upon operating 
        procedure established with the airport operator and the airport 
        air traffic control tower (when an air traffic facility is 
        located at the airport).
    (d) Commercial Operation for Instructional or Educational 
Purposes.--A flight of an unmanned aircraft shall be treated as a 
flight of a model aircraft for purposes of subsection (a) (regardless 
of any compensation, reimbursement, or other consideration exchanged or 
incidental economic benefit gained in the course of planning, 
operating, or supervising the flight), if the flight is--
            (1) conducted for instructional or educational purposes; 
        and
            (2) operated or supervised by a member of a community-based 
        organization recognized pursuant to subsection (e).
    (e) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to limit the authority of the Administrator to pursue 
enforcement action against persons operating model aircraft who 
endanger the safety of the national airspace system.
    (f) Community-based Organization Defined.--In this section, the 
term ``community-based organization'' means a nationwide membership-
based association entity that--
            (1) is described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal 
        Revenue Code of 1986;
            (2) is exempt from tax under section 501(a) of the Internal 
        Revenue Code of 1986;
            (3) the mission of which is demonstrably the furtherance of 
        model aviation;
            (4) provides a comprehensive set of safety guidelines for 
        all aspects of model aviation addressing the assembly and 
        operation of model aircraft and that emphasize safe 
        aeromodeling operations within the national airspace system and 
        the protection and safety of individuals and property on the 
        ground, and may provide a comprehensive set of safety rules and 
        programming for the operation of unmanned aircraft that have 
        the advanced flight capabilities enabling active, sustained, 
        and controlled navigation of the aircraft beyond visual line of 
        sight of the operator;
            (5) provides programming and support for any local charter 
        organizations, affiliates, or clubs; and
            (6) provides assistance and support in the development and 
        operation of locally designated model aircraft flying sites.
    (g) Recognition of Community-based Organizations.--In collaboration 
with aeromodelling stakeholders, the Administrator shall publish an 
advisory circular within 180 days of enactment that identifies the 
criteria and process required for recognition of nationwide community-
based organizations. This recognition shall be in the form of a 
memorandum of agreement between the FAA and each community-based 
organization and does not require regulatory action to implement.
    (h) Effective Date.--Except for rules to implement remote 
identification for unmanned aircraft that by design provide advanced 
flight capabilities enabling active, sustained, and controlled 
navigation of the aircraft beyond the visual line of sight of the 
operator and for rules regarding the registration of certain model 
aircraft pursuant to section 44103, this section shall become effective 
when the rule, referred to in section 532 of the FAA Reauthorization 
Act of 2018, regarding revisions to part 107 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, becomes final.

SEC. 344. RECREATIONAL UAS.

    (a) In General .--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue rules and regulations relating to small UAS 
flown for recreational or educational use, and that are not operated 
within all of the criteria outlined in the special rule for model 
aircraft in section 45505 of title 49, United States Code, or the 
requirements of part 107 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    (b) Regulatory Authority.--When issuing the rules and regulation 
pursuant to this section, the Administrator shall--
            (1) require the completion of an online or electronic 
        educational tutorial that is focused on knowledge of the 
        primary rules necessary for the safe operation of such UAS and 
        whose completion time is of reasonable length and limited 
        duration;
            (2) include provisions that enable the operation of such 
        UAS by individuals under the age of 16 without a certificated 
        pilot;
            (3) require UAS operators within Class B, C, D and E 
        airspace to obtain authorization, as the Administrator may 
        determine to be necessary within that airspace, but only after 
        the Federal Aviation Administration has developed and 
        implemented an automated airspace authorization system for the 
        airspace in which the operator wants to operate; and
            (4) include provisions that provide specific operational 
        rules for UAS operating in close proximity to airports in class 
        G airspace.
    (c) Maintaining Broad Access to UAS Technology.--When issuing rules 
or regulations for the operation of UAS under this section, the 
Administrator shall not--
            (1) require the pilot or operator of the UAS to obtain or 
        hold an airman certificate;
            (2) require a practical flight examination, medical 
        examination, or the completion of a flight training program;
            (3) limit such UAS operations to pre-designated fixed 
        locations or uncontrolled airspace; or
            (4) require airworthiness certification of any UAS operated 
        pursuant to this section.
    (d) Collaboration.--The Administrator shall carry out this section 
in collaboration with industry and community-based organizations.

SEC. 345. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS INTEGRATION PILOT PROGRAM.

    (a) Authority.--The Secretary of Transportation may establish a 
pilot program to enable enhanced drone operations as required in the 
October 25, 2017 Presidential Memorandum entitled ``Unmanned Aircraft 
Systems Integration Pilot Program'' and described in 82 Federal 
Register 50301.
    (b) Applications.--The Secretary shall accept applications from 
State, local, and Tribal governments, in partnership with unmanned 
aircraft system operators and other private-sector stakeholders, to 
test and evaluate the integration of civil and public UAS operations 
into the low-altitude national airspace system.
    (c) Objectives.--The purpose of the pilot program is to accelerate 
existing UAS integration plans by working to solve technical, 
regulatory, and policy challenges, while enabling advanced UAS 
operations in select areas subject to ongoing safety oversight and 
cooperation between the Federal Government and applicable State, local, 
or Tribal jurisdictions, in order to--
            (1) accelerate the safe integration of UAS into the NAS by 
        testing and validating new concepts of beyond visual line of 
        sight operations in a controlled environment, focusing on 
        detect and avoid technologies, command and control links, 
        navigation, weather, and human factors;
            (2) address ongoing concerns regarding the potential 
        security and safety risks associated with UAS operating in 
        close proximity to human beings and critical infrastructure by 
        ensuring that operators communicate more effectively with 
        Federal, State, local, and Tribal law enforcement to enable law 
        enforcement to determine if a UAS operation poses such a risk;
            (3) promote innovation in and development of the United 
        States unmanned aviation industry, especially in sectors such 
        as agriculture, emergency management, inspection, and 
        transportation safety, in which there are significant public 
        benefits to be gained from the deployment of UAS; and
            (4) identify the most effective models of balancing local 
        and national interests in UAS integration.
    (d) Application Submission.--The Secretary shall establish 
application requirements and require applicants to include the 
following information:
            (1) Identification of the airspace to be used, including 
        shape files and altitudes.
            (2) Description of the types of planned operations.
            (3) Identification of stakeholder partners to test and 
        evaluate planned operations.
            (4) Identification of available infrastructure to support 
        planned operations.
            (5) Description of experience with UAS operations and 
        regulations.
            (6) Description of existing UAS operator and any other 
        stakeholder partnerships and experience.
            (7) Description of plans to address safety, security, 
        competition, privacy concerns, and community outreach.
    (e) Reasonable Time, Manner, and Place Limitations.--
            (1) In general.--
                    (A) Requests.--The Lead Applicant may request 
                reasonable time, place and manner limitations on low-
                altitude UAS operations within its jurisdiction to 
                facilitate the proposed development and testing of new 
                and innovative UAS concepts of operations in addition 
                to other selection criteria.
                    (B) Self-implementing provisions.--The Secretary 
                shall require jurisdictions to ensure that any time, 
                place and manner limitations, including those adopted 
                through means such as legislation or regulation, 
                include self-implementing provisions that automatically 
                terminate those restrictions upon the termination of 
                the Memorandum of Agreement.
                    (C) Monitoring and enforcement.--
                            (i) In general.--Monitoring and enforcement 
                        of any limitations enacted pursuant to this 
                        pilot project shall be the responsibility of 
                        the jurisdiction.
                            (ii) Savings provision.--Nothing in clause 
                        (i) may be construed to prevent the Secretary 
                        from enforcing Federal law.
            (2) Examples.--Examples of reasonable time, manner, and 
        place limitations may include--
                    (A) prohibiting flight during specified morning and 
                evening rush hours or only permitting flight during 
                specified hours such as daylight hours, sufficient to 
                ensure reasonable airspace access;
                    (B) establishing designated take-off and landing 
                zones, limiting operations over moving locations or 
                fixed site public road and parks, sidewalks or private 
                property based on zoning density, or other land use 
                considerations;
                    (C) requiring notice to public safety or zoning or 
                land use authorities before operating;
                    (D) limiting UAS operations within designated 
                altitudes within airspace over the jurisdiction;
                    (E) specifying maximum speed of flight over 
                specified areas;
                    (F) prohibiting operations in connection with 
                community or sporting events that do not remain in one 
                place (for example, parades and running events); and
                    (G) mandating equipage.
    (f) Selection Criteria.--In making determinations, the Secretary 
shall evaluate whether applications meet or exceed the following 
criteria:
            (1) Overall economic, geographic, and climatic diversity of 
        the selected jurisdictions.
            (2) Overall diversity of the proposed models of government 
        involvement.
            (3) Overall diversity of the UAS operations to be 
        conducted.
            (4) The location of critical infrastructure.
            (5) The involvement of commercial entities in the proposal 
        and their ability to advance objectives that may serve the 
        public interest as a result of further integration of UAS into 
        the NAS.
            (6) The involvement of affected communities in, and their 
        support for, participating in the pilot program.
            (7) The commitment of the governments and UAS operators 
        involved in the proposal to comply with requirements related to 
        national defense, homeland security, and public safety and to 
        address competition, privacy, and civil liberties concerns.
            (8) The commitment of the governments and UAS operators 
        involved in the proposal to achieve the following policy 
        objectives:
                    (A) Promoting innovation and economic development.
                    (B) Enhancing transportation safety.
                    (C) Enhancing workplace safety.
                    (D) Improving emergency response and search and 
                rescue functions.
                    (E) Using radio spectrum efficiently and 
                competitively.
    (g) Implementation.--The Secretary shall use the data collected and 
experience gained over the course of this pilot program to--
            (1) identify and resolve technical challenges to UAS 
        integration;
            (2) address airspace use to safely and efficiently 
        integrate all aircraft;
            (3) inform operational standards and procedures to improve 
        safety (for example, detect and avoid capabilities, navigation 
        and altitude performance, and command and control link);
            (4) inform FAA standards that reduce the need for waivers 
        (for example, for operations over human beings, night 
        operations, and beyond visual line of sight); and
            (5) address competing interests regarding UAS operational 
        expansion, safety, security, roles and responsibilities of non-
        Federal Government entities, and privacy issues.
    (h) Definitions.--In this section:
            (1) The term ``Lead Applicant'' means an eligible State, 
        local or Tribal government that has submitted a timely 
        application.
            (2) The term ``NAS'' means the low-altitude national 
        airspace system.
            (3) The term ``UAS'' means unmanned aircraft system.

SEC. 346. ENFORCEMENT.

    (a) UAS Safety Enforcement.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall establish a program to utilize available 
remote detection and identification technologies for safety oversight, 
including enforcement actions against operators of unmanned aircraft 
systems that are not in compliance with applicable Federal aviation 
laws, including regulations.
    (b) Reporting.--As part of the program, the Administrator shall 
establish and publicize a mechanism for the public and Federal, State, 
and local law enforcement to report suspected operation of unmanned 
aircraft in violation of applicable Federal laws and regulations.
    (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, and annually 
thereafter, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate 
committees of Congress a report on the following:
            (1) The number of unauthorized unmanned aircraft operations 
        detected in restricted airspace, including in and around 
        airports, together with a description of such operations.
            (2) The number of enforcement cases brought by the Federal 
        Aviation Administration or other Federal agencies for 
        unauthorized operation of unmanned aircraft detected through 
        the program, together with a description of such cases.
            (3) Recommendations for safety and operational standards 
        for unmanned aircraft detection and mitigation systems.
            (4) Recommendations for any legislative or regulatory 
        changes related to mitigation or detection or identification of 
        unmanned aircraft systems.

SEC. 347. ACTIVELY TETHERED PUBLIC UAS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall issue such regulations as are necessary to 
authorize the use of certain actively tethered public unmanned aircraft 
system by government public safety agencies without any requirement to 
obtain a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or other 
approval by the Federal Aviation Administration.
    (b) Requirements.--The regulations issued pursuant to subsection 
(a) shall establish risk-based operational conditions for operation of 
actively tethered public unmanned aircraft systems by government public 
safety agencies that recognize and accommodate the unique operational 
circumstances of such systems, including the requirements that the 
aircraft component may only be operated--
            (1) within the line of sight of the operator;
            (2) less than 200 feet above the ground;
            (3) within class G airspace; and
            (4) at least 5 statute miles from the geographic center of 
        a tower-controller airport or airport denoted on a current 
        aeronautical chart published by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration, except that an actively tethered public 
        unmanned aircraft system may be operated closer than 5 statute 
        miles to the airport if--
                    (A) the operator of the actively tethered public 
                unmanned aircraft system provides prior notice to the 
                airport operator and receives, for a tower-controlled 
                airport, prior approval from the air traffic control 
                facilitate located at the airport; or
                    (B) the exigent circumstances of an emergency 
                prevent the giving of notice contemplated by clause (i) 
                and the actively tethered public unmanned aircraft 
                system is operated outside the flight path of any 
                manned aircraft.
    (c) Definition of Actively Tethered Public Unmanned Aircraft 
System.--The term ``actively tethered public unmanned aircraft system'' 
means public unmanned aircraft system in which the unmanned aircraft 
component--
            (1) weighs 4.4 pounds or less, including payload;
            (2) is physically attached to a ground station with a taut, 
        appropriately load-rated tether that provides continuous power 
        to the unmanned aircraft; and
            (3) is capable of being controlled and retrieved by such 
        ground station through physical manipulation of the tether.

SEC. 348. REPORT ON POSSIBLE UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS OPERATION ON 
              SPECTRUM ALLOCATED FOR AVIATION USE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, and after consultation with relevant 
stakeholders, the Federal Aviation Administration, the National 
Telecommunications and Information Administration, and the Federal 
Communications Commission, shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, 
Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and 
the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a 
report--
            (1) on whether unmanned aircraft systems operations should 
        be permitted on spectrum designated for aviation use, on an 
        unlicensed, shared, or exclusive basis, for operations within 
        the UTM system or outside of such a system;
            (2) that addresses any technological, statutory, 
        regulatory, and operational barriers to the use of such 
        spectrum for unmanned aircraft systems operations; and
            (3) that, if it is determined that spectrum designated for 
        aviation use is not suitable for operations by unmanned 
        aircraft systems, includes recommendations of other spectrum 
        frequencies that may be appropriate for such operations.
    (b) Definitions.--In this section:
            (1) Unmanned aircraft system.--The term ``unmanned aircraft 
        system'' means an unmanned aircraft and associated elements 
        (including communication links and the components that control 
        the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the pilot in 
        command to operate safely and efficiently in the national 
        airspace system.
            (2) UTM.--The term ``UTM'' means an unmanned aircraft 
        traffic management system or service.

SEC. 349. U.S. COUNTER-UAS SYSTEM REVIEW OF INTERAGENCY COORDINATION 
              PROCESSES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after that date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration, in consultation with government agencies currently 
authorized to operate Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) systems 
within the United States (including the territories and possessions of 
the United States), shall initiate a review of the following:
            (1) The process the Administration is utilizing for 
        interagency coordination of C-UAS activity pursuant to a 
        relevant Federal statute authorizing such activity within the 
        United States (including the territories and possessions of the 
        United States).
            (2) The standards the Administration is utilizing for 
        operation of a C-UAS systems pursuant to a relevant Federal 
        statute authorizing such activity within the United States 
        (including the territories and possessions of the United 
        States), including whether the following criteria are being 
        taken into consideration in the development of the standards:
                    (A) Safety of the national airspace.
                    (B) Protecting individuals and property on the 
                ground.
                    (C) Non-interference with avionics of manned 
                aircraft, and unmanned aircraft, operating legally in 
                the national airspace.
                    (D) Non-interference with air traffic control 
                systems.
                    (E) Consistent procedures in the operation of C-UAS 
                systems to the maximum extent practicable.
                    (F) Adequate coordination procedures and protocols 
                with the Federal Aviation Administration during the 
                operation of C-UAS systems.
                    (G) Adequate training for personnel operating C-UAS 
                systems.
                    (H) Assessment of the efficiency and effectiveness 
                of the coordination and review processes to ensure 
                national airspace safety while minimizing bureaucracy.
                    (I) Such other matters the Administrator deems 
                necessary for the safe and lawful operation of C-UAS 
                systems.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date upon which the 
review in subsection (a) is initiated, the Administrator shall submit 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives, the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation in the Senate, and the Committee on Armed Services of 
the Senate, a report on the Administration's activities related to C-
UAS systems, including--
            (1) any coordination with Federal agencies and States, 
        subdivisions and States, political authorities of at least 2 
        States that operate C-UAS systems; and
            (2) an assessment of the standards being utilized for the 
        operation of a counter-UAS systems within the United States 
        (including the territories and possessions of the United 
        States).

                   TITLE IV--AIR SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

           Subtitle A--Airline Customer Service Improvements

SEC. 401. RELIABLE AIR SERVICE IN AMERICAN SAMOA.

    Section 40109(g) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (2) by striking subparagraph (C) and 
        inserting the following:
            ``(C) review the exemption at least every 30 days (or, in 
        the case of an exemption that is necessary to provide and 
        sustain air transportation in American Samoa between the 
        islands of Tutuila and Manu'a, at least every 180 days) to 
        ensure that the unusual circumstances that established the need 
        for the exemption still exist.''; and
            (2) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
            ``(3) Renewal of exemptions.--
                    ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in 
                subparagraph (B), the Secretary may renew an exemption 
                (including renewals) under this subsection for not more 
                than 30 days.
                    ``(B) Exception.--The Secretary may renew an 
                exemption (including renewals) under this subsection 
                that is necessary to provide and sustain air 
                transportation in American Samoa between the islands of 
                Tutuila and Manu'a for not more than 180 days.
            ``(4) Continuation of exemptions.--An exemption granted by 
        the Secretary under this subsection may continue for not more 
        than 5 days after the unusual circumstances that established 
        the need for the exemption cease.''.

SEC. 402. CELL PHONE VOICE COMMUNICATION BAN.

    (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 417 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 41725. Prohibition on certain cell phone voice communications
    ``(a) Prohibition.--The Secretary of Transportation shall issue 
regulations--
            ``(1) to prohibit an individual on an aircraft from 
        engaging in voice communications using a mobile communications 
        device during a flight of that aircraft in scheduled passenger 
        interstate or intrastate air transportation; and
            ``(2) that exempt from the prohibition described in 
        paragraph (1) any--
                    ``(A) member of the flight crew on duty on an 
                aircraft;
                    ``(B) flight attendant on duty on an aircraft; and
                    ``(C) Federal law enforcement officer acting in an 
                official capacity.
    ``(b) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) Flight.--The term `flight' means, with respect to an 
        aircraft, the period beginning when the aircraft takes off and 
        ending when the aircraft lands.
            ``(2) Mobile communications device.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The term `mobile communications 
                device' means any portable wireless telecommunications 
                equipment utilized for the transmission or reception of 
                voice data.
                    ``(B) Limitation.--The term `mobile communications 
                device' does not include a phone installed on an 
                aircraft.''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to 
section 41724 the following:

``41725. Prohibition on certain cell phone voice communications.''.

SEC. 403. ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR AVIATION CONSUMER PROTECTION.

    Section 411 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 42301 prec. note) is amended--
            (1) in subsection (b)--
                    (A) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as 
                paragraphs (4) and (5), respectively; and
                    (B) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
            ``(3) independent distributors of travel;'';
            (2) in subsection (g) by striking ``first 2 calendar 
        years'' and inserting ``first 6 calendar years''; and
            (3) in subsection (h) by striking ``2018'' and inserting 
        ``2023''.

SEC. 404. IMPROVED NOTIFICATION OF INSECTICIDE USE.

    Section 42303(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
    ``(b) Required Disclosures.--An air carrier, foreign air carrier, 
or ticket agent selling, in the United States, a ticket for a flight in 
foreign air transportation to a country listed on the internet website 
established under subsection (a) shall--
            ``(1) disclose, on its own internet website or through 
        other means, that the destination country may require the air 
        carrier or foreign air carrier to treat an aircraft passenger 
        cabin with insecticides prior to the flight or to apply an 
        aerosol insecticide in an aircraft cabin used for such a flight 
        when the cabin is occupied with passengers; and
            ``(2) refer the purchaser of the ticket to the internet 
        website established under subsection (a) for additional 
        information.''.

SEC. 405. ADVERTISEMENTS AND DISCLOSURE OF FEES FOR PASSENGER AIR 
              TRANSPORTATION.

    (a) Full Fare Advertising.--
            (1) In general.--Section 41712 of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(d) Full Fare Advertising.--
            ``(1) In general.--It shall not be an unfair or deceptive 
        practice under subsection (a) for a covered entity to state in 
        an advertisement or solicitation for passenger air 
        transportation the base airfare for the air transportation if 
        the covered entity clearly and separately discloses--
                    ``(A) the government-imposed fees and taxes 
                associated with the air transportation; and
                    ``(B) the total cost of the air transportation.
            ``(2) Form of disclosure.--
                    ``(A) In general.--For purposes of paragraph (1), 
                the information described in paragraphs (1)(A) and 
                (1)(B) shall be disclosed in the advertisement or 
                solicitation in a manner that clearly presents the 
                information to the consumer.
                    ``(B) Internet advertisements and solicitations.--
                For purposes of paragraph (1), with respect to an 
                advertisement or solicitation for passenger air 
                transportation that appears on an internet website or a 
                mobile application, the information described in 
                paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B) may be disclosed through a 
                link or pop-up, as such terms may be defined by the 
                Secretary, that displays the information in a manner 
                that is easily accessible and viewable by the consumer.
            ``(3) Definitions.--In this subsection, the following 
        definitions apply:
                    ``(A) Base airfare.--The term `base airfare' means 
                the cost of passenger air transportation, excluding 
                government-imposed fees and taxes.
                    ``(B) Covered entity.--The term `covered entity' 
                means an air carrier, including an indirect air 
                carrier, foreign air carrier, ticket agent, or other 
                person offering to sell tickets for passenger air 
                transportation or a tour or tour component that must be 
                purchased with air transportation.''.
            (2) Limitation on statutory construction.--Nothing in the 
        amendment made by paragraph (1) may be construed to affect any 
        obligation of a person that sells air transportation to 
        disclose the total cost of the air transportation, including 
        government-imposed fees and taxes, prior to purchase of the air 
        transportation.
            (3) Regulations.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
        issue final regulations to carry out the amendment made by 
        paragraph (1).
            (4) Effective date.--This subsection, and the amendments 
        made by this subsection, shall take effect on the earlier of--
                    (A) the effective date of regulations issued under 
                paragraph (3); and
                    (B) the date that is 180 days after the date of 
                enactment of this Act.
    (b) Disclosure of Fees.--Section 41712 of title 49, United States 
Code, as amended by this section, is further amended by adding at the 
end the following:
    ``(e) Disclosure of Fees.--
            ``(1) In general.--It shall be an unfair or deceptive 
        practice under subsection (a) for any air carrier, foreign air 
        carrier, or ticket agent to fail to include, in an internet 
        fare quotation for a specific itinerary in air transportation 
        selected by a consumer--
                    ``(A) a clear and prominent statement that 
                additional fees for checked baggage and carry-on 
                baggage may apply; and
                    ``(B) a prominent link that connects directly to a 
                list of all such fees.
            ``(2) Savings provision.--Nothing in this subsection may be 
        construed to derogate or limit any responsibilities of an air 
        carrier, foreign air carrier, or ticket agent under section 
        399.85 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or any 
        successor provision.''.

SEC. 406. INVOLUNTARILY BUMPING PASSENGERS AFTER AIRCRAFT BOARDED.

    Section 41712 of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this 
Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(f) Involuntarily Denied Boarding After Aircraft Boarded.--
            ``(1) In general.--It shall be an unfair or deceptive 
        practice under subsection (a) for an air carrier or foreign air 
        carrier subject to part 250 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, to involuntarily deplane a revenue passenger 
        onboard an aircraft, if the revenue passenger--
                    ``(A) is traveling on a confirmed reservation; and
                    ``(B) checked-in for the relevant flight prior to 
                the check-in deadline.
            ``(2) Savings provision.--Nothing in this subsection may be 
        construed to limit the authority of an air carrier, foreign air 
        carrier, or airman to remove a passenger in accordance with--
                    ``(A) section 91.3, 121.533(d), or 121.580 of title 
                14, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor 
                provision; or
                    ``(B) any other applicable Federal, State, or local 
                law.''.

SEC. 407. AVAILABILITY OF CONSUMER RIGHTS INFORMATION.

    Section 42302(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking ``on 
        the'' and inserting ``in a prominent place on the homepage of 
        the primary'';
            (2) in paragraph (2) by striking ``and'' at the end;
            (3) in paragraph (3) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
            (4) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(4) the air carrier's customer service plan.''.

SEC. 408. CONSUMER COMPLAINTS HOTLINE.

    Section 42302 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(d) Use of New Technologies.--The Secretary shall periodically 
evaluate the benefits of using mobile phone applications or other 
widely used technologies to provide new means for air passengers to 
communicate complaints in addition to the telephone number established 
under subsection (a) and shall provide such new means as the Secretary 
determines appropriate.''.

SEC. 409. WIDESPREAD DISRUPTIONS.

    (a) In General.--Chapter 423 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 42304. Widespread disruptions
    ``(a) General Requirements.--In the event of a widespread 
disruption, a covered air carrier shall immediately publish, via a 
prominent link on the air carrier's public internet website, a clear 
statement indicating whether, with respect to a passenger of the air 
carrier whose travel is interrupted as a result of the widespread 
disruption, the air carrier will--
            ``(1) provide for hotel accommodations;
            ``(2) arrange for ground transportation;
            ``(3) provide meal vouchers;
            ``(4) arrange for air transportation on another air carrier 
        or foreign air carrier to the passenger's destination; and
            ``(5) provide for sleeping facilities inside the airport 
        terminal.
    ``(b) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) Widespread disruption.--The term `widespread 
        disruption' means, with respect to a covered air carrier, the 
        interruption of all or the overwhelming majority of the air 
        carrier's systemwide flight operations, including flight delays 
        and cancellations, as the result of the failure of 1 or more 
        computer systems or computer networks of the air carrier.
            ``(2) Covered air carrier.--The term `covered air carrier' 
        means an air carrier that provides scheduled passenger air 
        transportation by operating an aircraft that as originally 
        designed has a passenger capacity of 30 or more seats.
    ``(c) Savings Provision.--Nothing in this section may be construed 
to modify, abridge, or repeal any obligation of an air carrier under 
section 42301.''.
    (b) Conforming Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 423 of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``42304. Widespread disruptions.''.

SEC. 410. INVOLUNTARILY DENIED BOARDING COMPENSATION.

    Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary of Transportation shall issue a final rule to revise part 250 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to clarify that--
            (1) there is not a maximum level of compensation an air 
        carrier or foreign air carrier may pay to a passenger who is 
        involuntarily denied boarding as the result of an oversold 
        flight;
            (2) the compensation levels set forth in that part are the 
        minimum levels of compensation an air carrier or foreign air 
        carrier must pay to a passenger who is involuntarily denied 
        boarding as the result of an oversold flight; and
            (3) an air carrier or foreign air carrier must proactively 
        offer to pay compensation to a passenger who is voluntarily or 
        involuntarily denied boarding on an oversold flight, rather 
        than waiting until the passenger requests the compensation.

SEC. 411. CONSUMER INFORMATION ON ACTUAL FLIGHT TIMES.

    (a) Study.--The Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a study 
on the feasibility and advisability of modifying regulations contained 
in section 234.11 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to ensure 
that--
            (1) a reporting carrier (including its contractors), during 
        the course of a reservation or ticketing discussion or other 
        inquiry, discloses to a consumer upon reasonable request the 
        projected period between the actual wheels-off and wheels-on 
        times for a reportable flight; and
            (2) a reporting carrier displays, on the public internet 
        website of the carrier, information on the actual wheels-off 
        and wheels-on times during the most recent calendar month for a 
        reportable flight.
    (b) Definitions.--In this section, the terms ``reporting carrier'' 
and ``reportable flight'' have the meanings given those terms in 
section 234.2 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on 
the date of enactment of this Act).
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
results of the study.

SEC. 412. ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR TRANSPARENCY IN AIR AMBULANCE 
              INDUSTRY.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish an 
advisory committee to make recommendations for a rulemaking--
            (1) to require air ambulance operators to clearly disclose 
        charges for air transportation services separately from charges 
        for non-air transportation services within any invoice or bill; 
        and
            (2) to provide other consumer protections for customers of 
        air ambulance operators.
    (b) Composition of the Advisory Committee.--The advisory committee 
shall be composed of the following members:
            (1) The Secretary of Transportation.
            (2) One representative, to be appointed by the Secretary, 
        of each of the following:
                    (A) Each relevant Federal agency, as determined by 
                the Secretary.
                    (B) State insurance regulators.
                    (C) Health insurance providers.
                    (D) Consumer groups.
            (3) Three representatives, to be appointed by the 
        Secretary, to represent the various segments of the air 
        ambulance industry.
    (c) Recommendations.--The advisory committee shall make 
recommendations with respect to each of the following:
            (1) Cost-allocation methodologies needed to ensure that 
        charges for air transportation services are separated from 
        charges for non-air transportation services.
            (2) Cost- or price-allocation methodologies to prevent 
        commingling of charges for air transportation services and 
        charges for non-air transportation services in bills and 
        invoices.
            (3) Formats for bills and invoices to ensure that customers 
        and State insurance regulators can clearly distinguish between 
        charges for air transportation services and charges for non-air 
        transportation services.
            (4) Data or industry references related to aircraft 
        operating costs to be used in determining the proper allocation 
        of charges for air transportation services and charges for non-
        air transportation services.
            (5) Guidance materials to instruct States, political 
        subdivisions of States, and political authorities of 2 or more 
        States on referring to the Secretary allegations of unfair or 
        deceptive practices or unfair methods of competition by air 
        ambulance operators.
            (6) Protections for customers of air ambulance operators, 
        after consideration of the circumstances in which the services 
        of air ambulance operators are used.
            (7) Protections of proprietary cost data from inappropriate 
        public disclosure.
            (8) Such other matters as the Secretary determines 
        necessary or appropriate.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the first 
meeting of the advisory committee, the advisory committee shall submit 
to the Secretary, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate a report containing the 
recommendations made under subsection (c).
    (e) Rulemaking.--Not later than 180 days after the date of receipt 
of the report under subsection (d), the Secretary shall consider the 
recommendations of the advisory committee and issue a final rule--
            (1) to require air ambulance operators to clearly disclose 
        charges for air transportation services separately from charges 
        for non-air transportation services within any invoice or bill; 
        and
            (2) to provide other consumer protections for customers of 
        air ambulance operators.
    (f) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Air ambulance operator.--The term ``air ambulance 
        operator'' means an air carrier operating pursuant to part 135 
        of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, that provides 
        medical, ambulance, or related services.
            (2) Non-air transportation services.--The term ``non-air 
        transportation services'' means those services provided by air 
        ambulance operators but not other air carriers operating 
        pursuant to part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    (g) Termination.--The advisory committee shall terminate on the 
date of submission of the report under subsection (d).
    (h) Nature of Air Ambulance Services.--The non-air transportation 
services of air ambulance operators and prices thereof are neither 
services nor prices of an air carrier for purposes of section 41713 of 
title 49, United States Code.

SEC. 413. AIR AMBULANCE COMPLAINTS.

    (a) Consumer Complaints.--Section 42302 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
            (1) in subsection (a) by inserting ``(including 
        transportation by air ambulance)'' after ``air 
        transportation'';
            (2) in subsection (b)--
                    (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
                            (i) by inserting ``, and an air ambulance 
                        operator,'' after ``passenger seats''; and
                            (ii) by inserting ``or operator'' after 
                        ``Internet Web site of the carrier''; and
                    (B) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``or operator'' 
                after ``mailing address of the air carrier''; and
            (3) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
    ``(c) Notice to Passengers on Boarding or Billing Documentation.--
            ``(1) Air carriers and foreign air carriers.--An air 
        carrier or foreign air carrier providing scheduled air 
        transportation using any aircraft that as originally designed 
        has a passenger capacity of 30 or more passenger seats shall 
        include the hotline telephone number established under 
        subsection (a) on--
                    ``(A) prominently displayed signs of the carrier at 
                the airport ticket counters in the United States where 
                the air carrier operates; and
                    ``(B) any electronic confirmation of the purchase 
                of a passenger ticket for air transportation issued by 
                the air carrier.
            ``(2) Air ambulance operators.--An air ambulance operator 
        shall include the hotline telephone number established under 
        subsection (a) on any invoice, bill, or other communication 
        provided to a passenger or customer of the operator.''.
    (b) Unfair and Deceptive Practices and Unfair Methods of 
Competition.--Section 41712(a) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
            (1) by inserting ``air ambulance customer,'' after 
        ``foreign air carrier,'' the first place it appears; and
            (2) by adding at the end the following: ``In this 
        subsection, the term `air carrier' includes an air ambulance 
        operator and the term `air transportation' includes any 
        transportation provided by an air ambulance.''.

SEC. 414. PASSENGER RIGHTS.

    (a) Guidelines.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall require each air 
carrier to submit for approval a 1-page document that accurately 
describes the rights of passengers in air transportation, including 
guidelines for the following:
            (1) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, 
        meals, and lodging) for flight delays of various lengths.
            (2) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, 
        meals, and lodging) for flight diversions.
            (3) Compensation (regarding rebooking options, refunds, 
        meals, and lodging) for flight cancellations.
            (4) Compensation for mishandled baggage, including delayed, 
        damaged, pilfered, or lost baggage.
            (5) Voluntary relinquishment of a ticketed seat due to 
        overbooking or priority of other passengers.
            (6) Involuntary denial of boarding and forced removal for 
        whatever reason, including for safety and security reasons.
    (b) Approval of Guidelines.--Not later than 90 days after each air 
carrier submits its guidelines for approval to the Secretary under 
subsection (a), the air carrier shall make available such 1-page 
document on its website.

SEC. 415. ENHANCED TRAINING OF FLIGHT ATTENDANTS.

    Section 44734(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (3) by striking ``and'' at the end;
            (2) in paragraph (4) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(5) dealing with allegations of sexual misconduct.''.

SEC. 416. ADDRESSING SEXUAL MISCONDUCT ON FLIGHTS.

    (a) Establishment of Working Group.--The Secretary of 
Transportation shall establish a sexual misconduct incident working 
group composed of aviation industry stakeholders, relevant Federal 
agencies, national organizations that specialize in providing services 
to victims of sexual misconduct, labor organizations that represent 
relevant aviation employees, and State and local law enforcement 
agencies.
    (b) Purpose of Working Group.--The purpose of the working group 
shall be to develop best practices for--
            (1) addressing sexual misconduct on flights;
            (2) airline employee training; and
            (3) protocols for law enforcement notification.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the working group shall submit a report describing the best 
practices developed pursuant to subsection (b) to the Secretary, the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate.
    (d) Sunset.--The working group established pursuant to subsection 
(a) shall terminate 60 days after the submission of the report pursuant 
to subsection (c).

SEC. 417. OVERBOOKING POLICIES OF AIR CARRIERS.

    (a) Study.--The Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a study 
on the overbooking policies of air carriers and how the policies impact 
the United States economy.
    (b) Contents.--In conducting the study, the Secretary shall assess 
the effects of the overbooking policies on increasing or decreasing the 
costs of passenger air transportation.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the 
results of the study.

SEC. 418. TRAINING POLICIES REGARDING RACIAL, ETHNIC, AND RELIGIOUS 
              NONDISCRIMINATION.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall submit to Congress a report describing--
            (1) each air carrier's training policy for its employees 
        and contractors regarding racial, ethnic, and religious 
        nondiscrimination; and
            (2) how frequently an air carrier is required to train new 
        employees and contractors because of turnover in positions that 
        require such training.
    (b) Best Practices.--After the date the report is submitted under 
subsection (1), the Secretary of Transportation shall develop and 
disseminate to air carriers best practices nevessary to improve the 
training policies described in subsection (a), based on the findings of 
the report and in consultation with--
            (1) passengers of diverse racial, ethnic, and religious 
        backgrounds;
            (2) national organizations that represent impacted 
        communities;
            (3) air carrier;
            (4) airport operators; and
            (5) contract service providers.

SEC. 419. AVIATION CONSUMER ADVOCATE AND COMPLAINT RESOLUTION 
              IMPROVEMENT.

    (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall review 
aviation consumer complaints received that allege a violation of law 
and, as appropriate, pursue enforcement or corrective actions that 
would be in the public interest.
    (b) Considerations.--In considering which cases to pursue for 
enforcement or corrective action under subsection (a), the Secretary 
shall consider--
            (1) the requirements of the Air Carrier Access Act of 1986 
        (Public Law 99-435; 100 Stat. 1080);
            (2) unfair and deceptive practices by air carriers, foreign 
        air carriers, and ticket agents;
            (3) the terms and conditions agreed to between passengers 
        and air carriers, foreign air carriers, or ticket agents;
            (4) aviation consumer protection and tarmac delay 
        contingency planning requirements for both airports and 
        airlines; and
            (5) any other applicable law.
    (c) Aviation Consumer Advocate.--
            (1) In general.--Within the Aviation Consumer Protection 
        Division of the Department of Transportation, there shall be 
        established the position of Aviation Consumer Advocate.
            (2) Functions.--The Aviation Consumer Advocate shall--
                    (A) assist consumers in resolving carrier service 
                complaints filed with the Aviation Consumer Protection 
                Division;
                    (B) evaluate the resolution by the Department of 
                Transportation of carrier service complaints;
                    (C) identify and recommend actions the Department 
                can take to improve the enforcement of aviation 
                consumer protection rules and resolution of carrier 
                service complaints; and
                    (D) identify and recommend regulations and policies 
                that can be amended to more effectively resolve carrier 
                service complaints.
    (d) Annual Reports.--The Secretary, acting through the Aviation 
Consumer Advocate, shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives an annual report 
summarizing the following:
            (1) The total number of annual complaints received by the 
        Secretary, including the number of complaints by the name of 
        each air carrier and foreign air carrier.
            (2) The total number of annual complaints by category of 
        complaint.
            (3) The number of complaints referred in the preceding year 
        for enforcement or correction action by the Secretary.
            (4) Any recommendations under subparagraphs (C) and (D) of 
        subsection (c)(2).
            (5) Such other data as the Aviation Consumer Advocate 
        considers appropriate.

            Subtitle B--Aviation Consumers With Disabilities

SEC. 441. SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE.

    Section 411 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
U.S.C. 42301 prec. note), as amended by this Act, is further amended--
            (1) by redesignating subsections (g) and (h) as subsections 
        (h) and (i), respectively; and
            (2) by inserting after subsection (f) the following:
    ``(g) Select Subcommittee for Aviation Consumers With 
Disabilities.--
            ``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish a select 
        subcommittee of the advisory committee to advise the Secretary 
        and the advisory committee on issues related to the air travel 
        needs of passengers with disabilities.
            ``(2) Duties.--The select subcommittee shall--
                    ``(A) identify the disability-related access 
                barriers encountered by passengers with disabilities;
                    ``(B) determine the extent to which the programs 
                and activities of the Department of Transportation are 
                addressing the barriers identified under subparagraph 
                (A);
                    ``(C) recommend consumer protection improvements 
                related to the air travel experience of passengers with 
                disabilities;
                    ``(D) advise the Secretary with regard to the 
                implementation of section 41705 of title 49, United 
                States Code; and
                    ``(E) conduct such other activities as the 
                Secretary considers necessary to carry out this 
                subsection.
            ``(3) Membership.--
                    ``(A) Composition.--The select subcommittee shall 
                be composed of members appointed by the Secretary, 
                including at least 1 individual representing each of 
                the following:
                            ``(i) National disability organizations.
                            ``(ii) Air carriers and foreign air 
                        carriers with flights in air transportation.
                            ``(iii) Airport operators.
                            ``(iv) Contractor service providers.
                    ``(B) Inclusion.--A member of the select 
                subcommittee may also be a member of the advisory 
                committee.
            ``(4) Reports.--
                    ``(A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the 
                date of establishment of the select subcommittee, the 
                select subcommittee shall submit to the advisory 
                committee and the Secretary a report on the air travel 
                needs of passengers with disabilities that includes--
                            ``(i) an assessment of existing disability-
                        related access barriers and any emerging 
                        disability-related access barriers that will 
                        likely be an issue in the next 5 years;
                            ``(ii) an evaluation of the extent to which 
                        the programs and activities of the Department 
                        of Transportation are eliminating disability-
                        related access barriers;
                            ``(iii) a description of consumer 
                        protection improvements related to the air 
                        travel experience of passengers with 
                        disabilities; and
                            ``(iv) any recommendations for legislation, 
                        regulations, or other actions that the select 
                        subcommittee considers appropriate.
                    ``(B) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 days 
                after the date on which the Secretary receives the 
                report under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall 
                submit to Congress a copy of the report, including any 
                additional findings or recommendations that the 
                Secretary considers appropriate.
            ``(5) Chairperson.--The Secretary shall designate, from 
        among the individuals appointed under paragraph (3), an 
        individual to serve as chairperson of the select subcommittee.
            ``(6) Vacancies and travel expenses.--Subsections (c) and 
        (d) shall apply to the select subcommittee.
            ``(7) Termination.--The select subcommittee established 
        under this subsection shall terminate upon submission of the 
        report required under paragraph (4)(A).''.

SEC. 442. AVIATION CONSUMERS WITH DISABILITIES STUDY.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a 
study that includes--
            (1) a review of airport accessibility best practices for 
        individuals with disabilities, including best practices that 
        improve infrastructure facilities and communications methods, 
        including those related to wayfinding, amenities, and passenger 
        care;
            (2) a review of air carrier and airport training policies 
        related to section 41705 of title 49, United States Code;
            (3) a review of air carrier training policies related to 
        properly assisting passengers with disabilities; and
            (4) a review of accessibility best practices that exceed 
        those recommended under Public Law 90-480 (popularly known as 
        the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968; 42 U.S.C. 4151 et 
        seq.), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.), 
        the Air Carrier Access Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-435; 100 
        Stat. 1080 et seq.), and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 
        1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.).
    (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Secretary of 
Transportation, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate a report on the study, including 
findings and recommendations.

SEC. 443. FEASIBILITY STUDY ON IN-CABIN WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINT SYSTEMS.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the 
Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, aircraft 
manufacturers, and air carriers, shall conduct a study to determine--
            (1) the feasibility of in-cabin wheelchair restraint 
        systems; and
            (2) if feasible, the ways in which individuals with 
        significant disabilities using wheelchairs, including power 
        wheelchairs, can be accommodated with in-cabin wheelchair 
        restraint systems.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the initiation of the 
study under subsection (a), the Secretary of Transportation shall 
submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the findings of the study.

SEC. 444. AIRLINE PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES BILL OF RIGHTS.

    (a) In General.--Chapter 423 of title 49, United States Code, as 
amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``Sec. 42305. Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill of Rights
    ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall develop a 
document, to be known as the `Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill 
of Rights', that describes in plain language--
            ``(1) the basic responsibilities of covered carriers, 
        including their employees and contractors, under section 41705; 
        and
            ``(2) the protections of air passengers with disabilities 
        under section 41705.
    ``(b) Content.--In developing the Bill of Rights, the Secretary 
shall include, at a minimum, plain language descriptions of 
responsibilities and protections provided in law related to--
            ``(1) the right of passengers with disabilities to be 
        treated with dignity and respect;
            ``(2) the right of passengers with disabilities to receive 
        timely assistance, if requested, from properly trained 
        personnel of covered carriers and their contractors;
            ``(3) the right of passengers with disabilities to travel 
        with and stow wheelchairs, mobility aids, and other assistive 
        devices, including necessary medications and medical supplies;
            ``(4) the right of passengers with disabilities to receive 
        seating accommodations, if requested, to accommodate a 
        disability;
            ``(5) the right of passengers with disabilities to speak 
        with a complaint resolution officer or to file a complaint with 
        a covered carrier or the Department of Transportation; and
            ``(6) the right of passengers with disabilities to 
        communications in an accessible format as required under 
        Federal regulations.
    ``(c) Rule of Construction.--The development of the Bill of Rights 
may not be construed as expanding or restricting the rights available 
to passengers with disabilities on the day before the date of enactment 
of this section pursuant to any statute or regulation.
    ``(d) Consultations.--In developing the Bill of Rights, the 
Secretary shall consult with appropriate stakeholders, including 
disability organizations and covered carriers.
    ``(e) Display.--Each covered carrier shall include the Bill of 
Rights--
            ``(1) on a publicly available internet website of the 
        covered carrier; and
            ``(2) in any pre-flight notification or communication 
        provided to a passenger who alerts the covered carrier in 
        advance of the need for accommodations relating to a 
        disability.
    ``(f) Training.--Covered carriers shall submit to the Secretary 
plans to ensure that their employees and contractors receive training 
on the responsibilities and protections described in the Bill of 
Rights. The Secretary shall review such plans to ensure the plans 
address the matters described in subsection (b).
    ``(g) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions 
apply:
            ``(1) Bill of rights.--The term `Bill of Rights' means the 
        `Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill of Rights' developed 
        under subsection (a).
            ``(2) Covered carrier.--The term `covered carrier' means an 
        air carrier or foreign air carrier, as those terms are defined 
        in section 40102(a).''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 423 of title 49, 
United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:

``42305. Airline Passengers With Disabilities Bill of Rights.''.

SEC. 445. CIVIL PENALTIES RELATING TO HARM TO PASSENGERS WITH 
              DISABILITIES.

    Section 46301(a) of title 49, United States Code, is further 
amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(7) Penalties Relating to Harm to Passengers With Disabilities.--
            ``(A) Penalty for bodily harm or damage to wheelchair or 
        other mobility aid.--The amount of a civil penalty assessed 
        under this section for a violation of section 41705 may be 
        increased above the otherwise applicable maximum amount under 
        this section to an amount not to exceed 3 times the maximum 
        civil penalty otherwise allowed if the violation involves--
                    ``(i) injury to a passenger with a disability; or
                    ``(ii) damage to the passenger's wheelchair or 
                other mobility aid.
            ``(B) Separate offences.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a 
        separate violation of section 41705 occurs for each act of 
        discrimination prohibited by that section.''.

SEC. 446. HARMONIZATION OF SERVICE ANIMAL STANDARDS.

    (a) Rulemaking.--The Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a 
rulemaking proceeding--
            (1) to define the term ``service animal'' for purposes of 
        air transportation; and
            (2) to develop minimum standards for what is required for 
        service and emotional support animals carried in aircraft 
        cabins.
    (b) Considerations.--In conducting the rulemaking under subsection 
(a), the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum--
            (1) whether to align the definition of ``service animal'' 
        with the definition of that term in regulations of the 
        Department of Justice implementing the Americans with 
        Disabilities Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-336);
            (2) reasonable measures to ensure pets are not claimed as 
        service animals, such as--
                    (A) whether to require photo identification for a 
                service animal identifying the type of animal, the 
                breed of animal, and the service the animal provides to 
                the passenger;
                    (B) whether to require documentation indicating 
                whether or not a service animal was trained by the 
                owner or an approved training organization;
                    (C) whether to require, from a licensed physician, 
                documentation indicating the mitigating task or tasks a 
                service animal provides to its owner; and
                    (D) whether to allow a passenger to be accompanied 
                by more than 1 service animal;
            (3) reasonable measures to ensure the safety of all 
        passengers, such as--
                    (A) whether to require health and vaccination 
                records for a service animal; and
                    (B) whether to require third-party proof of 
                behavioral training for a service animal;
            (4) the impact additional requirements on service animals 
        could have on access to air transportation for passengers with 
        disabilities; and
            (5) if impacts on access to air transportation for 
        passengers with disabilities are found, ways to eliminate or 
        mitigate those impacts.
    (c) Final Rule.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a final rule pursuant 
to the rulemaking conducted under this section.

SEC. 447. REGULATIONS ENSURING ASSISTANCE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH 
              DISABILITIES IN AIR TRANSPORTATION.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall--
            (1) review, and if necessary revise, applicable regulations 
        to ensure that individuals with disabilities who request 
        assistance while traveling in air transportation receive 
        dignified, timely, and effective assistance at airports and on 
        aircraft from trained personnel; and
            (2) review, and if necessary revise, applicable regulations 
        related to air carrier training programs for air carrier 
        personnel, including contractors, who provide physical 
        assistance to passengers with disabilities to ensure that 
        training under such programs--
                    (A) occurs on an appropriate schedule for all new 
                and continuing personnel charged with providing 
                physical assistance; and
                    (B) includes, as appropriate, instruction by 
                personnel, with hands-on training for employees who 
                physically lift or otherwise physically assist 
                passengers with disabilities, including the use of 
                relevant equipment.
    (b) Types of Assistance.--The assistance referred to subsection 
(a)(1) may include requests for assistance in boarding or deplaning an 
aircraft, requests for assistance in connecting between flights, and 
other similar or related requests, as appropriate.
    (c) Air Carrier Defined.--In this section, the term ``air carrier'' 
means an air carrier or foreign air carrier (as those terms are defined 
in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code).

                Subtitle C--Small Community Air Service

SEC. 451. ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE AUTHORIZATION.

    Section 41742(a)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``$150,000,000 for fiscal year 2011'' and all that follows 
before ``to carry out'' and inserting ``$155,000,000 for fiscal year 
2018, $158,000,000 for fiscal year 2019, $161,000,000 for fiscal year 
2020, $165,000,000 for fiscal year 2021, $168,000,000 for fiscal year 
2022, and $172,000,000 for fiscal year 2023''.

SEC. 452. EXTENSION OF FINAL ORDER ESTABLISHING MILEAGE ADJUSTMENT 
              ELIGIBILITY.

    Section 409(d) of the Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
Reauthorization Act (49 U.S.C. 41731 note) is amended by striking 
``2018'' and inserting ``2023''.

SEC. 453. STUDY ON ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE REFORM.

    (a) Study.--
            (1) In general.--The Comptroller General of the United 
        States shall conduct a study on the effects of section 6 of the 
        Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2011, Part IV (Public Law 
        112-27), section 421 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 
        2012 (Public Law 112-95), and other relevant Federal laws 
        enacted after 2010, including the amendments made by those 
        laws, on the Essential Air Service program.
            (2) Scope.--In conducting the study under paragraph (1), 
        the Comptroller General shall analyze, at a minimum--
                    (A) the impact of each relevant Federal law, 
                including the amendments made by each law, on the 
                Essential Air Service program;
                    (B) what actions communities and air carriers have 
                taken to reduce ticket prices or increase enplanements 
                as a result of each law;
                    (C) the issuance of waivers by the Secretary under 
                section 41731(e) of title 49, United States Code;
                    (D) whether budgetary savings resulted from each 
                law; and
                    (E) options for further reform of the Essential Air 
                Service program.
    (b) Required Analysis on Communities.--In carrying out subsection 
(a)(2)(E) the Comptroller General shall include, for each option for 
further reform, an analysis of the impact on local economies of 
communities with airports receiving Essential Air Service funding, 
access to air travel for residents of rural communities and the impact 
to local businesses in such communities.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).

SEC. 454. SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE.

    (a) Eligibility.--Section 41743(c) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended--
            (1) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
            ``(1) Size.--On the date of submission of the relevant 
        application under subsection (b), the airport serving the 
        community or consortium--
                    ``(A) is not larger than a small hub airport, as 
                determined using the Department of Transportation's 
                most recently published classification; and
                    ``(B) has--
                            ``(i) insufficient air carrier service; or
                            ``(ii) unreasonably high air fares.'';
            (2) in paragraph (4)--
                    (A) by striking ``once,'' and inserting ``once in a 
                10-year period,''; and
                    (B) by inserting ``at any time'' after ``different 
                project''; and
            (3) in paragraph (5)--
                    (A) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as 
                subparagraphs (F) and (G), respectively; and
                    (B) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the 
                following:
                    ``(E) the assistance will be used to help restore 
                scheduled passenger air service that has been 
                terminated;''.
    (b) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 41743(e)(2) of title 
49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
            ``(2) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized 
        to be appropriated to the Secretary $10,000,000 for each of 
        fiscal years 2018 through 2023 to carry out this section, of 
        which $4,800,000 per fiscal year shall be used to carry out the 
        pilot program established under subsection (i). Such sums shall 
        remain available until expended.''.
    (c) Regional Air Transportation Pilot Program.--Section 41743 of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
    ``(i) Regional Air Transportation Pilot Program.--
            ``(1) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a 
        regional air transportation pilot program to provide operating 
        assistance to air carriers in order to provide air service to 
        communities not receiving sufficient air carrier service.
            ``(2) Grants.--The Secretary shall provide grants under the 
        program to encourage and maintain air service at reasonable 
        airfares between communities that have experienced, as 
        determined by the Secretary, significant declines in air 
        service.
            ``(3) Application required.--In order to participate in the 
        program, a State, local government, economic development 
        authority, or other public entity shall submit to the Secretary 
        an application, in a manner that the Secretary prescribes, that 
        contains--
                    ``(A) an identification of an air carrier that has 
                provided a written agreement to provide the air service 
                in partnership with the applicant;
                    ``(B) assurances that the applicant will provide 
                the non-Federal share and that the non-Federal share is 
                not derived from airport revenue;
                    ``(C) a proposed route structure serving not more 
                than 8 communities; and
                    ``(D) a timeline for commencing the air service to 
                the communities within the proposed route structure.
            ``(4) Criteria for participation.--The Secretary may 
        approve up to 3 applications each fiscal year, subject to the 
        availability of funds, if the Secretary determines that--
                    ``(A) the proposal of the applicant can reasonably 
                be expected to encourage and improve levels of air 
                service between the relevant communities;
                    ``(B) the applicant has adequate financial 
                resources to ensure the commitment to the communities;
                    ``(C) the airports serving the communities are 
                nonhub, small hub, or medium hub airports, as 
                determined using the Department of Transportation's 
                most recently published classifications; and
                    ``(D) the air carrier commits to serving the 
                communities for at least 2 years.
            ``(5) Priorities.--The Secretary shall prioritize 
        applications that--
                    ``(A) would initiate new or reestablish air service 
                in communities where air fares are higher than the 
                average air fares for all communities;
                    ``(B) are more likely to result in self-sustaining 
                air service at the end of the program;
                    ``(C) request a Federal share lower than 50 
                percent; and
                    ``(D) propose to use grant funds in a timely 
                fashion.
            ``(6) Federal share.--The Federal share of the cost of 
        operating assistance provided under the program may not exceed 
        50 percent.
            ``(7) Sunset.--This subsection shall cease to be effective 
        on October 1, 2023.''.

SEC. 455. AIR TRANSPORTATION TO NONELIGIBLE PLACES.

    (a) Definitions.--Section 41731(a)(1)(A)(ii) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``Wendell H. Ford Aviation 
Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century,'' and inserting ``FAA 
Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-190),''.
    (b) Program Sunset.--Section 41736 of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(h) Sunset.--
            ``(1) Proposals.--No proposal under subsection (a) may be 
        accepted by the Secretary after the date of enactment of this 
        subsection.
            ``(2) Program.--The Secretary may not provide any 
        compensation under this section after the date that is 2 years 
        after the date of enactment of this subsection.''.

SEC. 456. AUTHORIZATION OF CERTAIN FLIGHTS BY STAGE 2 AIRPLANES.

    (a) In General.--Notwithstanding section 47534 of title 49, United 
States Code, not late than 180 days after the date of the enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall initiate a pilot program to permit the operator of a Stage 2 
airplane to operate that airplane in revenue and nonrevenue service 
into medium hub airports or nonhub airports if--
            (1) the airport--
                    (A) is certified under part 139 of 14, Code of 
                Federal Regulations;
                    (B) has a runway that--
                            (i) is longer than 8,000 feet and not less 
                        than 200 feet wide; and
                            (ii) is load bearing with a pavement 
                        classification number of not less than 38;
                    (C) has a maintenance facility with a maintenance 
                certificate issued under part 145 of such title; and
                    (D) certifies annually to the Administrator that 
                the airport intends to continue participating in the 
                pilot program;
            (2) the operator of the Stage 2 airplane operates not more 
        than 10 flights per month using that airplane; and
            (3) revenue flights will be limited to flights transporting 
        specific and necessary equipment to maintain or improve the 
        vital industry of small rural communities.
    (b) Termination.--The regulations required by subsection (a) shall 
terminate on the earlier of--
            (1) the date that is 10 years after the date of the 
        enactment of the Act; or
            (2) the date on which the Administrator determines that no 
        Stage 2 airplane remain in service.
    (c) Definitions.--In this section:
            (1) Medium hub airport; nonhub aiport.--The terms ``medium 
        hub airport'' and ``nonhub airport'' have the meanings given 
        those terms in section 40102 of the title 49, United States 
        Code.
            (2) Stage 2 airplane.--The term ``Stage 2 airplane'' has 
        the meaning given that term in section 91.851 of title 14, Code 
        of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the day before the date 
        of the enactment of this Act).

                         TITLE V--MISCELLANEOUS

SEC. 501. REVIEW OF FAA STRATEGIC CYBERSECURITY PLAN.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall initiate a review of the comprehensive and strategic framework of 
principles and policies (referred to in this section as the 
``framework'') developed pursuant to section 2111 of the FAA Extension, 
Safety, and Security Act of 2016 (49 U.S.C. 44903 note).
    (b) Contents.--In undertaking the review under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall--
            (1) assess the degree to which the framework identifies and 
        addresses known cybersecurity risks associated with the 
        aviation system;
            (2) review existing short- and long-term objectives for 
        addressing cybersecurity risks to the national airspace system; 
        and
            (3) assess the Administration's level of engagement and 
        coordination with aviation stakeholders and other appropriate 
        agencies, organizations, or groups with which the 
        Administration consults to carry out the framework.
    (c) Updates.--Upon completion of the review under subsection (a), 
the Administrator shall modify the framework, as appropriate, to 
address any deficiencies identified by the review.
    (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after initiating 
the review required by subsection (a), the Administrator shall submit 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the review, 
including a description of any modifications made to the framework.

SEC. 502. CONSOLIDATION AND REALIGNMENT OF FAA SERVICES AND FACILITIES.

    (a) Purpose and Input.--Section 804(a) of the FAA Modernization and 
Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44501 note) is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (2) by striking ``The purpose of the 
        report shall be--'' and all that follows through ``(B) to 
        reduce'' and inserting ``The purpose of the report shall be to 
        reduce''; and
            (2) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:
            ``(4) Input.--The report shall be prepared by the 
        Administrator (or the Administrator's designee) with the 
        participation of--
                    ``(A) representatives of labor organizations 
                representing air traffic control system employees of 
                the FAA; and
                    ``(B) industry stakeholders.''.
    (b) Military Operations Exclusion.--Section 804 of the FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44501 note) is 
amended--
            (1) by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (f); and
            (2) by inserting after subsection (d) the following:
    ``(e) Military Operations Exclusion.--
            ``(1) In general.--The Administrator may not realign or 
        consolidate a combined TRACON and tower with radar facility of 
        the FAA under this section if, in 2015, the total annual 
        military operations at the facility comprised at least 40 
        percent of the total annual TRACON operations at the facility.
            ``(2) TRACON defined.--In this subsection, the term 
        `TRACON' means terminal radar approach control.''.

SEC. 503. FAA REVIEW AND REFORM.

    (a) Agency Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a detailed analysis 
of any actions taken to address the findings and recommendations 
included in the report required under section 812(d) of the FAA 
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 106 note), including--
            (1) consolidating, phasing-out, or eliminating duplicative 
        positions, programs, roles, or offices;
            (2) eliminating or streamlining wasteful practices;
            (3) eliminating or phasing-out redundant, obsolete, or 
        unnecessary functions;
            (4) reforming and streamlining inefficient processes so 
        that the activities of the Administration are completed in an 
        expedited and efficient manner; and
            (5) reforming or eliminating ineffectual or outdated 
        policies.
    (b) Additional Review.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall undertake and complete a 
thorough review of each program, office, and organization within the 
Administration to identify--
            (1) duplicative positions, programs, roles, or offices;
            (2) wasteful practices;
            (3) redundant, obsolete, or unnecessary functions;
            (4) inefficient processes; and
            (5) ineffectual or outdated policies.
    (c) Actions To Streamline and Reform FAA.--Not later than 60 days 
after the date of completion of the review under subsection (b), the 
Administrator shall undertake such actions as may be necessary to 
address the findings of the Administrator under such subsection.
    (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
completion of the review under subsection (b), the Administrator shall 
submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the actions taken by the 
Administrator pursuant to subsection (c), including any recommendations 
for legislative or administrative actions.

SEC. 504. AVIATION FUEL.

    (a) Use of Unleaded Aviation Gasoline.--The Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall allow the use of an unleaded 
aviation gasoline in an aircraft as a replacement for a leaded gasoline 
if the Administrator--
            (1) determines that an unleaded aviation gasoline qualifies 
        as a replacement for an approved leaded gasoline;
            (2) identifies the aircraft and engines that are eligible 
        to use the qualified replacement unleaded gasoline; and
            (3) adopts a process (other than the traditional means of 
        certification) to allow eligible aircraft and engines to 
        operate using qualified replacement unleaded gasoline in a 
        manner that ensures safety.
    (b) Timing.--The Administrator shall adopt the process described in 
subsection (a)(3) not later than 180 days after the later of--
            (1) the date of completion of the Piston Aviation Fuels 
        Initiative of the Administration; or
            (2) the date of publication of an American Society for 
        Testing and Materials Production Specification for an unleaded 
        aviation gasoline.
    (c) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the Piston 
Aviation Fuels Initiative of the Administration and the American 
Society for Testing and Materials should work to find an appropriate 
unleaded aviation gasoline by January 1, 2024.

SEC. 505. RIGHT TO PRIVACY WHEN USING AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM.

    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator of 
the Federal Aviation Administration shall, upon request of a private 
aircraft owner or operator, block the registration number of the 
aircraft of the owner or operator from any public dissemination or 
display, except in data made available to a Government agency, for the 
noncommercial flights of the owner or operator.

SEC. 506. AIR SHOWS.

    On an annual basis, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall work with representatives of Administration-
approved air shows, the general aviation community, and stadiums and 
other large outdoor events and venues to identify and resolve, to the 
maximum extent practicable, scheduling conflicts between 
Administration-approved air shows and large outdoor events and venues 
where--
            (1) flight restrictions will be imposed pursuant to section 
        521 of title V of division F of Public Law 108-199 (118 Stat. 
        343); or
            (2) any other restriction will be imposed pursuant to 
        Federal Aviation Administration Flight Data Center Notice to 
        Airmen 4/3621 (or any successor notice to airmen).

SEC. 507. PART 91 REVIEW, REFORM, AND STREAMLINING.

    (a) Establishment of Task Force.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall establish a task force comprised of 
representatives of the general aviation industry who regularly perform 
part 91 operations, labor unions (including those representing FAA 
aviation safety inspectors and FAA aviation safety engineers), 
manufacturers, and the Government to--
            (1) conduct an assessment of the FAA oversight and 
        authorization processes and requirements for aircraft under 
        part 91; and
            (2) make recommendations to streamline the applicable 
        authorization and approval processes, improve safety, and 
        reduce regulatory cost burdens and delays for the FAA and 
        aircraft owners and operators who operate pursuant to part 91.
    (b) Contents.--In conducting the assessment and making 
recommendations under subsection (a), the task force shall consider--
            (1) process reforms and improvements to allow the FAA to 
        review and approve applications in a fair and timely fashion;
            (2) the appropriateness of requiring an authorization for 
        each experimental aircraft rather than using a broader all 
        makes and models approach;
            (3) ways to improve the timely response to letters of 
        authorization applications for aircraft owners and operators 
        who operate pursuant to part 91, including setting deadlines 
        and granting temporary or automatic authorizations if deadlines 
        are missed by the FAA;
            (4) methods for enhancing the effective use of delegation 
        systems;
            (5) methods for training the FAA's field office employees 
        in risk-based and safety management system oversight; and
            (6) such other matters related to streamlining part 91 
        authorization and approval processes as the task force 
        considers appropriate.
    (c) Report to Congress.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the 
        task force's assessment.
            (2) Contents.--The report shall include an explanation of 
        how the Administrator will--
                    (A) implement the recommendations of the task 
                force;
                    (B) measure progress in implementing the 
                recommendations; and
                    (C) measure the effectiveness of the implemented 
                recommendations.
    (d) Implementation of Recommendations.--Not later than 18 months 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall 
implement the recommendations made under this section.
    (e) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) FAA.--The term ``FAA'' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            (2) Part 91.--The term ``part 91'' means part 91 of title 
        14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    (f) Applicable Law.--Public Law 92-463 shall not apply to the task 
force.
    (g) Sunset.--The task force shall terminate on the day the 
Administrator submits the report required under subsection (c).

SEC. 508. AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall initiate 
a rulemaking to increase the duration of aircraft registrations for 
noncommercial general aviation aircraft to 10 years.

SEC. 509. AIR TRANSPORTATION OF LITHIUM CELLS AND BATTERIES.

    (a) Cooperative Efforts To Ensure Compliance With Safety 
Regulations.--
            (1) In general.--The Secretary of Transportation, in 
        coordination with appropriate Federal agencies, shall carry out 
        cooperative efforts to ensure that shippers who offer lithium 
        ion and lithium metal batteries for air transport to or from 
        the United States comply with U.S. Hazardous Materials 
        Regulations and ICAO Technical Instructions.
            (2) Cooperative efforts.--The cooperative efforts the 
        Secretary shall carry out pursuant to paragraph (1) include the 
        following:
                    (A) Encouraging training programs at locations 
                outside the United States from which substantial cargo 
                shipments of lithium ion or lithium metal batteries 
                originate for manufacturers, freight forwarders, and 
                other shippers and potential shippers of lithium ion 
                and lithium metal batteries.
                    (B) Working with Federal, regional, and 
                international transportation agencies to ensure 
                enforcement of U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations and 
                ICAO Technical Instructions with respect to shippers 
                who offer noncompliant shipments of lithium ion and 
                lithium metal batteries.
                    (C) Sharing information, as appropriate, with 
                Federal, regional, and international transportation 
                agencies regarding noncompliant shipments.
                    (D) Pursuing a joint effort with the international 
                aviation community to develop a process to obtain 
                assurances that appropriate enforcement actions are 
                taken to reduce the likelihood of noncompliant 
                shipments, especially with respect to jurisdictions in 
                which enforcement activities historically have been 
                limited.
                    (E) Providing information in brochures and on the 
                internet in appropriate foreign languages and dialects 
                that describes the actions required to comply with U.S. 
                Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical 
                Instructions.
                    (F) Developing joint efforts with the international 
                aviation community to promote a better understanding of 
                the requirements of and methods of compliance with U.S. 
                Hazardous Materials Regulations and ICAO Technical 
                Instructions.
            (3) Reporting.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for 2 years, the 
        Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
        Senate a report on compliance with the policy set forth in 
        subsection (e) and the cooperative efforts carried out, or 
        planned to be carried out, under this subsection.
    (b) Lithium Battery Air Safety Advisory Committee.--
            (1) Establishment.--Not later than 60 days after the date 
        of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish, in 
        accordance with the requirements of the Federal Advisory 
        Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), a lithium ion and lithium metal 
        battery air safety advisory committee (in this subsection 
        referred to as the ``Committee'').
            (2) Duties.--The Committee shall--
                    (A) facilitate communication between manufacturers 
                of lithium ion and lithium metal cells and batteries, 
                manufacturers of products incorporating both large and 
                small lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, air 
                carriers, and the Federal Government regarding the safe 
                air transportation of lithium ion and lithium metal 
                cells and batteries and the effectiveness and economic 
                and social impacts of the regulation of such 
                transportation;
                    (B) provide the Secretary, the Federal Aviation 
                Administration, and the Pipeline and Hazardous 
                Materials Safety Administration with timely information 
                about new lithium ion and lithium metal battery 
                technology and transportation safety practices and 
                methodologies;
                    (C) provide a forum for the Secretary to provide 
                information on and to discuss the activities of the 
                Department of Transportation relating to lithium ion 
                and lithium metal battery transportation safety, the 
                policies underlying the activities, and positions to be 
                advocated in international forums;
                    (D) provide a forum for the Secretary to provide 
                information and receive advice on--
                            (i) activities carried out throughout the 
                        world to communicate and enforce relevant 
                        United States regulations and the ICAO 
                        Technical Instructions; and
                            (ii) the effectiveness of the activities;
                    (E) provide advice and recommendations to the 
                Secretary with respect to lithium ion and lithium metal 
                battery air transportation safety, including how best 
                to implement activities to increase awareness of 
                relevant requirements and their importance to travelers 
                and shippers; and
                    (F) review methods to decrease the risk posed by 
                air shipment of undeclared hazardous materials and 
                efforts to educate those who prepare and offer 
                hazardous materials for shipment via air transport.
            (3) Membership.--The Committee shall be composed of the 
        following members:
                    (A) Individuals appointed by the Secretary to 
                represent--
                            (i) large volume manufacturers of lithium 
                        ion and lithium metal cells and batteries;
                            (ii) domestic manufacturers of lithium ion 
                        and lithium metal batteries or battery packs;
                            (iii) manufacturers of consumer products 
                        powered by lithium ion and lithium metal 
                        batteries;
                            (iv) manufacturers of vehicles powered by 
                        lithium ion and lithium metal batteries;
                            (v) marketers of products powered by 
                        lithium ion and lithium metal batteries;
                            (vi) cargo air service providers based in 
                        the United States;
                            (vii) passenger air service providers based 
                        in the United States;
                            (viii) pilots and employees of air service 
                        providers described in clauses (vi) and (vii);
                            (ix) shippers of lithium ion and lithium 
                        metal batteries for air transportation;
                            (x) manufacturers of battery-powered 
                        medical devices or batteries used in medical 
                        devices; and
                            (xi) employees of the Department of 
                        Transportation, including employees of the 
                        Federal Aviation Administration and the 
                        Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety 
                        Administration.
                    (B) Representatives of such other Government 
                departments and agencies as the Secretary determines 
                appropriate.
                    (C) Any other individuals the Secretary determines 
                are appropriate to comply with Federal law.
            (4) Report.--
                    (A) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the 
                establishment of the Committee, the Committee shall 
                submit to the Secretary, the Committee on 
                Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
                Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, 
                Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report 
                that--
                            (i) describes and evaluates the steps being 
                        taken in the private sector and by 
                        international regulatory authorities to 
                        implement and enforce requirements relating to 
                        the safe transportation by air of bulk 
                        shipments of lithium ion cells and batteries; 
                        and
                            (ii) identifies any areas of enforcement or 
                        regulatory requirements for which there is 
                        consensus that greater attention is needed.
                    (B) Independent statements.--Each member of the 
                Committee shall be provided an opportunity to submit an 
                independent statement of views with the report 
                submitted pursuant to subparagraph (A).
            (5) Meetings.--
                    (A) In general.--The Committee shall meet at the 
                direction of the Secretary and at least twice a year.
                    (B) Preparation for icao meetings.--Notwithstanding 
                subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall convene a meeting 
                of the Committee in connection with and in advance of 
                each meeting of the International Civil Aviation 
                Organization, or any of its panels or working groups, 
                addressing the safety of air transportation of lithium 
                ion and lithium metal batteries to brief Committee 
                members on positions to be taken by the United States 
                at such meeting and provide Committee members a 
                meaningful opportunity to comment.
            (6) Termination.--The Committee shall terminate on the date 
        that is 6 years after the date on which the Committee is 
        established.
            (7) Termination of future of aviation advisory committee.--
        The Future of Aviation Advisory Committee shall terminate on 
        the date on which the lithium ion battery air safety advisory 
        committee is established.
    (c) Medical Device Batteries.--
            (1) Limited exceptions to restrictions on air 
        transportation of medical device batteries.--The Secretary 
        shall issue limited exceptions to the restrictions on 
        transportation of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries to 
        allow the shipment on a passenger aircraft of not more than 2 
        replacement batteries specifically used for a medical device 
        if--
                    (A) the intended destination of the batteries is 
                not serviced daily by cargo aircraft if a battery is 
                required for medically necessary care; and
                    (B) with regard to a shipper of lithium ion or 
                lithium metal batteries for medical devices that cannot 
                comply with a charge limitation in place at the time, 
                each battery is--
                            (i) individually packed in an inner 
                        packaging that completely encloses the battery;
                            (ii) placed in a rigid outer packaging; and
                            (iii) protected to prevent a short circuit.
            (2) Medical device defined.--ln this subsection, the term 
        ``medical device'' means an instrument, apparatus, implement, 
        machine, contrivance, implant, or in vitro reagent, including 
        any component, part, or accessory thereof, which is intended 
        for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in 
        the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, in a 
        person.
            (3) Savings clause.--Nothing in this subsection may be 
        construed as expanding or restricting any authority of the 
        Secretary under section 828 of the FAA Modernization and Reform 
        Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44701 note).
    (d) Packaging Improvements.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with 
interested stakeholders, shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate an 
evaluation of current practices for the packaging of lithium ion 
batteries and cells for air transportation, including recommendations, 
if any, to improve the packaging of such batteries and cells for air 
transportation in a safe, efficient, and cost-effective manner.
    (e) Department of Transportation Policy on International 
Representation.--It shall be the policy of the Department of 
Transportation to support the participation of industry in all panels 
and working groups of the Dangerous Goods Panel of the International 
Civil Aviation Organization and any other international test or 
standard setting organization that considers proposals on the safety or 
transportation of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries in which the 
United States participates.
    (f) Harmonization With ICAO Technical Instructions.--Pursuant to 
section 828 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 
44701 note), not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this 
Act, the Secretary shall conform United States regulations on the air 
transport of lithium cells and batteries with the lithium cells and 
batteries requirements in the 2015-2016 edition of the ICAO Technical 
Instructions (including all addenda), including the revised standards 
adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization that became 
effective on April 1, 2016.
    (g) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) ICAO technical instructions.--The term ``ICAO Technical 
        Instructions'' has the meaning given that term in section 
        828(c) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
        U.S.C. 44701 note).
            (2) U.S. hazardous materials regulations.--The term ``U.S. 
        Hazardous Materials Regulations'' means the regulations in 
        parts 100 through 177 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations 
        (including amendments adopted after the date of enactment of 
        this Act).

SEC. 510. REMOTE TOWER PILOT PROGRAM FOR RURAL AND SMALL COMMUNITIES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish 
a pilot program under which, upon approval of an application submitted 
by an operator of a public-use airport, the Secretary shall install and 
operate at the airport a remote air traffic control tower in order to 
assess the operational benefits of remote air traffic control towers.
    (b) Applications.--The operator of an airport seeking to 
participate in the pilot program shall submit to the Secretary for 
approval an application that is in such form and contains such 
information as the Secretary may require.
    (c) Selection Criteria.--
            (1) Selection of airports.--From among the applications 
        submitted under subsection (b), the Secretary, after 
        consultation with representatives of labor organizations 
        representing operators and employees of the air traffic control 
        system, shall select for participation in the pilot program 7 
        airports as follows:
                    (A) 1 nonhub, primary airport.
                    (B) 3 nonprimary airports without existing air 
                traffic control towers.
                    (C) 2 airports with air traffic control towers 
                participating in a program established under section 
                47124 of title 49, United States Code.
                    (D) 1 airport selected at the discretion of the 
                Secretary.
            (2) Priority selection.--In selecting from among the 
        applications submitted under subsection (b), the Secretary 
        shall give priority to applicants that can best demonstrate the 
        capabilities and potential of remote air traffic control 
        towers, including applicants proposing to operate multiple 
        remote air traffic control towers from a single facility.
            (3) Authority to reallocate airport selection.--If the 
        Secretary receives an insufficient number of applications, the 
        Secretary may reallocate the distribution of airport sites 
        described in paragraph (1).
    (d) Safety Risk Management Panel.--
            (1) Safety risk management panel meeting.--Prior to the 
        operational use of a remote air traffic control tower, the 
        Secretary shall convene a safety risk management panel for the 
        tower to address any safety issues with respect to the tower.
            (2) Safety risk management panel best practices.--The 
        safety risk management panels shall be created and utilized in 
        a manner similar to that of safety risk management panels 
        previously established for remote air traffic control towers, 
        taking into account--
                    (A) best practices that have been developed; and
                    (B) operational data from remote air traffic 
                control towers located in the United States.
    (e) Airport Improvement Program.--The pilot program shall be 
eligible for airport improvement funding under chapter 471 of title 49, 
United States Code.
    (f) Possible Expansion of Program.--Not later than 30 days after 
the date that the first remote air traffic control tower is 
commissioned, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish a repeatable process by which future certified remote 
air traffic control tower systems may be commissioned at additional 
airports.
    (g) Definitions.--
            (1) In general.--In this section, the following definitions 
        apply:
                    (A) Air navigation facility.--The term ``air 
                navigation facility'' has the meaning given that term 
                in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code.
                    (B) Remote air traffic control tower.--The term 
                ``remote air traffic control tower'' means a remotely 
                operated air navigation facility, including all 
                necessary system components, that provides the 
                functions and capabilities of an air traffic control 
                tower.
            (2) Applicability of other definitions.--The terms ``nonhub 
        airport'', ``primary airport'', and ``public-use airport'' have 
        the meanings given such terms in section 47102 of title 49, 
        United States Code.
    (h) Sunset.--The pilot program shall terminate on the date that is 
3 years after the date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 511. ENSURING FAA READINESS TO PROVIDE SEAMLESS OCEANIC 
              OPERATIONS.

    Not later than September 30, 2018, the Secretary of Transportation 
shall make a final investment decision for the implementation of a 
reduced oceanic separation capability that, by March 31, 2019, shall be 
operational and in use providing capabilities at least equivalent to 
that offered in neighboring airspace, and such service shall be 
provided in the same manner as terrestrial surveillance is provided.

SEC. 512. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING WOMEN IN AVIATION.

    It is the sense of Congress that the aviation industry should 
explore all opportunities, including pilot training, science, 
technology, engineering, and mathematics education, and mentorship 
programs, to encourage and support female students and aviators to 
pursue a career in aviation.

SEC. 513. OBSTRUCTION EVALUATION AERONAUTICAL STUDIES.

    The Secretary of Transportation may implement the policy set forth 
in the notice of proposed policy titled ``Proposal to Consider the 
Impact of One Engine Inoperative Procedures in Obstruction Evaluation 
Aeronautical Studies'' published by the Department of Transportation on 
April 28, 2014 (79 Fed. Reg. 23300), only if the policy is adopted 
pursuant to a notice and comment rulemaking and, for purposes of 
Executive Order 12866 (5 U.S.C. 601 note; relating to regulatory 
planning and review), is treated as a significant regulatory action 
within the scope of section 3(f)(1) of such Order.

SEC. 514. AIRCRAFT LEASING.

    Section 44112(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking ``on land or water''; and
            (2) by inserting ``operational'' before ``control''.

SEC. 515. REPORT ON OBSOLETE TEST EQUIPMENT.

    (a) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate a report on the National Test 
Equipment Program of the Federal Aviation Administration (in this 
section referred to as the ``Program'').
    (b) Contents.--The report shall include--
            (1) a list of all known outstanding requests for test 
        equipment, cataloged by type and location, under the Program;
            (2) a description of the current method under the Program 
        of ensuring calibrated equipment is in place for utilization;
            (3) a plan by the Administrator for appropriate inventory 
        of such equipment;
            (4) the Administrator's recommendations for increasing 
        multifunctionality in future test equipment and all known and 
        foreseeable manufacturer technological advances; and
            (5) a plan to replace, as appropriate, obsolete test 
        equipment throughout the service areas.

SEC. 516. PILOTS SHARING FLIGHT EXPENSES WITH PASSENGERS.

    (a) Guidance.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration shall make publicly available, in a 
        clear and concise format, advisory guidance that describes how 
        a pilot may share flight expenses with passengers in a manner 
        consistent with Federal law, including regulations.
            (2) Examples included.--The guidance shall include examples 
        of--
                    (A) flights for which pilots and passengers may 
                share expenses;
                    (B) flights for which pilots and passengers may not 
                share expenses;
                    (C) the methods of communication that pilots and 
                passengers may use to arrange flights for which 
                expenses are shared; and
                    (D) the methods of communication that pilots and 
                passengers may not use to arrange flights for which 
                expenses are shared.
    (b) Report.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date on 
        which guidance is made publicly available under subsection (a), 
        the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to 
        the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
        of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate a report analyzing Federal policy 
        with respect to pilots sharing flight expenses with passengers.
            (2) Evaluations included.--The report submitted under 
        paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of--
                    (A) the rationale for such Federal policy;
                    (B) safety and other concerns related to pilots 
                sharing flight expenses with passengers; and
                    (C) benefits related to pilots sharing flight 
                expenses with passengers.

SEC. 517. AVIATION RULEMAKING COMMITTEE FOR PART 135 PILOT REST AND 
              DUTY RULES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall convene an aviation rulemaking committee to 
review, and develop findings and recommendations regarding, pilot rest 
and duty rules under part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.
    (b) Duties.--The Administrator shall--
            (1) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
        this Act, submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
        Senate a report based on the findings of the aviation 
        rulemaking committee; and
            (2) not later than 1 year after the date of submission of 
        the report under paragraph (1), issue a notice of proposed 
        rulemaking based on any consensus recommendations reached by 
        the aviation rulemaking committee.
    (c) Composition.--The aviation rulemaking committee shall consist 
of members appointed by the Administrator, including--
            (1) representatives of industry;
            (2) representatives of aviation labor organizations, 
        including collective bargaining units representing pilots who 
        are covered by part 135 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, and subpart K of part 91 of such title; and
            (3) aviation safety experts with specific knowledge of 
        flight crewmember education and training requirements under 
        part 135 of such title.
    (d) Considerations.--The Administrator shall direct the aviation 
rulemaking committee to consider--
            (1) recommendations of prior part 135 rulemaking 
        committees;
            (2) accommodations necessary for small businesses;
            (3) scientific data derived from aviation-related fatigue 
        and sleep research;
            (4) data gathered from aviation safety reporting programs;
            (5) the need to accommodate the diversity of operations 
        conducted under part 135; and
            (6) other items, as appropriate.

SEC. 518. METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON AIRPORTS AUTHORITY.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
            (1) the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (in this 
        section referred to as ``MWAA''), which operates Ronald Reagan 
        Washington National Airport and Dulles International Airport by 
        lease with the Department of Transportation, has routinely 
        performed poorly on audits conducted by the Inspector General 
        of the Department of Transportation;
            (2) the responsible stewardship of taxpayer-owned assets by 
        MWAA is of great concern to Congress;
            (3) a March 20, 2015, audit conducted by the Inspector 
        General titled ``MWAA's Office of Audit Does Not Have an 
        Adequate Quality Assurance and Improvement Program'' (Report 
        No. ZA-2015-035) found that MWAA's quality assurance and 
        improvement program did not conform with the standards of the 
        Institute of Internal Auditors; and
            (4) the Inspector General's audit made 7 recommendations to 
        strengthen MWAA governance, its Office of Audit, and its 
        quality assurance and improvement program.
    (b) Implementing Audit Recommendations.--
            (1) Study.--The Inspector General of the Department of 
        Transportation shall conduct a study on MWAA's progress in 
        implementing the recommendations of the audit referred to in 
        subsection (a).
            (2) Report.--The Inspector General shall submit to the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate a report on the study, including 
        the Inspector General's findings, conclusions, and 
        recommendations for strengthening and improving MWAA's Office 
        of Audit.

SEC. 519. TERMINAL AERODROME FORECAST.

    (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall permit a covered air carrier to operate to or from 
a location in a noncontiguous State without a Terminal Aerodrome 
Forecast or Meteorological Aerodrome Report if--
            (1) such location is determined to be under visual 
        meteorological conditions;
            (2) a current Area Forecast, supplemented by other local 
        weather observations or reports, is available; and
            (3) an alternate airport that has an available Terminal 
        Aerodrome Forecast and weather report is specified.
    (b) Procedures.--A covered air carrier shall--
            (1) have approved procedures for dispatch or release and 
        enroute weather evaluation; and
            (2) operate under instrument flight rules enroute to the 
        destination.
    (c) Covered Air Carrier Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered air carrier'' means an air carrier operating in a 
noncontiguous State under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations.

SEC. 520. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION EMPLOYEES STATIONED ON GUAM.

    It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration and the Secretary of Defense should seek an 
        agreement that would enable Federal Aviation Administration 
        employees stationed on Guam to have access to Department of 
        Defense hospitals, commissaries, and exchanges on Guam;
            (2) access to these facilities is important to ensure the 
        health and well-being of Federal Aviation Administration 
        employees and their families; and
            (3) in exchange for this access, the Federal Aviation 
        Administration should make payments to cover the applicable 
        administrative costs incurred by the Department of Defense in 
        carrying out the agreement.

SEC. 521. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

    (a) Airport Capacity Enhancement Projects at Congested Airports.--
Section 40104(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``section 47176'' and inserting ``section 47175''.
    (b) Passenger Facility Charges.--Section 40117(a)(5) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``charge or charge'' and 
inserting ``charge''.
    (c) Overflights of National Parks.--Section 40128(a)(3) of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``under part 91 of the 
title 14,'' and inserting ``under part 91 of title 14,''.
    (d) Plans To Address Needs of Families of Passengers Involved in 
Foreign Air Carrier Accidents.--Section 41313(c)(16) of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking ``An assurance that the 
foreign air carrier'' and inserting ``An assurance that''.
    (e) Operations of Carriers.--The analysis for chapter 417 of title 
49, United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to 
section 41718 and inserting the following:

``41718. Special rules for Ronald Reagan Washington National 
                            Airport.''.
    (f) Schedules for Certain Transportation of Mail.--Section 41902(a) 
of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``section 
41906'' and inserting ``section 41905''.
    (g) Weighing Mail.--Section 41907 of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by striking ``and'' and all that follows through 
``administrative'' and inserting ``and administrative''.
    (h) Structures Interfering With Air Commerce or National 
Security.--Section 44718(b)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
            (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking 
        ``air navigation facilities and equipment'' and inserting ``air 
        or space navigation facilities and equipment''; and
            (2) in subparagraph (A)--
                    (A) in clause (v) by striking ``and'' at the end;
                    (B) by redesignating clause (vi) as clause (vii); 
                and
                    (C) by inserting after clause (v) the following:
                            ``(vi) the impact on launch and reentry for 
                        launch and reentry vehicles arriving or 
                        departing from a launch site or reentry site 
                        licensed by the Secretary of Transportation; 
                        and''.
    (i) Fees Involving Aircraft Not Providing Air Transportation.--
Section 45302 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 
``44703(f)(2)'' each place it appears and inserting ``44703(g)(2)''.
    (j) Chapter 465.--The analysis for chapter 465 of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking the following:

``46503. Repealed.''.
    (k) Solicitation and Consideration of Comments.--Section 47171(l) 
of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking ``4371'' and 
inserting ``4321''.
    (l) Adjustments to Compensation for Significantly Increased 
Costs.--Section 426 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 is 
amended--
            (1) in subsection (a) (49 U.S.C. 41737 note) by striking 
        ``Secretary'' and inserting ``Secretary of Transportation''; 
        and
            (2) in subsection (c) (49 U.S.C. 41731 note) by striking 
        ``the Secretary may waive'' and inserting ``the Secretary of 
        Transportation may waive''.
    (m) Aircraft Departure Queue Management Pilot Program.--Section 
507(a) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44505 
note) is amended by striking ``section 48101(a)'' and inserting 
``section 48101(a) of title 49, United States Code,''.

SEC. 522. APPLICATION OF VETERANS' PREFERENCE TO FEDERAL AVIATION 
              ADMINISTRATION PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.

    Section 40122(g)(2)(B) of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
            (1) by inserting ``3304(f),'' before ``3308-3320''; and
            (2) by inserting ``3330a, 3330b, 3330c, and 3330d,'' before 
        ``relating''.

SEC. 523. PUBLIC AIRCRAFT ELIGIBLE FOR LOGGING FLIGHT TIMES.

    The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
issue regulations modifying section 61.51(j)(4) of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, so as to include aircraft under the direct 
operational control of forestry and fire protection agencies as public 
aircraft eligible for logging flight times.

SEC. 524. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION WORKFORCE REVIEW.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall conduct a review to assess the workforce and training needs of 
the Federal Aviation Administration (in this section referred to as the 
``FAA'') in the anticipated budgetary environment.
    (b) Contents.--In conducting the review, the Comptroller General 
shall--
            (1) identify the long-term workforce and training needs of 
        the FAA workforce;
            (2) assess the impact of automation, digitalization, and 
        artificial intelligence on the FAA workforce;
            (3) analyze the skills and qualifications required of the 
        FAA workforce for successful performance in the current and 
        future projected aviation environment;
            (4) review current performance incentive policies of the 
        FAA, including awards for performance;
            (5) analyze ways in which the FAA can work with industry 
        and labor, including labor groups representing the FAA 
        workforce, to establish knowledge-sharing opportunities between 
        the FAA and the aviation industry regarding new equipment and 
        systems, best practices, and other areas of interest; and
            (6) develop recommendations on the most effective 
        qualifications, training programs (including e-learning 
        training), and performance incentive approaches to address the 
        needs of the future projected aviation regulatory system in the 
        anticipated budgetary environment.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the review.

SEC. 525. STATE TAXATION.

    Section 40116(d)(2)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended 
by adding at the end the following:
            ``(v) except as otherwise provided under section 47133, 
        levy or collect a tax, fee, or charge, first taking effect 
        after the date of enactment of this clause, upon any business 
        located at a commercial service airport or operating as a 
        permittee of such an airport that is not generally imposed on 
        sales or services by that State, political subdivision, or 
        authority unless wholly utilized for airport or aeronautical 
        purposes.''.

SEC. 526. AVIATION AND AEROSPACE WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
            (1) in 2016, United States air carriers carried a record 
        high number of passengers on domestic flights, 719 million 
        passengers;
            (2) the United States aerospace and defense industry 
        employed 1.7 million workers in 2015, or roughly 2 percent of 
        the Nation's total employment base;
            (3) the average salary of an employee in the aerospace and 
        defense industry is 44 percent above the national average;
            (4) in 2015, the aerospace and defense industry contributed 
        nearly $202.4 billion in value added to the United States 
        economy;
            (5) an effective aviation industry relies on individuals 
        with unique skill sets, many of which can be directly obtained 
        through career and technical education opportunities; and
            (6) industry and the Federal Government have taken some 
        actions to attract qualified individuals to careers in aviation 
        and aerospace and to retain qualified individuals in such 
        careers.
    (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
            (1) public and private education institutions should make 
        available to students and parents information on approved 
        programs of study and career pathways, including career 
        exploration, work-based learning opportunities, dual and 
        concurrent enrollment opportunities, and guidance and 
        advisement resources;
            (2) public and private education institutions should 
        partner with aviation and aerospace companies to promote career 
        paths available within the industry and share information on 
        the unique benefits and opportunities the career paths offer;
            (3) aviation companies, including air carriers, 
        manufacturers, commercial space companies, unmanned aircraft 
        system companies, and repair stations, should create 
        opportunities, through apprenticeships or other mechanisms, to 
        attract young people to aviation and aerospace careers and to 
        enable individuals to gain the critical skills needed to thrive 
        in such professions; and
            (4) the Federal Government should consider the needs of men 
        and women interested in pursuing careers in the aviation and 
        aerospace industry, the long-term personnel needs of the 
        aviation and aerospace industry, and the role of aviation in 
        the United States economy in the creation and administration of 
        educational and financial aid programs.

SEC. 527. FUTURE AVIATION AND AEROSPACE WORKFORCE STUDY.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct 
a study--
            (1) to identify the factors influencing the supply of 
        individuals pursuing a career in the aviation or aerospace 
        industry; and
            (2) to identify best practices or programs to incentivize, 
        recruit, and retain young people in aviation and aerospace 
        professions.
    (b) Consultation.--The Comptroller General shall conduct the study 
in consultation with--
            (1) appropriate Federal agencies; and
            (2) the aviation and aerospace industry, institutions of 
        higher education, and labor stakeholders.
    (c) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study and 
related recommendations.

SEC. 528. FAA LEADERSHIP ON CIVIL SUPERSONIC AIRCRAFT.

    (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall exercise leadership in the creation of Federal and 
international policies, regulations, and standards relating to the 
certification and safe and efficient operation of civil supersonic 
aircraft.
    (b) Exercise of Leadership.--In carrying out subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall--
            (1) consider the needs of the aerospace industry and other 
        stakeholders when creating policies, regulations, and standards 
        that enable the safe commercial deployment of civil supersonic 
        aircraft technology and the safe and efficient operation of 
        civil supersonic aircraft; and
            (2) obtain the input of aerospace industry stakeholders 
        regarding--
                    (A) the appropriate regulatory framework and 
                timeline for permitting the safe and efficient 
                operation of civil supersonic aircraft within United 
                States airspace, including updating or modifying 
                existing regulations on such operation;
                    (B) issues related to standards and regulations for 
                the type certification and safe operation of civil 
                supersonic aircraft, including noise certification, 
                including--
                            (i) the operational differences between 
                        subsonic aircraft and supersonic aircraft;
                            (ii) costs and benefits associated with 
                        landing and takeoff noise requirements for 
                        civil supersonic aircraft, including impacts on 
                        aircraft emissions;
                            (iii) public and economic benefits of the 
                        operation of civil supersonic aircraft and 
                        associated aerospace industry activity; and
                            (iv) challenges relating to ensuring that 
                        standards and regulations aimed at relieving 
                        and protecting the public health and welfare 
                        from aircraft noise and sonic booms are 
                        economically reasonable, technologically 
                        practicable, and appropriate for civil 
                        supersonic aircraft; and
                    (C) other issues identified by the Administrator or 
                the aerospace industry that must be addressed to enable 
                the safe commercial deployment and safe and efficient 
                operation of civil supersonic aircraft.
    (c) International Leadership.--The Administrator, in the 
appropriate international forums, shall take actions that--
            (1) demonstrate global leadership under subsection (a);
            (2) address the needs of the aerospace industry identified 
        under subsection (b); and
            (3) protect the public health and welfare.
    (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 
and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
Senate a report detailing--
            (1) the Administrator's actions to exercise leadership in 
        the creation of Federal and international policies, 
        regulations, and standards relating to the certification and 
        safe and efficient operation of civil supersonic aircraft;
            (2) planned, proposed, and anticipated actions to update or 
        modify existing policies and regulations related to civil 
        supersonic aircraft, including those identified as a result of 
        industry consultation and feedback; and
            (3) a timeline for any actions to be taken to update or 
        modify existing policies and regulations related to civil 
        supersonic aircraft.

SEC. 529. OKLAHOMA REGISTRY OFFICE.

    The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall 
consider the aircraft registry office in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, as 
excepted during a Government shutdown or emergency (as it provides 
excepted services) to ensure that it remains open during any Government 
shutdown or emergency.

SEC. 530. FOREIGN AIR TRANSPORTATION UNDER UNITED STATES-EUROPEAN UNION 
              AIR TRANSPORT AGREEMENT.

    (a) Certain Foreign Air Transportation Permits.--The Secretary of 
Transportation may not issue a permit under section 41302 of title 49, 
United States Code, or an exemption under section 40109 of such title, 
authorizing a person to provide foreign air transportation as a foreign 
air carrier under the United States-European Union Air Transport 
Agreement of April 2007 (as amended) in a proceeding in which the 
applicability of Article 17 bis of such Agreement has been raised by an 
interested person, unless the Secretary--
            (1) finds that issuing the permit or exemption would be 
        consistent with the intent set forth in Article 17 bis of the 
        Agreement, that opportunities created by the Agreement do not 
        undermine labor standards or the labor-related rights and 
        principles contained in the laws of the respective parties to 
        the Agreement; and
            (2) imposes on the permit or exemption such conditions as 
        may be necessary to ensure that the person complies with the 
        intent of Article 17 bis.
    (b) Public Interest Test.--Section 41302(2) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended--
            (1) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``under an agreement 
        with the United States Government; or'' and inserting ``; 
        and''; and
            (2) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``the foreign air 
        transportation'' and inserting ``after considering the totality 
        of the circumstances, including the factors set forth in 
        section 40101(a), the foreign air transportation''.
    (c) Public Interest Requirements.--
            (1) Policy.--Section 40101(a) of title 49, United States 
        Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(17) preventing entry into United States markets by flag 
        of convenience carriers.''.
            (2) International air transportation.--Section 40101(e)(9) 
        of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
                    (A) in subparagraph (D) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                    (B) in subparagraph (E) by striking the period at 
                the end and inserting ``; and''; and
                    (C) by adding at the end the following:
                    ``(F) erosion of labor standards associated with 
                flag of convenience carriers.''.
            (3) Flag of convenience carrier defined.--Section 40102(a) 
        of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is 
        further amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(54) `flag of convenience carrier' means a foreign air 
        carrier that is established in a country other than the home 
        country of its majority owner or owners in order to avoid 
        regulations of the home country.''.

SEC. 531. TRAINING ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING FOR CERTAIN STAFF.

    (a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, as 
amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``Sec. 44738. Training on human trafficking for certain staff
    ``In addition to other training requirements, each air carrier 
shall provide training--
            ``(1) to ticket counter agents, gate agents, and other air 
        carrier workers whose jobs require regular interaction with 
        passengers; and
            ``(2) on recognizing and responding to potential human 
        trafficking victims.''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, 
United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by 
adding at the end the following:

``44738. Training on human trafficking for certain staff.''.

SEC. 532. PART 107 IMPLEMENTATION IMPROVEMENTS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment 
of this section, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall publish a direct final rule--
            (1) revising section 107.205 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, by striking the second sentence of subsections (a) 
        and (c); and
            (2) revising section 107.25 of such title by striking ``and 
        is not transporting another person's property for compensation 
        or hire''.
    (b) Determination of Waiver.--In determining whether to grant a 
waiver under part 107 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, to 
authorize transportation of another's property for compensation or hire 
beyond the visual line of sight of the remote pilot, from a moving 
vehicle, or over people, the Administrator shall consider the 
technological capabilities of the unmanned aircraft system, the 
qualifications of the remote pilot, and the operational environment.

SEC. 533. PART 107 TRANSPARENCY AND TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS.

    (a) Transparency.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall publish on the Federal Aviation Administration 
website a representative sample of the safety justifications, offered 
by applicants for small unmanned aircraft system waivers and airspace 
authorizations, that have been approved by the Administration for each 
regulation waived or class of airspace authorized, except that any 
published justification shall not reveal proprietary or commercially 
sensitive information.
    (b) Technology Improvements.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall revise the online 
waiver and certificates of authorization processes--
            (1) to provide real time confirmation that an application 
        filed online has been received by the Administration; and
            (2) to provide an applicant with an opportunity to review 
        the status of the applicant's application.

SEC. 534. PROHIBITIONS AGAINST SMOKING ON PASSENGER FLIGHTS.

    Section 41706 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); and
            (2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
    ``(d) Electronic Cigarettes.--
            ``(1) Inclusion.--The use of an electronic cigarette shall 
        be treated as smoking for purposes of this section.
            ``(2) Electronic cigarette defined.--In this section, the 
        term `electronic cigarette' means a device that delivers 
        nicotine to a user of the device in the form of a vapor that is 
        inhaled to simulate the experience of smoking.''.

SEC. 535. CONSUMER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO LARGE TICKET 
              AGENTS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall issue a final rule 
to require large ticket agents to adopt minimum customer service 
standards.
    (b) Purpose.--The purpose of the final rule shall be to ensure 
that, to the maximum extent practicable, there is a consistent level of 
consumer protection regardless of where consumers purchase air fares 
and related air transportation services.
    (c) Standards.--In issuing the final rule, the Secretary shall 
consider, at a minimum, establishing standards for--
            (1) providing prompt refunds when ticket refunds are due, 
        including fees for optional services that consumers purchased 
        but were not able to use due to a flight cancellation or 
        oversale situation;
            (2) providing an option to hold a reservation at the quoted 
        fare without payment, or to cancel without penalty, for 24 
        hours;
            (3) disclosing cancellation policies, seating 
        configurations, and lavatory availability with respect to 
        flights;
            (4) notifying customers in a timely manner of itinerary 
        changes; and
            (5) responding promptly to customer complaints.
    (d) Definitions.--In this section, the following shall apply:
            (1) Ticket agent.--
                    (A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the 
                term ``ticket agent'' has the meaning given that term 
                in section 40102(a) of title 49, United States Code.
                    (B) Inclusion.--The term ``ticket agent'' includes 
                a person who acts as an intermediary involved in the 
                sale of air transportation directly or indirectly to 
                consumers, including by operating an electronic airline 
                information system, if the person--
                            (i) holds the person out as a source of 
                        information about, or reservations for, the air 
                        transportation industry; and
                            (ii) receives compensation in any way 
                        related to the sale of air transportation.
            (2) Large ticket agent.--The term ``large ticket agent'' 
        means a ticket agent with annual revenues of $100,000,000 or 
        more.

SEC. 536. FAA DATA TRANSPARENCY.

    Section 45303 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(g) Data Transparency.--
            ``(1) Air traffic services initial data report.--
                    ``(A) Initial report.--Not later than 6 months 
                after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization 
                Act of 2018, the Administrator and the Chief Operating 
                Officer of the Air Traffic Organization shall, based 
                upon the most recently available full fiscal year data, 
                complete the following calculations for each segment of 
                air traffic services users:
                            ``(i) The total costs allocable to the use 
                        of air traffic services for that segment during 
                        such fiscal year.
                            ``(ii) The total revenues received from 
                        that segment during such fiscal year.
                    ``(B) Validation of model.--
                            ``(i) Review and determination.--Not later 
                        than 3 months after completion of the initial 
                        report required under subparagraph (A), the 
                        Inspector General of the Department of 
                        Transportation shall review and determine the 
                        validity of the model used by the Administrator 
                        and the Chief Operating Officer to complete the 
                        calculations required under subparagraph (A).
                            ``(ii) Validation process.--In the event 
                        that the Inspector General determines that the 
                        model used by the Administrator and the Chief 
                        Operating Officer to complete the calculations 
                        required by subparagraph (A) is not valid--
                                    ``(I) the Inspector General shall 
                                provide the Administrator and Chief 
                                Operating Officer recommendations on 
                                how to revise the model;
                                    ``(II) the Administrator and the 
                                Chief Operating Officer shall complete 
                                the calculations required by 
                                subparagraph (A) utilizing the revised 
                                model and resubmit the revised initial 
                                report required under subparagraph (A) 
                                to the Inspector General; and
                                    ``(III) not later than 3 months 
                                after completion of the revised initial 
                                report required under subparagraph (A), 
                                the Inspector General shall review and 
                                determine the validity of the revised 
                                model used by the Administrator and the 
                                Chief Operating Officer to complete the 
                                calculations required by subparagraph 
                                (A).
                            ``(iii) Access to data.--The Administrator 
                        and the Chief Operating Officer shall provide 
                        the Inspector General of the Department of 
                        Transportation with unfettered access to all 
                        data produced by the cost accounting system 
                        operated and maintained pursuant to subsection 
                        (e).
                    ``(C) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 days 
                after completion of the review and receiving a 
                determination that the model used is valid under 
                subparagraph (B), the Administrator and the Chief 
                Operating Officer shall submit to the Committee on 
                Transportation and Infrastructure, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Ways and Means of 
                the House of Representatives, and the Committee on 
                Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Finance of the 
                Senate a report describing the results of the 
                calculations completed under subparagraph (A).
                    ``(D) Publication.--Not later than 60 days after 
                submission of the report required under subparagraph 
                (C), the Administrator and Chief Operating Officer 
                shall publish the initial report, including any 
                revision thereto if required as a result of the 
                validation process for the model.
            ``(2) Air traffic services biennial data reporting.--
                    ``(A) Biennial data reporting.--Not later than 
                March 31, 2019, and biennially thereafter for 8 years, 
                the Administrator and the Chief Operating Officer 
                shall, using the validated model, complete the 
                following calculations for each segment of air traffic 
                services users for the most recent full fiscal year:
                            ``(i) The total costs allocable to the use 
                        of the air traffic services for that segment.
                            ``(ii) The total revenues received from 
                        that segment.
                    ``(B) Report to congress.--Not later than 15 days 
                after completing the calculations under subparagraph 
                (A), the Administrator and the Chief Operating Officer 
                shall complete and submit to the Committee on 
                Transportation and Infrastructure, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Ways and Means of 
                the House of Representatives, and the Committee on 
                Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Committee on 
                Appropriations, and the Committee on Finance of the 
                Senate a report containing the results of such 
                calculations.
                    ``(C) Publication.--Not later than 60 days after 
                completing the calculations pursuant to subparagraph 
                (A), the Administrator and the Chief Operating Officer 
                shall publish the results of such calculations.
            ``(3) Segments of air traffic services users.--
                    ``(A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection, 
                each of the following shall constitute a separate 
                segment of air traffic services users:
                            ``(i) Passenger air carriers conducting 
                        operations under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
                        Federal Regulations.
                            ``(ii) All-cargo air carriers conducting 
                        operations under part 121 of such title.
                            ``(iii) Operators covered by part 125 of 
                        such title.
                            ``(iv) Air carriers and operators of 
                        piston-engine aircraft operating under part 135 
                        of such title.
                            ``(v) Air carriers and operators of 
                        turbine-engine aircraft operating under part 
                        135 of such title.
                            ``(vi) Foreign air carriers providing 
                        passenger air transportation.
                            ``(vii) Foreign air carriers providing all-
                        cargo air transportation.
                            ``(viii) Operators of turbine-engine 
                        aircraft operating under part 91 of such title, 
                        excluding those operating under subpart (K) of 
                        such part.
                            ``(ix) Operators of piston-engine aircraft 
                        operating under part 91 of such title, 
                        excluding those operating under subpart (K) of 
                        such part.
                            ``(x) Operators covered by subpart (K) of 
                        part 91 of such title.
                            ``(xi) Operators covered by part 133 of 
                        such title.
                            ``(xii) Operators covered by part 136 of 
                        such title.
                            ``(xiii) Operators covered by part 137 of 
                        such title.
                            ``(xiv) Operators of public aircraft that 
                        qualify under section 40125.
                            ``(xv) Operators of aircraft that neither 
                        take off from, nor land in, the United States.
                    ``(B) Additional segments.--The Secretary may 
                identify and include additional segments of air traffic 
                users under paragraph (A) as revenue and air traffic 
                services cost data becomes available for that 
                additional segment of air traffic services users.
            ``(4) Definitions.--For purposes of this subsection:
                    ``(A) Air traffic services.--The term `air traffic 
                services' means services--
                            ``(i) used for the monitoring, directing, 
                        control, and guidance of aircraft or flows of 
                        aircraft and for the safe conduct of flight, 
                        including communications, navigation, and 
                        surveillance services and provision of 
                        aeronautical information; and
                            ``(ii) provided directly, or contracted 
                        for, by the Federal Aviation Administration.
                    ``(B) Air traffic services user.--The term `air 
                traffic services user' means any individual or entity 
                using air traffic services provided directly, or 
                contracted for, by the Federal Aviation Administration 
                within United States airspace or international airspace 
                delegated to the United States.''.

SEC. 537. AGENCY PROCUREMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

    Section 40110(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
            ``(5) Annual report on the purchase of foreign manufactured 
        articles.--
                    ``(A) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the end 
                of the fiscal year, the Secretary of Transportation 
                shall submit a report to Congress on the dollar amount 
                of the acquisitions made by the agency from entities 
                that manufacture the articles, materials, or supplies 
                outside of the United States in such fiscal year.
                    ``(B) Contents.--The report required by 
                subparagraph (A) shall separately indicate--
                            ``(i) the dollar value of any articles, 
                        materials, or supplies purchased that were 
                        manufactured outside of the United States; and
                            ``(ii) a summary of the total procurement 
                        funds spent on goods manufactured in the United 
                        States versus funds spent on goods manufactured 
                        outside of the United States.
                    ``(C) Availability of report.--The Secretary shall 
                make the report under subparagraph (A) publicly 
                available on the agency's website not later than 30 
                days after submission to Congress.''.

SEC. 538. ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLES AND TECHNOLOGY.

    (a) Passenger Facility Charge Eligibility.--Section 40117(a)(3) of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
                    ``(H) A project for--
                            ``(i) converting or retrofitting vehicles 
                        and ground support equipment into eligible 
                        zero-emission vehicles and equipment (as 
                        defined in section 47102); or
                            ``(ii) acquiring, by purchase or lease, 
                        eligible zero-emission vehicles and equipment 
                        (as defined in section 47102).''.
    (b) Airport Improvement Program Eligibility.--
            (1) Airport development defined.--Section 47102(3) of title 
        49, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further 
        amended by adding at the end the following:
                    ``(P) converting or retrofitting vehicles and 
                ground support equipment into eligible zero-emission 
                vehicles and equipment or acquiring, by purchase or 
                lease, eligible zero-emission vehicles and equipment.
                    ``(Q) constructing or modifying airport facilities 
                to install a microgrid in order to provide increased 
                resilience to severe weather, terrorism, and other 
                causes of grid failures.''.
            (2) Additional definitions.--Section 47102 of title 49, 
        United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended 
        by adding at the end the following:
            ``(30) `eligible zero-emission vehicle and equipment' means 
        a zero-emission vehicle, equipment related to such a vehicle, 
        and ground support equipment that includes zero-emission 
        technology that is--
                    ``(A) used exclusively at a commercial service 
                airport; or
                    ``(B) used exclusively to transport people or 
                materials to and from a commercial service airport.
            ``(31) `microgrid' means a localized grouping of 
        electricity sources and loads that normally operates connected 
        to and synchronous with the traditional centralized electrical 
        grid, but can disconnect and function autonomously as physical 
        or economic conditions dictate.
            ``(32) `zero-emission vehicle' means a zero-emission 
        vehicle as defined in section 88.102-94 of title 40, Code of 
        Federal Regulations, or a vehicle that produces zero exhaust 
        emissions of any criteria pollutant (or precursor pollutant) 
        under any possible operational modes and conditions.''.
            (3) Special apportionment categories.--Section 
        47117(e)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
        inserting ``for airport development described in section 
        47102(3)(P),'' after ``under section 47141,''.
    (c) Zero-Emission Program.--Chapter 471 of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
            (1) by striking section 47136;
            (2) by redesignating section 47136a as section 47136; and
            (3) in section 47136, as so redesignated, by striking 
        subsections (a) and (b) and inserting the following:
    ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation may establish a 
pilot program under which the sponsors of not less than 10 public-use 
airports may use funds made available under this chapter or section 
48103 for use at such airports to carry out--
            ``(1) activities associated with the acquisition, by 
        purchase or lease, and operation of zero-emission vehicles, 
        including removable power sources for such vehicles; and
            ``(2) the construction or modification of infrastructure to 
        facilitate the delivery of fuel and services necessary for the 
        use of such vehicles.
    ``(b) Eligibility.--A public-use airport is eligible for 
participation in the program if the vehicles or ground support 
equipment are--
            ``(1) used exclusively at the airport; or
            ``(2) used exclusively to transport people or materials to 
        and from the airport.'';
            (4) in section 47136, as so redesignated, by striking 
        subsections (d) and (e) and inserting the following:
    ``(d) Federal Share.--The Federal share of the cost of a project 
carried out under the program shall be the Federal share specified in 
section 47109.
    ``(e) Technical Assistance.--
            ``(1) In general.--The sponsor of a public-use airport may 
        use not more than 10 percent of the amounts made available to 
        the sponsor under the program in any fiscal year for--
                    ``(A) technical assistance; and
                    ``(B) project management support to assist the 
                airport with the solicitation, acquisition, and 
                deployment of zero-emission vehicles, related 
                equipment, and supporting infrastructure.
            ``(2) Providers of technical assistance.--To receive the 
        technical assistance or project management support described in 
        paragraph (1), participants in the program may use--
                    ``(A) a nonprofit organization selected by the 
                Secretary; or
                    ``(B) a university transportation center receiving 
                grants under section 5505 in the region of the 
                airport.'';
            (5) in section 47136, as so redesignated, in subsection (f) 
        by striking ``section 47136'' and inserting ``the inherently 
        low emission airport vehicle pilot program''; and
            (6) in section 47136, as so redesignated, by adding at the 
        end the following:
    ``(g) Allowable Project Cost.--The allowable project cost for the 
acquisition of a zero-emission vehicle shall be the total cost of 
purchasing or leasing the vehicle, including the cost of technical 
assistance or project management support described in subsection (e).
    ``(h) Flexible Procurement.--A sponsor of a public-use airport may 
use funds made available under the program to acquire, by purchase or 
lease, a zero-emission vehicle and a removable power source in separate 
transactions, including transactions by which the airport purchases the 
vehicle and leases the removable power source.
    ``(i) Testing Required.--A sponsor of a public-use airport may not 
use funds made available under the program to acquire a zero-emission 
vehicle unless that make, model, or type of vehicle has been tested by 
a Federal vehicle testing facility acceptable to the Secretary.
    ``(j) Removable Power Source Defined.--In this section, the term 
`removable power source' means a power source that is separately 
installed in, and removable from, a zero-emission vehicle and may 
include a battery, a fuel cell, an ultra-capacitor, or other advanced 
power source used in a zero-emission vehicle.''.
    (d) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the items relating to 
sections 47136 and 47136a and inserting the following:

``47136. Zero-emission airport vehicles and infrastructure.''.

SEC. 539. EMPLOYEE ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE PLANS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, each air carrier operating under part 121 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations (in this section referred to as a ``part 
121 air carrier''), shall submit to the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration for review and acceptance an Employee Assault 
Prevention and Response Plan related to the customer service agents of 
the air carrier and that is developed in consultation with the labor 
union representing such agents.
    (b) Contents of Plan.--An Employee Assault Prevention and Response 
Plan submitted under subsection (a) shall include the following:
            (1) Reporting protocols for air carrier customer service 
        agents who have been the victim of a verbal or physical 
        assault.
            (2) Protocols for the immediate notification of law 
        enforcement after an incident of verbal or physical assault 
        committed against an air carrier customer service agent.
            (3) Protocols for informing Federal law enforcement with 
        respect to violations of section 46503 of title 49, United 
        States Code.
            (4) Protocols for ensuring that a passenger involved in a 
        violent incident with a customer service agent of an air 
        carrier is not allowed to move through airport security or 
        board an aircraft until appropriate law enforcement has had an 
        opportunity to assess the incident and take appropriate action.
            (5) Protocols for air carriers to inform passengers of 
        Federal laws protecting Federal, airport, and air carrier 
        employees who have security duties within an airport.
    (c) Employee Training.--A part 121 air carrier shall conduct 
initial and recurrent training for all employees, including management, 
of the air carrier with respect to the plan required under subsection 
(a), which shall include training on de-escalating hostile situations, 
written protocols on dealing with hostile situations, and the reporting 
of relevant incidents.

SEC. 540. STUDY ON TRAINING OF CUSTOMER-FACING AIR CARRIER EMPLOYEES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a 
study on the training received by customer-facing employees of air 
carriers.
    (b) Contents.--The study shall include--
            (1) an analysis of the training received by customer-facing 
        employees with respect to the management of disputes on 
        aircraft; and
            (2) an examination of how institutions of higher learning, 
        in coordination with air carriers, customer-facing employees 
        and their representatives, consumer advocacy organizations, and 
        other stakeholders, could--
                    (A) review such training and related practices;
                    (B) produce recommendations; and
                    (C) if determined appropriate, provide supplemental 
                training.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
results of the study.

SEC. 541. MINIMUM DIMENSIONS FOR PASSENGER SEATS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, and after providing notice and an opportunity for comment, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue 
regulations that establish minimum dimensions for passenger seats on 
aircraft operated by air carriers in interstate air transportation or 
intrastate air transportation, including minimums for seat pitch, 
width, and length, and that are necessary for the safety and health of 
passengers.
    (b) Definitions.--The definitions contained in section 40102(a) of 
title 49, United States Code, apply to this section.

SEC. 542. STUDY OF GROUND TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study that 
examines the ground transportation options at the Nation's 10 busiest 
airports in order to--
            (1) understand the impact of new and emerging 
        transportation options for travelers to get into and out of 
        airports, including the fees charged to ground transportation 
        providers for airport access;
            (2) determine whether it is appropriate to use airport 
        improvement funds and revenues from passenger facility charges 
        to address traffic congestion and passenger travel times 
        between urban commercial centers and airports; and
            (3) review guidelines and requirements for airport 
        improvement funds and passenger facility charges to determine 
        under what conditions such funds may be used to address traffic 
        congestion in urban commercial centers for travel to airports.

SEC. 543. FAA EMPLOYEES IN GUAM.

    (a) In General.--The Secretary of Transportation shall enter into 
an agreement with the Secretary of Defense--
            (1) to allow Federal Aviation Administration employees 
        assigned to Guam, their spouses, and their dependent children 
        access to Department of Defense hospitals located in Guam on a 
        space available basis; and
            (2) to provide for payments by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration to the Department of Defense for the 
        administrative costs associated with--
                    (A) enrolling Federal Aviation Administration 
                employees assigned to Guam, their spouses, and their 
                dependent children in any Department of Defense system 
                necessary to allow access pursuant to paragraph (1); 
                and
                    (B) billing an insurance company for any medical 
                costs incurred as a result of Federal Aviation 
                Administration employees, their spouses, or their 
                dependent children accessing and receiving medical 
                treatment or services at a Department of Defense 
                hospital located in Guam.
    (b) Funds Subject to Appropriations.--Funds for payments by the 
Federal Aviation Administration described in subsection (a)(2) are 
subject to the availability of amounts specifically provided in advance 
for that purpose in appropriations Acts.

SEC. 544. CLARIFICATION OF REQUIREMENTS FOR LIVING HISTORY FLIGHTS.

    (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other law or regulation, in 
administering sections 61.113(c), 91.9, 91.315, 91.319(a)(1), 
91.319(a)(2), 119.5(g), and 119.21(a) of title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations (or any successor regulations), the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration shall allow an aircraft owner or 
operator to accept monetary or in-kind donations for a flight operated 
by a living history flight experience provider, if the aircraft owner 
or operator has--
            (1) volunteered to provide such transportation; and
            (2) notified any individual that will be on the flight, at 
        the time of inquiry about the flight, that the flight operation 
        is for charitable purposes and is not subject to the same 
        requirements as a commercial flight.
    (b) Conditions To Ensure Public Safety.--The Administrator, 
consistent with current standards of the Administration for such 
operations, shall impose minimum standards with respect to training and 
flight hours for operations conducted by an owner or operator of an 
aircraft providing living history flight experience operations, 
including mandating that the pilot in command of such aircraft hold a 
commercial pilot certificate with instrument rating and be current and 
qualified with respect to all ratings or authorizations applicable to 
the specific aircraft being flown to ensure the safety of flight 
operations described in subsection (a).
    (c) Living History Flight Experience Provider Defined.--In this 
section, the term ``living history flight experience provider'' means 
an aircraft owner, aircraft operator, or organization that provides, 
arranges, or otherwise fosters living history flight experiences for 
the purpose of fulfilling its mission.

SEC. 545. FAA ORGANIZATIONAL REFORM.

    (a) Chief Technology Officer.--Section 106(s) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended to read as follows:
    ``(s) Chief Technology Officer.--
            ``(1) In general.--
                    ``(A) Appointment.--There shall be a Chief 
                Technology Officer appointed by the Chief Operating 
                Officer, with the approval of the Secretary. The Chief 
                Technology Officer shall report directly to the Chief 
                Operating Officer and shall be subject to the authority 
                of the Chief Operating Officer.
                    ``(B) Minimum qualifications.--The Chief Technology 
                Officer shall have--
                            ``(i) at least 10 years experience in 
                        engineering management or another relevant 
                        technical management field; and
                            ``(ii) knowledge of or experience in the 
                        aviation industry.
                    ``(C) Removal.--The Chief Technology Officer shall 
                serve at the pleasure of the Chief Operating Officer.
                    ``(D) Restriction.--The Chief Technology Officer 
                may not also be the Deputy Administrator.
            ``(2) Responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the Chief 
        Technology Officer shall include--
                    ``(A) ensuring the proper operation, maintenance, 
                and cybersecurity of technology systems relating to the 
                air traffic control system across all program offices 
                of the Administration;
                    ``(B) coordinating the implementation, operation, 
                maintenance, and cybersecurity of technology programs 
                relating to the air traffic control system with the 
                aerospace industry and other Federal agencies;
                    ``(C) reviewing and providing advice to the 
                Secretary, the Administrator, and the Chief Operating 
                Officer on the Administration's budget, cost accounting 
                system, and benefit-cost analyses with respect to 
                technology programs relating to the air traffic control 
                system;
                    ``(D) consulting with the Administrator on the 
                Capital Investment Plan of the Administration prior to 
                its submission to Congress;
                    ``(E) developing an annual air traffic control 
                system technology operation and maintenance plan that 
                is consistent with the annual performance targets 
                established under paragraph (4); and
                    ``(F) ensuring that the air traffic control system 
                architecture remains, to the maximum extent 
                practicable, flexible enough to incorporate future 
                technological advances developed and directly procured 
                by aircraft operators.
            ``(3) Compensation.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The Chief Technology Officer 
                shall be paid at an annual rate of basic pay to be 
                determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the 
                Chief Operating Officer. The annual rate may not exceed 
                the annual compensation paid under section 102 of title 
                3. The Chief Technology Officer shall be subject to the 
                postemployment provisions of section 207 of title 18 as 
                if the position of Chief Technology Officer were 
                described in section 207(c)(2)(A)(i) of that title.
                    ``(B) Bonus.--In addition to the annual rate of 
                basic pay authorized by subparagraph (A), the Chief 
                Technology Officer may receive a bonus for any calendar 
                year not to exceed 30 percent of the annual rate of 
                basic pay, based upon the Secretary's evaluation of the 
                Chief Technology Officer's performance in relation to 
                the performance targets established under paragraph 
                (4).
            ``(4) Annual performance targets.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The Administrator and the Chief 
                Operating Officer, in consultation with the Chief 
                Technology Officer, shall establish measurable annual 
                performance targets for the Chief Technology Officer in 
                key operational areas.
                    ``(B) Report.--The Administrator shall transmit to 
                the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
                the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
                Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
                report describing the annual performance targets 
                established under subparagraph (A).
            ``(5) Annual performance report.--The Chief Technology 
        Officer shall prepare and transmit to the Secretary of 
        Transportation, the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the 
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
        Senate an annual report containing--
                    ``(A) detailed descriptions and metrics of how 
                successful the Chief Technology Officer was in meeting 
                the annual performance targets established under 
                paragraph (4); and
                    ``(B) other information as may be requested by the 
                Administrator and the Chief Operating Officer.''.
    (b) Conforming Amendments.--
            (1) Section 709(a)(3)(L) of the Vision 100-Century of 
        Aviation Reauthorization Act (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended 
        by striking ``Chief NextGen Officer'' and inserting ``Chief 
        Technology Officer''.
            (2) Section 804(a)(4)(A) of the FAA Modernization and 
        Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 44501 note) is amended by 
        striking ``Chief NextGen Officer'' and inserting ``Chief 
        Technology Officer''.

SEC. 546. INTRA-AGENCY COORDINATION.

    Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Secretary of Transportation shall direct the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration and the Chief Operating Officer of the 
Air Traffic Organization to implement policies that--
            (1) designate the Associate Administrator for Commercial 
        Space Transportation as the primary liaison between the 
        commercial space transportation industry and the 
        Administration;
            (2) recognize the necessity of, and set forth processes 
        for, launch license and permit holder coordination with the Air 
        Traffic Organization on matters including--
                    (A) the use of air navigation facilities;
                    (B) airspace safety; and
                    (C) planning of commercial space launch and launch 
                support activities;
            (3) designate a single point of contact within the Air 
        Traffic Organization who is responsible for--
                    (A) maintaining letters of agreement between a 
                launch license or permit holder and a Federal Aviation 
                Administration facility;
                    (B) making such letters of agreement available to 
                the Associate Administrator for Commercial Space 
                Transportation;
                    (C) ensuring that a facility that has entered into 
                such a letter of agreement is aware of and fulfills its 
                responsibilities under the letter; and
                    (D) liaising between the Air Traffic Organization 
                and the Associate Administrator for Commercial Space 
                Transportation on any matter relating to such a letter 
                of agreement; and
            (4) require the Associate Administrator for Commercial 
        Space Transportation to facilitate, upon the request of a 
        launch license or permit holder--
                    (A) coordination between a launch license and 
                permit holder and the Air Traffic Organization; and
                    (B) the negotiation of letters of agreement between 
                a launch license or permit holder and a Federal 
                Aviation Administration facility or the Air Traffic 
                Organization.

SEC. 547. FAA CIVIL AVIATION REGISTRY UPGRADE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall complete covered upgrades of the Administration's Civil Aviation 
Registry (in this section referred to as the ``Registry'').
    (b) Covered Upgrade Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered 
upgrades'' means--
            (1) the digitization of nondigital Registry information, 
        including paper documents, microfilm images, and photographs, 
        from an analog or nondigital format to a digital format;
            (2) the digitalization of Registry manual and paper-based 
        processes, business operations, and functions by leveraging 
        digital technologies and a broader use of digitized data;
            (3) the implementation of systems allowing a member of the 
        public to submit any information or form to the Registry and 
        conduct any transaction with the Registry by electronic or 
        other remote means; and
            (4) allowing more efficient, broader, and remote access to 
        the Registry.
    (c) Applicability.--The requirements of subsection (a) shall apply 
to the entire Civil Aviation Registry, including the Aircraft 
Registration Branch and the Airmen Certification Branch.
    (d) Manual Surcharge.--Chapter 453 of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 45306. Manual surcharge
    ``(a) In General.--Not later 6 months after the date of enactment 
of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, the Administrator shall impose 
and collect a surcharge on a Civil Aviation Registry transaction that--
            ``(1) is conducted in person at the Civil Aviation 
        Registry;
            ``(2) could be conducted, as determined by the 
        Administrator, with the same or greater level of efficiency by 
        electronic or other remote means; and
            ``(3) is not related to research or other non-commercial 
        activities.
    ``(b) Maximum Surcharge.--A surcharge imposed and collected under 
subsection (a) shall not exceed twice the maximum fee the Administrator 
is authorized to charge for the registration of an aircraft, not used 
to provide air transportation, after the transfer of ownership under 
section 45302(b)(2).
    ``(c) Credit to Account and Availability.--Monies collected from a 
surcharge imposed under subsection (a) shall be treated as monies 
collected under section 45302 and subject to the terms and conditions 
set forth in section 45302(d).''.
    (e) Report.--Not later than 1 year after date of enactment of this 
Act, and annually thereafter until the covered upgrades required under 
subsection (a) are complete, the Administrator shall submit a report to 
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate describing--
            (1) the schedule for the covered upgrades to the Registry;
            (2) the office responsible for the implementation of the 
        such covered upgrades;
            (3) the metrics being used to measure progress in 
        implementing the covered upgrades; and
            (4) the status of the covered upgrades as of the date of 
        the report.

SEC. 548. REGULATORY STREAMLINING.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue a 
final regulation revising section 121.333(c)(3) of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, to apply only to flight altitudes above flight 
level 410.

SEC. 549. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES FRANCHISE FUND.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment 
of this section, the inspector general of the Department of 
Transportation shall initiate an audit of the Administrative Services 
Franchise Fund of the FAA (in this section referred to as the 
``Franchise Fund'').
    (b) Considerations.--In conducting the audit pursuant to subsection 
(a), the inspector general shall--
            (1) review the history, intended purpose, and objectives of 
        the Franchise Fund;
            (2) describe and assess each program, service, or activity 
        that uses the Franchise Fund, including--
                    (A) the agencies or government bodies that use each 
                program, service, or activity;
                    (B) the number of employees, including full-time 
                equivalents and contractors, associated with each 
                program, service, or activity;
                    (C) the costs associated with the employees 
                described in subparagraph (B) and the extent to which 
                such costs are covered by Federal appropriations or 
                Franchise Fund revenue;
                    (D) the revenue, expenses, and profits or losses 
                associated with each program, service, or activity;
                    (E) overhead rates associated with each program, 
                service, or activity; and
                    (F) a breakdown of the revenue collected from 
                services provided to the FAA, Department of 
                Transportation, other Federal entities, and non-Federal 
                entities;
            (3) assess the FAA's governance and oversight of the 
        Franchise Fund and the programs, service, and activities that 
        use the Franchise Fund, including the use of internal and 
        publicly available performance metrics;
            (4) evaluate the current and historical unobligated and 
        unexpended balances of the Franchise Fund; and
            (5) assess the degree to which FAA policies and controls 
        associated with the Franchise Fund conform with generally 
        accepted accounting principles, Federal policies, best 
        practices, or other guidance relating to revolving funds.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of initiation 
of the audit described in subsection (a), the Inspector General shall 
submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the audit, 
including findings and recommendations.
    (d) Definition.--In this section, the term ``FAA'' means the 
Federal Aviation Administration.

SEC. 550. REPORT ON AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL MODERNIZATION.

    (a) FAA Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Chief Operating Officer of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall submit to the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report describing 
the multiyear effort of the Administration to modernize the air 
transportation system (in this section referred to as the 
``modernization effort''), including--
            (1) the number of years that the modernization effort has 
        been underway as of the date of the report;
            (2) the total amount of money expended on the modernization 
        effort as of the date of the report (including a description of 
        how that amount was calculated);
            (3) the net present value of the benefits reported from 
        aircraft operators resulting from the money expended on the 
        modernization effort as of the date of the report;
            (4) a definition for the Next Generation Air Transportation 
        System (in this section referred to as ``NextGen''), including 
        a description of any changes to that definition that occurred 
        between 2003 and the date of the report;
            (5) the net present value of the money expended on NextGen 
        as of the date of the report if such money had been deposited 
        into a Government trust fund instead of being expended on 
        NextGen;
            (6) a description of the benefits promised and benefits 
        delivered with respect to NextGen as of the date of the report;
            (7) any changes to the benefits promised with respect to 
        NextGen between the date on which NextGen began and the date of 
        the report;
            (8) a description of each program or project that comprises 
        NextGen, including--
                    (A) when the program or project was initiated;
                    (B) the total budget for the program or project;
                    (C) the initial budget for the program or project;
                    (D) the acquisition program baseline for the 
                program or project;
                    (E) whether the program or project has ever 
                breached the acquisition program baseline and, if so, a 
                description of when, why, and how the breach was 
                resolved;
                    (F) whether the program or project has been re-
                baselined or divided into smaller segments and, if so, 
                a description of when, why, and the impact to the cost 
                of the program or project;
                    (G) the initial schedule for the program or 
                project;
                    (H) whether the program or project was delayed and, 
                if so, a description of how long, why, and the impact 
                to the cost of the program or project;
                    (I) whether the Administration changed any contract 
                term or deliverable for the program or project and, if 
                so, a description of the change, why it happened, and 
                the impact to the cost of the program or project;
                    (J) benefits promised with respect to the program 
                or project at initiation;
                    (K) benefits delivered with respect to the program 
                or project as of the date of the report;
                    (L) whether the program or project was cancelled 
                and, if so, a description of why and when;
                    (M) for cancelled programs or projects, whether 
                there were any costs associated with the decision to 
                cancel and, if so, a description of the amount of the 
                costs (including for both the Administration and the 
                private sector);
                    (N) the metrics, milestones, and deadlines set for 
                the program or project and how the Administration 
                tracked and ensured compliance with those metrics, 
                milestones, and deadlines;
                    (O) how the Administration conducted oversight of 
                the program or project and any related stakeholder 
                collaboration efforts; and
                    (P) the status of the program or project as of the 
                date of the report;
            (9) the date upon which, or milestone by which, the 
        Administration anticipates NextGen will be complete; and
            (10) any lessons learned during the NextGen effort, and 
        whether, how, and to what effect those lessons have been 
        applied.
    (b) Inspector General Report.--Not later than 270 days after the 
date on which the report required under subsection (a) is submitted, 
the inspector general of the Department of Transportation shall review 
the report and submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a statement of the 
inspector general that--
            (1) determines the accuracy of the information reported;
            (2) describes any concerns with the accuracy of the 
        information reported;
            (3) summarizes concerns raised by the inspector general, 
        the Government Accountability Office, and other sources with 
        respect to the Administration's implementation and oversight of 
        NextGen since the date on which NextGen began;
            (4) describes--
                    (A) any pertinent recommendations made by the 
                inspector general related to the Administration's 
                implementation and oversight of NextGen since the date 
                on which NextGen began; and
                    (B) whether and how the Administration addressed 
                the recommendations; and
            (5) provides any other information that the inspector 
        general determines is appropriate.

SEC. 551. AUTOMATIC DEPENDENT SURVEILLANCE-BROADCAST.

    Section 211(b) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act (49 U.S.C. 
40101 note) is repealed. The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall ensure that any regulation issued pursuant to such 
subsection has no force or effect.

SEC. 552. YOUTH ACCESS TO AMERICAN JOBS IN AVIATION TASK FORCE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall establish a Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force 
(in this section referred to as the ``Task Force'').
    (b) Duties.--Not later than 12 months after its establishment under 
subsection (a), the Task Force shall develop and submit to the 
Administrator recommendations and strategies for the Administration 
to--
            (1) facilitate and encourage high school students in the 
        United States, beginning in their junior year, to enroll in and 
        complete career and technical education courses, including 
        STEM, that would prepare them to enroll in a course of study 
        related to an aviation career at an institution of higher 
        education, including a community college or trade school;
            (2) facilitate and encourage the students described in 
        paragraph (1) to enroll in a course of study related to an 
        aviation career, including aviation manufacturing, engineering 
        and maintenance, at an institution of higher education, 
        including a community college or trade school; and
            (3) identify and develop pathways for students who complete 
        a course of study described in paragraph (2) to secure 
        registered apprenticeships, workforce development programs, or 
        careers in the aviation industry of the United States.
    (c) Considerations.--When developing recommendations and strategies 
under subsection (b), the Task Force shall--
            (1) identify industry trends that encourage or discourage 
        youth in the United States from pursuing careers in aviation;
            (2) consider how the Administration; air carriers; 
        aircraft, powerplant, and avionics manufacturers; aircraft 
        repair stations; and other aviation stakeholders can coordinate 
        efforts to support youth in pursuing careers in aviation;
            (3) identify methods of enhancing aviation apprenticeships, 
        job skills training, mentorship, education, and outreach 
        programs that are exclusive to youth in the United States; and
            (4) identify potential sources of government and private 
        sector funding, including grants and scholarships, that may be 
        used to carry out the recommendations and strategies described 
        in subsection (b) and to support youth in pursuing careers in 
        aviation.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 30 days after submission of the 
recommendations and strategies under subsection (b), the Task Force 
shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate a report outlining such 
recommendations and strategies.
    (e) Composition of Task Force.--The Administrator shall appoint 
members of the Task Force, including representatives from the 
following:
            (1) Air carriers.
            (2) Aircraft, powerplant, and avionics manufacturers.
            (3) Aircraft repair stations.
            (4) Local educational agencies or high schools.
            (5) Institutions of higher education, including community 
        colleges and aviation trade schools.
            (6) Such other aviation and educational stakeholders and 
        experts as the Administrator considers appropriate.
    (f) Period of Appointment.--Members shall be appointed to the Task 
Force for the duration of the existence of the Task Force.
    (g) Compensation.--Task Force members shall serve without 
compensation.
    (h) Sunset.--The Task Force shall terminate upon the submittal of 
the report pursuant to subsection (d).
    (i) Definition of STEM.--The term ``STEM'' means--
            (1) science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and
            (2) other career and technical education subjects that 
        build on the subjects described in paragraph (1).

SEC. 553. AIRPORT INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM.

    (a) In General.--Section 47134 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
            (1) by striking the section heading and inserting ``Airport 
        investment partnership program'';
            (2) in subsection (b), by striking ``, with respect to not 
        more than 10 airports,'';
            (3) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``The Secretary may 
        grant an exemption to a sponsor'' and inserting ``If the 
        Secretary grants an exemption to a sponsor pursuant to 
        paragraph (1), the Secretary shall grant an exemption to the 
        sponsor'';
            (4) in subsection (b)(3), by striking ``The Secretary may 
        grant an exemption to a purchaser or lessee'' and inserting 
        ``If the Secretary grants an exemption to a sponsor pursuant to 
        paragraph (1), the Secretary shall grant an exemption to the 
        corresponding purchaser or lessee'';
            (5) by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:
    ``(d) Program Participation.--
            ``(1) Multiple airports.--The Secretary may consider 
        applications under this section submitted by a public airport 
        sponsor for multiple airports under the control of the sponsor.
            ``(2) Partial privatization.--A purchaser or lessee may be 
        an entity in which a sponsor has an interest.''; and
            (6) by striking subsections (l) and (m) and inserting the 
        following:
    ``(l) Predevelopment Limitation.--A grant to an airport sponsor 
under this subchapter for predevelopment planning costs relating to the 
preparation of an application or proposed application under this 
section may not exceed $750,000 per application or proposed 
application.''.
    (b) Airport Development.--Section 47102(3) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
                    ``(P) predevelopment planning, including financial, 
                legal, or procurement consulting services, related to 
                an application or proposed application for an exemption 
                under section 47134.''.
    (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 471 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
47134 and inserting the following:

``47134. Airport investment partnership program.''.

SEC. 554. REVIEW AND REFORM OF FAA PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.

    (a) Establishment of Advisory Panel.--Not later than 90 days after 
the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of Transportation 
shall establish an advisory panel comprising no more than 7 
independent, nongovernmental experts in budget, finance, or personnel 
management to review and evaluate the effectiveness of the FAA's 
personnel management system and performance management program for 
employees not covered by collective bargaining agreements.
    (b) Review, Evaluation, and Recommendations.--The advisory panel 
shall, at a minimum--
            (1) review all appropriate FAA orders, policies, 
        procedures, guidance, and the Human Resources Policy Manual;
            (2) review any applicable reports regarding FAA's personnel 
        management system, including reports of the Department of 
        Transportation Office of Inspector General, Government 
        Accountability Office, and National Academy of Public 
        Administration, and determine the status of recommendations 
        made in those reports;
            (3) review the personnel management system of any other 
        agency or governmental entity with a similar system to the FAA 
        for best practices with regard to personnel management;
            (4) assess the unique personnel authorities granted to the 
        FAA, determine whether the FAA has taken full advantage of 
        those authorities, and identify those authorities the FAA has 
        not fully taken advantage of;
            (5) review and determine the overall effectiveness of the 
        FAA's compensation, bonus pay, performance metrics, and 
        evaluation processes for employees not covered by collective 
        bargaining agreements;
            (6) review whether existing performance metrics and bonus 
        pay practices align with the FAA's mission and significantly 
        improve the FAA's provision of air traffic services, 
        implementation of air traffic control modernization 
        initiatives, and accomplishment of other FAA operational 
        objectives;
            (7) identify the highest, lowest, and average complete 
        compensation for each position of employees not covered by 
        collective bargaining agreements;
            (8) survey interested parties and stakeholders, including 
        representatives of the aviation industry, for their views and 
        recommendations regarding improvements to the FAA's personnel 
        management system and performance management program;
            (9) develop recommendations to address the findings of the 
        work done pursuant to paragraphs (1) through (7), and to 
        address views and recommendations raised by interested parties 
        pursuant to paragraph (8); and
            (10) develop recommendations to improve the FAA's personnel 
        management system and performance management program, including 
        the compensation, bonus pay, performance metrics, and 
        evaluation processes, for employees not covered by collective 
        bargaining agreements.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after initiating the review and 
evaluation pursuant to subsection (a), the advisory panel shall submit 
a report on the results of the review and evaluation and its 
recommendations to the Secretary, the Administrator, the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
    (d) Report to Congress.--Not later than 3 months after submittal of 
the report pursuant to subsection (c), the Administrator shall transmit 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report summarizing the findings of the 
advisory panel that--
            (1) contains an explanation of how the Administrator will 
        implement the recommendations of the advisory panel and measure 
        the effectiveness of the recommendations; and
            (2) specifies any recommendations that the Administrator 
        will not implement and the reasons for not implementing such 
        recommendations.
    (e) Authority.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Administrator has the authority to put in place any recommendations of 
the advisory panel.
    (f) Sunset.--The advisory panel shall terminate on the date that is 
60 days after the transmittal of the report pursuant to subsection (d).
    (g) Definition.--In this section, the term ``FAA'' means the 
Federal Aviation Administration.

SEC. 555. CONTRACT WEATHER OBSERVERS.

    Section 2306(b) of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 
2016 (Public Law 114-190; 130 Stat. 641) is amended by striking 
``2018'' and inserting ``2023''.

SEC. 556. REGIONS AND CENTERS.

    (a) In General.--Section 44507 of title 49, United States Code, is 
amended--
            (1) by striking the section heading and inserting ``Regions 
        and centers'';
            (2) by striking ``The Civil Aeromedical Institute'' and 
        inserting the following:
    ``(a) Civil Aeromedical Institute.--The Civil Aeromedical 
Institute''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
    ``(b) William J. Hughes Technical Center.--The Secretary of 
Transportation shall define the roles and responsibilities of the 
William J. Hughes Technical Center in a manner that is consistent with 
the defined roles and responsibilities of the Civil Aeromedical 
Institute under subsection (a).''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 445 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
44507 and inserting the following:

``44507. Regions and centers.''.

SEC. 557. STUDY ON AIRPORT REVENUE DIVERSION.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall initiate a 
study of--
            (1) the legal and financial challenges related to repealing 
        the exception in section 47107(b)(2) of title 49, United States 
        Code, for those airports the Federal Aviation Administration 
        has identified are covered by the exception; and
            (2) measures that may be taken to mitigate the impact of 
        repealing the exception.
    (b) Contents.--The study required under subsection (a) shall 
address--
            (1) the level of revenue diversion at the airports covered 
        by the exception described in subsection (a)(1) and the uses of 
        the diverted revenue;
            (2) the terms of any bonds or financial covenants an 
        airport owner has issued relying on diverted airport revenue;
            (3) applicable local laws or ordinances requiring use of 
        airport revenue for non-airport purposes;
            (4) whether repealing the exception would improve the long-
        term financial performance of impacted airports; and
            (5) any other practical implications of repealing the 
        exception for airports or the national aviation system.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study.

SEC. 558. GEOSYNTHETIC MATERIALS.

    The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, to the 
extent practicable, shall encourage the use of durable, resilient, and 
sustainable materials and practices, including the use of geosynthetic 
materials and other innovative technologies, in carrying out the 
activities of the Federal Aviation Administration.

SEC. 559. RULE FOR ANIMALS.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Secretary shall issue a rule to require each primary airport (as 
defined in section 47102 of title 49, United States Code) to provide a 
designated area for animals, traveling with their owners, to relieve 
themselves.

SEC. 560. ENHANCED AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall establish a pilot 
program to provide air traffic control services on a preferential basis 
to aircraft equipped with certain NextGen avionics that--
            (1) lasts at least 2 years; and
            (2) operates in at 3 least suitable airports.
    (b) Duration of Daily Service.--The air traffic control services 
provided under the pilot program established under subsection (a) shall 
occur for at least 3 consecutive hours between 0600 and 2200 local time 
during each day of the pilot program.
    (c) Airport Selection.--The Administrator shall designate airports 
for participation in the pilot program after consultation with aircraft 
operators, manufacturers, and airport sponsors.
    (d) Definitions.--
            (1) Certain nextgen avionics.--The term ``certain NextGen 
        avionics'' means those avionics and related software designated 
        by the Administrator after consultations with aircraft 
        operators and manufacturers.
            (2) Preferential basis.--The term ``preferential basis'' 
        means--
                    (A) prioritizing aircraft equipped with certain 
                NextGen avionics during a Ground Delay Program by 
                assigning them fewer minutes of delay relative to other 
                aircraft; and
                    (B) sequencing aircraft equipped with certain 
                NextGen avionics ahead of other aircraft in the Traffic 
                Flow Management System to the maximum extent consistent 
                with safety.
    (e) Sunset.--The pilot program established under subsection (a) 
shall terminate on September 30, 2023.
    (f) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the date on which the 
pilot program terminates, the Administrator shall submit to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the pilot 
program.

SEC. 561. NEXTGEN DELIVERY STUDY.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the enactment of this 
Act, the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation shall 
initiate a study of the potential impacts of a significantly delayed, 
significantly diminished, or completely failed delivery of the Next 
Generation Air Transportation System modernization initiative by the 
Federal Aviation Administration, including impacts to the air traffic 
control system and the national airspace system as a whole.
    (b) Scope of Study.--In carrying out the study under subsection 
(a), the Inspector General shall assess the Administration's 
performance related to the Next Generation Air Transportation System 
modernization initiative, including--
            (1) the potential impacts on the operational efficiency of 
        our aviation system;
            (2) an analysis of potential economic losses and stranded 
        investments directly related to NextGen;
            (3) an analysis of the potential impacts to our 
        international competitiveness in aviation innovation;
            (4) an analysis of the main differences that would be seen 
        in our air traffic control system;
            (5) the potential impacts on the flying public, including 
        potential impacts to flight times, fares, and delays in the air 
        and on the ground;
            (6) the effects on supply chains reliant on air 
        transportation of cargo;
            (7) the potential impacts on the long-term benefits 
        promised by NextGen;
            (8) an analysis of the potential impacts on aircraft noise 
        and flight paths;
            (9) the potential changes in separation standards, fuel 
        consumption, flight paths, block times, and landing procedures 
        or lack thereof;
            (10) the potential impacts on aircraft taxi times and 
        aircraft emissions or lack thereof;
            (11) a determination of the total potential costs and 
        logistical challenges of the failure of NextGen, including a 
        comparison of the potential loss of the return on public and 
        private sector investment related to NextGen, as compared to 
        other available investment alternatives, between December 12, 
        2003 and the date of enactment of this Act; and
            (12) other matters arising in the course of the study.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of initiation of 
the study under subsection (a), the Inspector General shall submit to 
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study.

SEC. 562. LIMITED REGULATION OF NON-FEDERALLY SPONSORED PROPERTY.

    (a) In General.--Except as provided by subsection (b), the 
Secretary of Transportation may not directly or indirectly regulate--
            (1) the acquisition, use, lease, encumbrance, transfer, or 
        disposal of land by an airport owner or operator;
            (2) any non-Federal facility upon such land; or
            (3) any portion of such land or facility.
    (b) Exceptions.--Subsection (a) does not apply to any regulation--
            (1) ensuring--
                    (A) the safe and efficient operation of aircraft 
                and airports, including the safety of people and 
                property on the ground;
                    (B) that an airport owner or operator receives not 
                less than fair market value for the lease, use, 
                encumbrance, transfer, or disposal of land, any 
                facilities on such land, or any portion of such land or 
                facilities; or
                    (C) that the airport pays not more than fair market 
                value for the acquisition of land or facilities on such 
                land; or
            (2) imposed with respect to--
                    (A) any land or a facility acquired or modified 
                using--
                            (i) Federal financial assistance, including 
                        Federal grants; or
                            (ii) passenger facility charge revenues 
                        collected under section 40117 of title 49, 
                        United States Code; or
                    (B) any land conveyed to the airport, including its 
                predecessors or successors, by the United States or any 
                agency thereof.
    (c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be 
construed to affect the applicability of section 47107(b) or 47133 of 
title 49, United States Code, to revenues generated by the use, lease, 
encumbrance, transfer, or disposal of land as described in subsection 
(a), facilities upon such land, or any portion of such land or 
facilities.

SEC. 563. NATIONAL AIRMAIL MUSEUM.

    (a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
            (1) in 1930, commercial airmail carriers began operations 
        at Smith Field in Fort Wayne, Indiana;
            (2) the United States lacks a national museum dedicated to 
        airmail; and
            (3) the airmail hangar at Smith Field in Fort Wayne, 
        Indiana--
                    (A) will educate the public on the role of airmail 
                in aviation history; and
                    (B) honor the role of the hangar in the history of 
                the Nation's airmail service.
    (b) Designation.--
            (1) In general.--The airmail museum located at the Smith 
        Field in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is designated as the ``National 
        Airmail Museum''.
            (2) Effect of designation.--The national museum designated 
        by this section is not a unit of the National Park System and 
        the designation of the National Airmail Museum shall not 
        require or permit Federal funds to be expended for any purpose 
        related to that national memorial.

SEC. 564. REVIEW OF APPROVAL PROCESS FOR USE OF LARGE AIR TANKERS AND 
              VERY LARGE AIR TANKERS FOR WILDLAND FIREFIGHTING.

    (a) Review and Improvement of Current Approval Process.--The 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct a 
review of its process to approve the use of large air tankers and very 
large air tankers for wildland firefighting for the purpose of--
            (1) determining the current effectiveness, safety, and 
        consistency of the approval process;
            (2) developing recommendations for improving the 
        effectiveness, safety, and consistency of the approval process; 
        and
            (3) assisting in developing standardized next-generation 
        requirements for air tankers used for firefighting.
    (b) Reporting Requirement.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to Congress a report describing the outcome 
of the review conducted under subsection (a).

SEC. 565. REPORT ON BAGGAGE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

    Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Secretary of Transportation shall--
            (1) study and publicize for comment a cost-benefit analysis 
        to air carriers and consumers of changing the baggage reporting 
        requirements of section 234.6 of title 14, Code of Federal 
        Regulations, before the implementation of such requirements; 
        and
            (2) submit a report on the findings of the cost-benefit 
        analysis to the appropriate committees of the House of 
        Representatives and the Senate.

SEC. 566. SUPPORTING WOMEN'S INVOLVEMENT IN THE AVIATION FIELD.

    (a) Advisory Board.--To encourage women and girls to enter the 
field of aviation, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall create and facilitate the Women in Aviation 
Advisory Board (referred to in this Act as the ``Board''), with the 
objective of promoting organizations and programs that are providing 
education, training, mentorship, outreach, and recruitment of women 
into the aviation industry.
    (b) Composition.--The Board shall consist of members whose diverse 
background and expertise allows them to contribute balanced points of 
view and ideas regarding the strategies and objectives set forth in 
subsection (f).
    (c) Selection.--Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall appoint members of the Board, 
including representatives from the following:
            (1) Major airlines and aerospace companies.
            (2) Nonprofit organizations within the aviation industry.
            (3) Aviation business associations.
            (4) Engineering business associations.
            (5) United States Air Force Auxiliary, Civil Air Patrol.
            (6) Institutions of higher education and aviation trade 
        schools.
    (d) Period of Appointment.--Members shall be appointed to the Board 
for the duration of the existence of the Board.
    (e) Compensation.--Board members shall serve without compensation.
    (f) Duties.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Board shall present a comprehensive plan for 
strategies the Administration can take, which include the following 
objectives:
            (1) Identifying industry trends that directly or indirectly 
        encourage or discourage women from pursuing careers in 
        aviation.
            (2) Coordinating the efforts of airline companies, 
        nonprofit organizations, and aviation and engineering 
        associations to facilitate support for women pursuing careers 
        in aviation.
            (3) Creating opportunities to expand existing scholarship 
        opportunities for women in the aviation industry.
            (4) Enhancing aviation training, mentorship, education, and 
        outreach programs that are exclusive to women.
    (g) Reports.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Board shall submit a report 
        outlining the comprehensive plan for strategies pursuant to 
        subsection (f) to--
                    (A) the Committee on Transportation and 
                Infrastructure of the House of Representatives;
                    (B) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                Transportation of the Senate; and
                    (C) the Administrator.
            (2) Availability online.--The Administrator shall make the 
        report publicly available online and in print.
    (h) Sunset.--The Board shall terminate upon the submittal of the 
report pursuant to subsection (g).

SEC. 567. GAO STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF GRANTING AN EXCLUSIVE RIGHT OF 
              AERONAUTICAL SERVICES TO AN AIRPORT SPONSOR.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the General Accountability Office 
shall conduct a study to examine the cases in which an airport sponsor 
exercised an exclusive right (commonly known as a ``proprietary 
exclusive right''), as described in the Federal Aviation Advisory 
Circular 150/1590-6 published on January 4, 2007.
    (b) Report.--At the end of the 2-year period under subsection (a), 
the Administrator shall submit the findings of such report to the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate.

SEC. 568. EVALUATION OF AIRPORT MASTER PLANS.

    Section 47106 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(h) Evaluation of Airport Master Plans.--When evaluating the 
master plan of an airport for purposes of this subchapter, the 
Secretary shall take into account--
            ``(1) the role the airport plays with respect to medical 
        emergencies and evacuations; and
            ``(2) the role the airport plays in emergency or disaster 
        preparedness in the community served by the airport.''.

SEC. 569. STUDY REGARDING DAY-NIGHT AVERAGE SOUND LEVELS.

    (a) Study.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall evaluate alternative metrics to the current 
average day night level standard, such as the use of actual noise 
sampling and other methods, to address community airplane noise 
concerns.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report on the 
results of the study, including a description of the proposed structure 
of a recommended pilot program.

SEC. 570. REPORT ON STATUS OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN FAA AND LITTLE ROCK 
              PORT AUTHORITY.

    (a) Report Requirement.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
agreement between the Federal Aviation Administration and the Little 
Rock Port Authority to relocate the Little Rock, Very High Frequency 
Omnidirectional Range with Collocated Tactical Air Control and 
Navigation (LIT VORTAC).
    (b) Report Contents.--The report required under subsection (a) 
shall include the following:
            (1) The status of the efforts by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration to relocate the LIT VORTAC.
            (2) The long-term and short-term budget projections for the 
        relocation project.
            (3) A description of and timeline for each phase of the 
        relocation project.
            (4) A description of and explanation for the required 
        location radius.
            (5) A description of work completed by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration as of the date of the report.

SEC. 571. STUDY ON ALLERGIC REACTIONS.

    Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall--
            (1) study the prevalence of allergic reactions on board 
        flights, whether airlines universally report reactions to the 
        Federal Aviation Administration, and the frequency of first aid 
        inventory checks to ensure medicine to prevent anaphylactic 
        shock is in an aircraft; and
            (2) submit a report to the Committees on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure, Energy and Commerce, and Appropriations of the 
        House of Representatives and the Committees on Commerce, 
        Science, and Transportation, Health, Education, Labor, and 
        Pensions, and Appropriations of the Senate.

SEC. 572. ACCESS OF AIR CARRIERS TO INFORMATION ABOUT APPLICANTS TO BE 
              PILOTS FROM NATIONAL DRIVER REGISTER.

    Section 30305(b)(8) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
            ``(8)(A) An individual who is seeking employment by an air 
        carrier as a pilot may request the chief driver licensing 
        official of a State to provide information about the individual 
        under subsection (a) of this section to the prospective 
        employer of the individual, the authorized agent of the 
        prospective employer, or the Secretary of Transportation.
            ``(B) An air carrier that is the prospective employer of an 
        individual described in subparagraph (A), or an authorized 
        agent of such an air carrier, may request and receive 
        information about that individual from the National Driver 
        Register through an organization approved by the Secretary for 
        purposes of requesting, receiving, and transmitting such 
        information directly to the prospective employer of such an 
        individual or the authorized agent of the prospective employer. 
        A request for information shall be made in accordance with the 
        requirements of section 44703(h)(2).
            ``(C) Information may not be obtained from the National 
        Driver Register under this paragraph if the information was 
        entered in the Register more than 5 years before the request 
        unless the information is about a revocation or suspension 
        still in effect on the date of the request.''.

SEC. 573. PROHIBITION REGARDING WEAPONS.

    (a) In General.--Unless authorized by the Administrator of the 
Federal Aviation Administration, a person may not operate an unmanned 
aircraft or unmanned aircraft system that is equipped or armed with a 
dangerous weapon.
    (b) Dangerous Weapon Defined.--In this section, the term 
``dangerous weapon'' has the meaning given that term in section 
930(g)(2) of title 18, United States Code.
    (c) Penalty.--A person who violates this section is liable to the 
United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $25,000 
for each violation.

SEC. 574. HELICOPTER FUEL SYSTEM SAFETY.

    (a) In General.--Chapter 447 of title 49, United States Code, is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 44738. Helicopter fuel system safety
    ``(a) Prohibition.--
            ``(1) In general.--A person may not operate a covered 
        rotorcraft in United States airspace unless the design of the 
        rotorcraft is certified by the Administrator of the Federal 
        Aviation Administration to--
                    ``(A) comply with the requirements applicable to 
                the category of the rotorcraft under paragraphs (1), 
                (2), (3), (5), and (6) of section 27.952(a), section 
                27.952(c), section 27.952(f), section 27.952(g), 
                section 27.963(g) (but allowing for a minimum puncture 
                force of 250 pounds if successfully drop tested in-
                structure), and section 27.975(b) or paragraphs (1), 
                (2), (3), (5), and (6) of section 29.952(a), section 
                29.952(c), section 29.952(f), section 29.952(g),section 
                29.963(b) (but allowing for a minimum puncture force of 
                250 pounds if successfully drop tested in-structure), 
                and 29.975(a)(7) of title 14, Code of Federal 
                Regulations, as in effect on the date of enactment; or
                    ``(B) employ other means acceptable to the 
                Administrator to provide an equivalent level of fuel 
                system crash resistance.
            ``(2) Covered rotorcraft defined.--In this subsection, the 
        term `covered rotorcraft' means a rotorcraft not otherwise 
        required to comply with section 27.952, section 27.963, and 
        section 27.975, or section 29.952, section 29.963, and section 
        29.975 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations as in effect on 
        the date of enactment for which manufacture was completed, as 
        determined by the Administrator, on or after the date that is 
        18 months after the date of enactment of this section.
    ``(b) Administrative Provisions.--The Administrator shall--
            ``(1) expedite the certification and validation of United 
        States and foreign type designs and retrofit kits that improve 
        fuel system crashworthiness; and
            ``(2) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
        of this section, and periodically thereafter, issue a bulletin 
        to--
                    ``(A) inform rotorcraft owners and operators of 
                available modifications to improve fuel system 
                crashworthiness; and
                    ``(B) urge that such modifications be installed as 
                soon as practicable.
    ``(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
construed to affect the operation of a rotorcraft by the Department of 
Defense.''.
    (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 447 of title 49, 
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

``44738. Helicopter fuel system safety.''.

SEC. 575. SAFETY EQUIPMENT STORAGE FACILITIES.

    Section 47102(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
                    ``(P) Constructing storage facilities to shelter 
                snow removal equipment or aircraft rescue and 
                firefighting equipment that is owned by the airport 
                sponsor and used exclusively to maintain safe airfield 
                operations, up to the facility size necessary to 
                accommodate the types and quantities of equipment 
                prescribed by the FAA, regardless of whether Federal 
                funding was used to acquire the equipment.''.

SEC. 576. REPORT ON AIRLINE AND PASSENGER SAFETY.

    (a) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate a report on airline and passenger 
safety.
    (b) Contents.--The report required under subsection (a) shall 
include--
            (1) the average age of commercial aircraft owned and 
        operated by United States air carriers;
            (2) the over-all use of planes, including average lifetime 
        of commercial aircraft;
            (3) the number of hours aircraft are in flight over the 
        life of the aircraft and the average number of hours on 
        domestic and international flights , respectively;
            (4) the impact of metal fatigue on aircraft usage and 
        safety;
            (5) a review on contractor assisted maintenance of 
        commercial aircraft; and
            (6) a re-evaluation of the rules on inspection of aging 
        airplanes.

SEC. 577. REPORT ON AIRCRAFT DIVERSIONS FROM LAX TO HAWTHORNE MUNICIPAL 
              AIRPORT.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall issue 
and make available to the public a report on diversions of aircraft 
from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Hawthorne Municipal 
Airport, also known as Jack Northrop Field, in the City of Hawthorne, 
California. This report shall cover at least the previous one-year 
period and include the total number of aircraft diversions, the average 
number of diversions per day, the types of aircraft diverted, and the 
reasons for the diversions.

SEC. 578. FORMER MILITARY AIRPORTS.

    Section 47118(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1)(C) by striking ``or'' at the end;
            (2) in paragraph (2) by striking the period at the end and 
        inserting ``; or''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(3) the airport is--
                    ``(A) a former military installation; and
                    ``(B) a primary airport.''.

SEC. 579. USE OF STATE HIGHWAY SPECIFICATIONS.

    Section 47114(d)(5) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows:
            ``(5) Use of state highway specifications.--The Secretary 
        shall use the highway specifications of a State for airfield 
        pavement construction and improvement using funds made 
        available under this subsection at nonprimary airports serving 
        aircraft that do not exceed 60,000 pounds gross weight if--
                    ``(A) such State requests the use of such 
                specifications; and
                    ``(B) the Secretary determines that--
                            ``(i) safety will not be negatively 
                        affected; and
                            ``(ii) the life of the pavement, with 
                        necessary maintenance and upkeep, will not be 
                        shorter than it would be if constructed using 
                        Administration standards.''.

SEC. 580. SENSE OF CONGRESS.

    It is the sense of Congress that the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration and the Secretary should produce a smart 
airports initiative plan that focuses on creating a more consumer-
friendly and digitally connected airport experience. The plan should 
include recommendations on modernizing technologies to provide more 
efficient check-ins, shortened security lines, Wi-Fi and GPS upgrades, 
as well as improvements of aircraft turnaround for on-time boarding and 
flights. The purpose of the initiative is to invest in technologies and 
infrastructure toward better-connected airports while providing 
appropriate national security and cybersecurity for travelers.

SEC. 581. OXYGEN MASK DESIGN STUDY.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct 
a study to review and evaluate the design and effectiveness of 
commercial aircraft oxygen masks. In conducting the study, the 
Administrator shall determine whether the current design of oxygen 
masks is adequate, and whether changes to the design could increase 
correct passenger usage of the masks.

SEC. 582. STANDARDS FOR PILOTS.

    (a) Age Adjustment.--Section 44729(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended by striking ``covered operations until attaining 65 
years of age'' and inserting ``covered operations described under 
subsection (b)(1) until attaining 65 years of age and covered 
operations described under subsection (b)(2) until attaining 70 years 
of age''.
    (b) Covered Operations.--Section 44729(b) of title 49, United 
States Code, is amended by striking ``means operations under part 121 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.'' and inserting ``means--
            ``(1) operations under part 121 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations; and
            ``(2) operations by a person that--
                    ``(A) holds an air carrier certificate issued 
                pursuant to part 119 to conduct operations under part 
                135 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; and
                    ``(B) qualifies as a program manager under subpart 
                K of part 91 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations; 
                and
                    ``(C) performed an aggregate total of at least 
                150,000 turbojet operations in--
                            ``(i) calendar year 2017; or
                            ``(ii) any subsequent year.''.
    (c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take 
effect 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 583. STUDY REGARDING TECHNOLOGY USAGE AT AIRPORTS.

    Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall conduct 
a study and report the findings of such study to the appropriate 
committees of Congress regarding--
            (1) technology developed by international entities 
        (including foreign nations and companies) that have been 
        installed in American airports and aviation systems over the 
        past decade, including the nation where the technology was 
        developed and the any airports utilizing the technology; and
            (2) aviation safety related technology developed and 
        implemented by international entities with proven track records 
        of success that may assist in establishing best practices to 
        improve American aviation operations and safety.

SEC. 584. APPLICATIONS FOR DESIGNATION.

    Section 2209 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 
(49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended--
            (1) in subsection (b)(1)(C)--
                    (A) by redesignating clause (iv) as clause (v); and
                    (B) by inserting after clause (iii) the following:
                            ``(iv) Railroad facilities.''; and
            (2) by adding at the end the following:
    ``(e) Deadlines.--
            ``(1) Not later than December 31, 2018, the Administrator 
        shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to carry out the 
        requirements of this section.
            ``(2) Not later than 12 months after publishing the notice 
        of proposed rulemaking under paragraph (1), the Administrator 
        shall issue a final rule.''.

SEC. 585. APPLICABILITY OF MEDICAL CERTIFICATION STANDARDS TO OPERATORS 
              OF AIR BALLOONS.

    (a) Short Title.--This section may be cited a the ``Commercial 
Balloon Pilot Safety Act of 2018''.
    (b) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall revise section 61.3(c) of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations (relating to second-class medical certificates), to 
apply to an operator of an air balloon to the same extent such 
regulations apply to a pilot flight crewmember of other aircraft.
    (c) Air Balloon Defined.--In this section, the term ``air balloon'' 
has the meaning given the term ``balloon'' in section 1.1 of title 14, 
Code of Federal Regulations (or any corresponding similar regulation or 
ruling).

SEC. 586. COST-EFFECTIVENESS ANALYSIS OF EQUIPMENT RENTAL.

    (a) Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Equipment Rental.--
            (1) In general.--With respect to any cost-effectiveness 
        analysis for equipment acquisition conducted on or after the 
        date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this 
        Act, the head of each executive agency shall consider equipment 
        rental in such cost-effectiveness analysis.
            (2) Federal acquisition regulation.--The Federal 
        Acquisition Regulation shall be revised to implement the 
        requirement under paragraph (1).
    (b) Study of Cost-Effectiveness Analysis.--Not later than 2 years 
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of 
the United States shall submit to the Committee on Oversight and 
Government Reform of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a 
comprehensive report on the decisions made by the executive agencies 
with the highest levels of acquisition spending, and a sample of 
executive agencies with lower levels of acquisition spending, to 
acquire high-value equipment by lease, rental, or purchase pursuant to 
subpart 7.4 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
    (c) Definitions.--In this section:
            (1) Equipment rental.--The term ``equipment rental'' means 
        the acquisition of equipment by contract from a commercial 
        source for a temporary period of use with no fixed duration.
            (2) Executive agency.--The term ``executive agency'' has 
        the meaning given that term in section 102 of title 40, United 
        States Code.

SEC. 587. REPORT.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act (except as described in subsection (d)), the Administrator 
of the Federal Aviation Administration shall submit to the appropriate 
congressional committees a report containing the results of the study 
described in subsection (b).
    (b) Recommendations.--The Administrator shall make recommendations 
based on--
            (1) an analysis of--
                    (A) the economic effects of temporary flight 
                restrictions, particularly temporary flight 
                restrictions issued pursuant to section 91.141 of title 
                14, Code of Federal Regulations, on airports or 
                aviation-related businesses located or based in an area 
                covered by the temporary flight restriction; and
                    (B) potential options and recommendations for 
                mitigating identified negative economic effects on 
                airports or aviation-related businesses located or 
                based in an area frequently covered by a temporary 
                flight restriction; and
            (2) an analysis of the potential for using security 
        procedures similar to those described in the Maryland Three 
        Program (allowing properly vetted private pilots to fly to, 
        from, or between the three general aviation airports closest to 
        the National Capital Region) during temporary flight 
        restrictions in the following airports:
                    (A) Solberg Airport.
                    (B) Somerset Airport.
                    (C) Palm Beach County Park Airport (also known as 
                Lantana Airport).
    (c) Collaboration.--In making the recommendations described in 
subsection (b), the Administrator shall consult with--
            (1) industry stakeholders; and
            (2) the head of any other agency that, in the 
        Administrator's determination, is a stakeholder agency.
    (d) Special Deadline.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the 
appropriate congressional committees a report containing the results of 
the portion of the study described in subsection (b)(1)(A).

SEC. 588. STUDY ON INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS OF FAST-GROWING AIRPORTS.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall enter into an agreement with an institution of higher education 
to conduct a study on the infrastructure needs of airports--
            (1) in metropolitan statistical areas with an average 5-
        year, year-to-year population growth rate between 6 and 13 
        percent; and
            (2) with an average 5-year, year-to-year passenger growth 
        rate between 7 and 10 percent.
    (b) Contents.--The study conducted pursuant to subsection (a) shall 
include--
            (1) an assessment of the infrastructure needs of the 
        airports described in subsection (a);
            (2) an examination of how such infrastructure needs are 
        related to the population and economic growth of relevant 
        metropolitan statistical areas;
            (3) an assessment of the infrastructure funding and 
        financing tools available to such airports;
            (4) the development of recommendations on additional 
        funding and financing tools that may provide significant new 
        revenues and flexibility;
            (5) an estimate of the population and economic growth rate 
        of the relevant metropolitan statistical areas over the next 10 
        years; and
            (6) the development of recommendations on how such airports 
        can best fund the infrastructure necessary to accommodate--
                    (A) increases in passenger growth; and
                    (B) population and economic growth in the relevant 
                metropolitan statistical areas.

SEC. 589. AIRCRAFT NOISE RESEARCH AND MITIGATION STRATEGY.

    Not later than 1 year from the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall submit to 
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the Committee on 
Science, Space, and Technology, and the Committee on Appropriations of 
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate a 
5-year aircraft noise research and mitigation strategy.

SEC. 590. ALTERNATIVE AIRPLANE NOISE METRIC EVALUATION DEADLINE.

    Not later than 1 year from the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall complete the 
ongoing evaluation of alternative metrics to the current Day Night 
Level (DNL) 65 standard.

SEC. 591. PERFORMANCE-BASED STANDARDS.

    The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall, to 
the maximum extent possible and consistent with Federal law, and based 
on input by the public, ensure that regulations, guidance, and policies 
issued by the Federal Aviation Administration on and after the date of 
enactment of this Act are issued in the form of performance-based 
standards, providing an equal or higher level of safety.

SEC. 592. REPORT TO CONGRESS.

    Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this section, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, in 
consultation with the National Transportation Safety Board, shall issue 
a report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate that--
            (1) provides a technical review of systems capable of 
        detecting wrong surface alignment to determine whether the 
        capability exists to detect imminent wrong-surface landings at 
        each airport where such a system is in use; and
            (2) includes information gathered from the use of Airport 
        Surface Surveillance Capability System (ASSC) at San Francisco 
        International Airport since July 2017.

SEC. 593. REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS ON CERTAIN AVIATION SAFETY RISKS.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall submit 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate a report that--
            (1) identifies safety risks associated with power outages 
        at airports caused by weather or other factors, and recommends 
        actions to improve resilience of aviation communication, 
        navigation, and surveillance systems in the event of such 
        outages; and
            (2) reviews alerting mechanisms, devices, and procedures 
        for enhancing the situational awareness of pilots and air 
        traffic controllers in the event of a failure or an 
        irregularity of runway lights, and provides recommendations on 
        the further implementation of such mechanisms, devices, or 
        procedures.

SEC. 594. REPORT TO CONGRESS.

    Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this section, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, in 
consultation with the National Transportation Safety Board, shall issue 
a report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate that reviews the relative benefits and 
risks of requiring the use of runway awareness and advisory systems in 
turbine-powered airplanes under the provisions of part 121 or part 129 
of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations.

SEC. 595. REVIEW OF FAA'S AVIATION SAFETY INFORMATION ANALYSIS AND 
              SHARING SYSTEM.

    (a) Audit by Department of Transportation Inspector General.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the enactment 
        of this Act, the Inspector General shall initiate a follow-up 
        review of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Aviation 
        Safety Information Analysis and Sharing (ASIAS) System to 
        assess FAA's efforts and plans to improve the system.
            (2) Review.--The review should include, at a minimum, an 
        evaluation of FAA's efforts to improve the ASIAS system's 
        predictive capabilities and solutions developed to more widely 
        disseminate results of ASIAS data analyses, as well as an 
        update on previous Inspector General recommendations to improve 
        this safety analysis and sharing system.
            (3) Report.--The Inspector General shall submit to the 
        Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
        Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
        Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of its 
        review and any recommendations to improve FAA's ASIAS system.

SEC. 596. CYBERSECURITY AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE STANDARDS PLAN.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall, in 
consultation with the National Institute of Standards and Technology 
and the Committee on Technology of the National Science and Technology 
Council, transmit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Science, Space, and 
Technology of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that 
contains a cybersecurity and artificial intelligence standards plan for 
Federal Aviation Administration operations that takes into 
consideration the influence of cybersecurity on artificial intelligence 
and of artificial intelligence on cybersecurity.

SEC. 597. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON HIRING VETERANS.

    It is the sense of Congress that the aviation industry, including 
certificate holders under parts 121, 135, and 145 of title 14, Code of 
Federal Regulations, should hire more of the Nation's veterans.

SEC. 598. GAO STUDY.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report containing 
a review of the following:
            (1) Direct and indirect effects on passengers, if any, 
        resulting from significant computer network disruptions of 49 
        CFR Part 121 air carriers between January 1, 2014, and the date 
        of enactment of this section, including--
                    (A) systemwide delays;
                    (B) flight cancellations; and
                    (C) disrupted or broken itineraries.
            (2) An estimate of any expenses incurred by passengers 
        during significant computer network disruptions, including--
                    (A) meals, lodging, and ancillary expenses per 
                persons;
                    (B) late hotel check-in or car rental fees;
                    (C) missed cruise-ship departures; and
                    (D) lost productivity.
            (3) Air carriers' contracts of carriage and interline 
        agreements to determine if and how air carriers accommodate 
        passengers affected by significant computer network disruptions 
        on other air carriers or foreign air carriers.
            (4) Whether passengers who have been displaced by 
        significant computer network disruptions are furnished with 
        alternative transportation aboard another air carrier or 
        foreign air carrier.
            (5) Costs incurred by airports, if any, to meet the 
        essential needs of passengers, including increased demands on 
        utilities, food concessionaires, restroom facilities, and 
        security staffing, during significant computer network 
        disruptions.
            (6) Other costs, if any, incurred by passengers, airports, 
        and other entities as a direct result of significant computer 
        network disruptions.
            (7) Processes, plans, and redundancies in place at air 
        carriers to respond to and recover from such network 
        disruptions.

SEC. 599. PROMPT PAYMENTS.

    (a) Reporting of Complaints.--Not later than 30 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration shall ensure that each airport that participates in the 
Program tracks, and reports to the Administrator, the number of covered 
complaints made in relation to activities at that airport.
    (b) Improving Compliance.--
            (1) In general.--The Administrator shall take actions to 
        assess and improve compliance with prompt payment requirements 
        under part 26 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations.
            (2) Contents of assessment.--In carrying out paragraph (1), 
        the Administrator shall assess--
                    (A) whether requirements relating to the inclusion 
                of prompt payment language in contracts are being 
                satisfied;
                    (B) whether and how airports are enforcing prompt 
                payment requirements;
                    (C) the processes by which covered complaints are 
                received and resolved by airports;
                    (D) whether improvements need to be made to--
                            (i) better track covered complaints 
                        received by airports; and
                            (ii) assist the resolution of covered 
                        complaints in a timely manner;
                    (E) the effectiveness of alternative dispute 
                resolution mechanisms with respect to resolving covered 
                complaints;
                    (F) best practices that ensure prompt payment 
                requirements are satisfied;
                    (G) the Federal Aviation Administration resources, 
                including staff, that are dedicated to helping resolve 
                covered complaints; and
                    (H) how the Federal Aviation Administration can 
                enhance efforts to resolve covered complaints, 
                including by using timelines and providing additional 
                staffing and other resources.
            (3) Reporting.--The Administrator shall make available to 
        the public on an appropriate website operated by the 
        Administrator a report describing the results of the assessment 
        completed under this subsection, including a plan to respond to 
        such results.
    (c) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Covered complaint.--The term ``covered complaint'' 
        means a complaint relating to an alleged failure to satisfy a 
        prompt payment requirement under part 26 of title 49, Code of 
        Federal Regulations.
            (2) Program.--The term ``Program'' means the airport 
        disadvantaged business enterprise program referenced in section 
        140(a) of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (49 
        U.S.C. 47113 note).

SEC. 599A. GAO STUDY ON AVIATION WORKFORCE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall initiate a study, based on previous studies, that looks at the 
current and future supply of individuals in the aviation workforce.
    (b) Review.--In carrying out the study, the Comptroller General 
shall review, at a minimum--
            (1) the current state of the aviation workforce;
            (2) barriers to entry into the aviation workforce; and
            (3) options to increase the future supply of individuals in 
        the aviation workforce.
    (c) Submission.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study, including any findings and 
recommendations.

SEC. 599B. METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATIONS.

    Section 134(d)(4) of title 23, United States Code, is amended by 
striking ``Nothing'' and inserting ``Except with respect to a 
metropolitan planning organization whose structure consists of no local 
elected officials, nothing''.

SEC. 599C. STUDY.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States 
shall begin a study of international air cargo services among the 
United States and Central American, South American, and Caribbean Basin 
countries, that--
            (1) analyzes the supply of and demand for air cargo 
        transportation services among the United States and Central 
        American, South American, and Caribbean Basin countries;
            (2) analyzes the supply of and demand for air cargo 
        transportation services between--
                    (A) the United States, Central American, South 
                American, and Caribbean Basin countries; and
                    (B) Africa and Europe;
            (3) identifies the busiest routes in terms of cargo 
        capacity and frequency of air service;
            (4) identifies any air carrier or foreign air carrier hubs 
        in Central American, South American, and Caribbean Basin 
        countries at which a significant amount of air cargo is sorted, 
        handled, or consolidated for transportation to or from the 
        United States;
            (5) identifies any air carrier or foreign air carrier hubs 
        in the United States at which a significant amount of air cargo 
        is sorted, handled, or consolidated for transportation to or 
        from Central American, South American, and Caribbean Basin 
        countries.
            (6) identifies any significant gaps in the air cargo 
        services or cargo air carrier networks--
                    (A) among the countries described in paragraph 
                (2)(A);
                    (B) between such countries and Africa; and
                    (C) between such countries and Europe; and
            (7) assesses the possible impact of the establishment of an 
        air carrier hub in Puerto Rico at which air cargo is sorted, 
        handled, or consolidated for transportation to or from the 
        United States, including the impact on--
                    (A) the employment rate and economy of Puerto Rico;
                    (B) domestic and foreign air transportation of 
                cargo;
                    (C) United States competitiveness in the air 
                transportation of cargo;
                    (D) air cargo operations at other airports in the 
                United States; and
                    (E) domestic air carrier employment.
    (b) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a 
report on the results of the study described in subsection (a).
    (c) Definition.--The term ``Caribbean Basin countries'' has the 
same meaning given the term ``Caribbean Basin country'' in section 501 
of the Food for Peace Act (7 U.S.C. 1737).

SEC. 599D. SPACEPORTS.

    (a) Sense of Congress on State Spaceport Contributions.--It is the 
Sense of Congress that--
            (1) State government-owned and -operated spaceports have 
        contributed hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure 
        improvements to the national space launch infrastructure, 
        providing the United States Government and commercial customers 
        with world-class space launch and processing infrastructure 
        that is necessary to support continued American leadership in 
        space;
            (2) State spaceports play a critical role in providing 
        resiliency and redundancy in the national launch infrastructure 
        to support national security and civil government capabilities, 
        and should be recognized as a critical infrastructure in 
        Federal strategy and planning;
            (3) continued State and local government investments at 
        Federal and non-Federal launch facilities should be encouraged 
        and to the maximum extent practicable supported in Federal 
        policies, planning and infrastructure investment 
        considerations, including through Federal-State partnerships;
            (4) there is currently no Federal infrastructure investment 
        program funding or encouraging State and local government 
        investment in spaceport infrastructure, unlike Federal grant 
        programs to encourage continued investment in all other modes 
        of transportation, including aviation, highways, ports, and 
        rail, which limits opportunities for the Federal government to 
        leverage and coordinate infrastructure investments with State 
        and local governments;
            (5) Federal investments in space infrastructure should 
        enable partnerships between Federal agencies with state 
        spaceports to modernize and enable expanded 21st century space 
        transportation infrastructure, especially multi-modal networks 
        needed for robust space transportation that support national 
        security, civil, and commercial launch customers; and
            (6) States that have made investments to build, maintain, 
        operate, and improve capabilities for national security, civil, 
        and commercial customers should be commended for their 
        infrastructure contributions to both Federal and non-Federal 
        launch sites, and encouraged through a variety of programs and 
        policies to continue these investments in the national 
        interest.
    (b) Establishment of Office of Spaceports.--
            (1) Establishment of office of spaceports.--Title 51, 
        United States Code, is amended by adding at the end of subtitle 
        V the following:

                  ``CHAPTER 515--OFFICE OF SPACEPORTS

``Sec.
``51501. Establishment of Office of Spaceports.
``Sec. 51501. Establishment of Office of Spaceports
    ``(a) Establishment of Office.--Not later than 90 days after the 
date of enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Federal 
Aviation Administration shall identify, within the Office of Commercial 
Space Transportation, a centralized policy office to be known as the 
Office of Spaceports.
    ``(b) Functions.--The Office of Spaceports shall--
            ``(1) support licensing activities for launch sites;
            ``(2) develop policies that promote infrastructure 
        improvements at licensed public launch sites;
            ``(3) provide technical assistance and guidance to licensed 
        public spaceports;
            ``(4) promote United States licensed spaceports within the 
        Department; and
            ``(5) strengthen the Nation's competitiveness in launch 
        infrastructure and increase resilience for the Federal 
        Government and commercial customers.
    ``(c) Recognition.--In carrying out the functions assigned in 
subsection (b), the Secretary shall recognize the unique needs and 
distinctions of spaceports that--
            ``(1) launch to orbit; and
            ``(2) are involved in suborbital launch activities.
    ``(d) Director.--The Associate Administrator for Commercial Space 
Transportation of the Federal Aviation Administration shall designate a 
Director of the Office of Spaceports.
    ``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
            ``(1) Spaceport.--The term `spaceport' means a launch site 
        that is licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration.
            ``(2) Public spaceport.--The term `public spaceport' means 
        a launch site that is licensed by the Federal Aviation 
        Administration and is owned or operated by a State or local 
        governmental entity, including political subdivisions of a 
        State or local government.''.
            (2) Technical and conforming amendment.--The table of 
        chapters of title 51, United State Code, is amended by adding 
        at the end of subtitle V the following:

``515. Office of Spaceports.................................   51501''.
    (c) Report on National Spaceports Policy.--
            (1) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
                    (A) A robust network of space transportation 
                infrastructure, including spaceports licensed by the 
                Federal Aviation Administration, is vital to the growth 
                of the domestic space industry and America's 
                competitiveness and access to space.
                    (B) Non-Federal spaceports licensed by the Federal 
                Aviation Administration have significantly increased 
                the launch infrastructure of the United States through 
                significant investments by State and local governments, 
                which have encouraged greater private investment.
                    (C) These spaceports have led to the development of 
                a growing number of orbital and suborbital launch sites 
                that are available to the national security, civil, and 
                commercial space customers at minimal cost to the 
                Federal Government.
                    (D) The Federal Government, led by the Secretary of 
                Transportation, should seek to promote the growth, 
                resilience, and capabilities of this space 
                infrastructure through policies and through 
                partnerships with State and local governments.
            (2) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 
        submit to Congress a report that--
                    (A) evaluates the Federal Government's national 
                security and civil space launch demands and the needs 
                of the United States and international commercial 
                markets;
                    (B) proposes policies and programs designed to 
                ensure a robust and resilient orbital and suborbital 
                spaceport infrastructure to serve and capitalize on 
                these launch opportunities;
                    (C) reviews the development and investments made by 
                international competitors in foreign spaceports;
                    (D) makes recommendations on how the Federal 
                Government can support, encourage, promote, and 
                facilitate greater investments in infrastructure at 
                public spaceports licensed by the Federal Aviation 
                Administration; and
                    (E) considers and makes recommendations about how 
                spaceports licensed by the Federal Aviation 
                Administration can fully support and enable the 
                national space policy.
            (3) Updates to the report.--Not later than 3 years after 
        the date of enactment of this Act and every 2 years thereafter, 
        the Secretary shall--
                    (A) update the previous report prepared under this 
                subsection; and
                    (B) submit the updated report to Congress.
            (4) Consultations required.--In preparing the reports 
        required by this subsection, the Secretary shall consult with 
        individuals including--
                    (A) the Secretary of Defense;
                    (B) the Administrator of the National Oceanic and 
                Atmospheric Administration;
                    (C) the Administrator of the National Aeronautics 
                and Space Administration; and
                    (D) interested persons at spaceports, State and 
                local governments, and industry.
    (d) Report on Space Transportation Infrastructure Matching 
Grants.--
            (1) GAO study and report.--The Comptroller General of the 
        United States shall conduct a study regarding spaceport 
        activities carried out pursuant to chapters 509 and 511 of 
        title 51, United States Code, including--
                    (A) an assessment of potential mechanisms to 
                provide Federal support to spaceports, including the 
                airport improvement program established under 
                subchapter I of chapter 471 of title 49, United States 
                Code, and the program established under chapter 511 of 
                title 51, United States Code;
                    (B) recommendations for potential funding options, 
                including funds that may be collected from launch 
                providers or launch customers; and
                    (C) any necessary changes to improve the spaceport 
                application review process.
            (2) Consultation.--In carrying out the study described in 
        paragraph (1), the Comptroller General shall consult with 
        sources from each component of the launch process, including 
        interested persons in industry and government officials at the 
        Federal, State, and local levels.
            (3) User-funded spaceports.--In reviewing funding options, 
        the Comptroller General shall distinguish between spaceports 
        that are funded by users and those that are not.
            (4) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to 
        Congress a report containing results of the study conducted 
        under paragraph (1).

SEC. 599E. MANDATORY USE OF THE NEW YORK NORTH SHORE HELICOPTER ROUTE.

    (a) Public Comment Period.--
            (1) In general.--The Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
        Administration shall provide notice of, and an opportunity for, 
        at least 60 days of public comment with respect to the 
        regulations in subpart H of part 93 of title 14, Code of 
        Federal Regulations.
            (2) Timing.--The public comment period required under 
        paragraph (1) shall begin not later than 30 days after the date 
        of enactment of this Act.
    (b) Public Hearing.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall hold a public hearing in 
the communities impacted by the regulations described in subsection 
(a)(1) to solicit feedback with respect to the regulations.
    (c) Review.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall initiate a review of the regulations 
described in subsection (a)(1) that assesses the--
            (1) noise impacts of the regulations for communities, 
        including communities in locations where aircraft are 
        transitioning to or from a destination or point of landing;
            (2) enforcement of applicable flight standards, including 
        requirements for helicopters operating on the relevant route to 
        remain at or above 2,500 feet mean sea level; and
            (3) availability of alternative or supplemental routes to 
        reduce the noise impacts of the regulations, including the 
        institution of an all water route over the Atlantic Ocean.

SEC. 599F. STUDY ON DIVERSITY OF CYBERSECURITY WORKFORCE OF FAA.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration 
shall enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences to 
conduct a study on the diversity of the cybersecurity workforce of the 
Administration in order to develop recommendations to increase the 
size, quality, and diversity of such workforce, including cybersecurity 
researchers and specialists.
    (b) Report to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after the 
completion of the study conducted under subsection (a), the 
Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the 
results of such study.

SEC. 599G. FEDERAL AUTHORITY.

    (a) In General.--Section 14501(c) of title 49, United States Code, 
is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``paragraphs (2) and (3)'' 
        and inserting ``paragraphs (3) and (4)'';
            (2) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (5) as 
        paragraphs (3) through (6) respectively;
            (3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
            ``(2) Additional limitation.--
                    ``(A) In general.--A State, political subdivision 
                of a State, or political authority of 2 or more States 
                may not enact or enforce a law, regulation, or other 
                provision having the force and effect of law 
                prohibiting employees whose hours of service are 
                subject to regulation by the Secretary under section 
                31502 from working to the full extent permitted or at 
                such times as permitted under such section, or imposing 
                any additional obligations on motor carriers if such 
                employees work to the full extent or at such times as 
                permitted under such section, including any related 
                activities regulated under part 395 of title 49, Code 
                of Federal Regulations.
                    ``(B) Statutory construction.--Nothing in this 
                paragraph shall be construed to limit the provisions of 
                paragraph (1).'';
            (4) in paragraph (3) (as redesignated) by striking 
        ``Paragraph (1)--'' and inserting ``Paragraphs (1) and (2)--''; 
        and
            (5) in paragraph (4)(A) (as redesignated) by striking 
        ``Paragraph (1)'' and inserting ``Paragraphs (1) and (2)''.
    (b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall have 
the force and effect as if enacted on the date of enactment of the 
Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act of 1994 (Public Law 
103-305).

SEC. 599H. NATIONAL HIRING STANDARD OF CARE.

    (a) In General.--An entity hiring a federally licensed motor 
carrier shall be deemed to have made the selection of the motor carrier 
in a reasonable and prudent manner if before tendering a shipment, but 
not more than 45 days before the pickup of the shipment by the hired 
motor carrier, that entity verified that the motor carrier, at the time 
of such verification--
            (1) is registered with and authorized by the Federal Motor 
        Carrier Safety Administration to operate as a motor carrier or 
        household goods motor carrier, if applicable;
            (2) has the minimum insurance coverage required by Federal 
        law; and
            (3)(A) before the safety fitness determination regulations 
        are issued, does not have an unsatisfactory safety fitness 
        determination issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety 
        Administration in force at the time of such verification; or
            (B) beginning on the date that revised safety fitness 
        determination regulations are implemented, does not have a 
        safety fitness rating issued by the Federal Motor Carrier 
        Safety Administration under such regulations that would place a 
        motor carrier out-of-service.
    (b) Guidelines.--Not later than 30 days after the implementation of 
the safety fitness determination referenced in subsection (a)(3), the 
Secretary shall issue guidelines that specifically outline how a motor 
carrier's operating authority and registration number could be revoked 
and subsequently placing them out-of-service.

                 TITLE VI--DISASTER RECOVERY REFORM ACT

SEC. 601. APPLICABILITY.

    Except as otherwise expressly provided, the amendments in this 
title to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.) apply to each major disaster 
and emergency declared by the President on or after August 1, 2017, 
under such Act.

SEC. 602. STATE DEFINED.

    In this title, the term ``State'' has the meaning given that term 
in section 102(4) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5122(4)).

SEC. 603. WILDFIRE PREVENTION.

    (a) Mitigation Assistance.--Section 420 of the Robert T. Stafford 
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5187) is 
amended--
            (1) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); and
            (2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
    ``(d) Hazard Mitigation Assistance.--Whether or not a major 
disaster is declared, the President may provide hazard mitigation 
assistance in accordance with section 404 in any area affected by a 
fire for which assistance was provided under this section.''.
    (b) Conforming Amendments.--The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief 
and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.) is amended--
            (1) in section 404(a) (42 U.S.C. 5170c(a)) (as amended by 
        section 636(a) of this Act)--
                    (A) by inserting before the first period ``, or any 
                area affected by a fire for which assistance was 
                provided under section 420''; and
                    (B) in the third sentence by inserting ``or event 
                under section 420'' after ``major disaster'' each place 
                it appears; and
            (2) in section 322(e)(1) (42 U.S.C. 5165(e)(1)), by 
        inserting ``or event under section 420'' after ``major 
        disaster'' each place it appears.
    (c) Reporting Requirement.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act and annually thereafter, the Administrator of the 
Federal Emergency Management Agency shall submit to the Committee on 
Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate, the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, 
and the Appropriations Committees of the Senate and the House of 
Representatives a report containing a summary of any projects carried 
out, and any funding provided to those projects, under subsection (d) 
of section 420 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5187) (as amended by this section).

SEC. 604. ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES.

    Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170c) is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
    ``(f) Use of Assistance.--Recipients of hazard mitigation 
assistance provided under this section and section 203 may use the 
assistance to conduct activities to help reduce the risk of future 
damage, hardship, loss, or suffering in any area affected by a wildfire 
or windstorm, including--
            ``(1) reseeding ground cover with quick-growing or native 
        species;
            ``(2) mulching with straw or chipped wood;
            ``(3) constructing straw, rock, or log dams in small 
        tributaries to prevent flooding;
            ``(4) placing logs and other erosion barriers to catch 
        sediment on hill slopes;
            ``(5) installing debris traps to modify road and trail 
        drainage mechanisms;
            ``(6) modifying or removing culverts to allow drainage to 
        flow freely;
            ``(7) adding drainage dips and constructing emergency 
        spillways to keep roads and bridges from washing out during 
        floods;
            ``(8) planting grass to prevent the spread of noxious 
        weeds;
            ``(9) installing warning signs;
            ``(10) establishing defensible space measures;
            ``(11) reducing hazardous fuels;
            ``(12) windstorm damage, including replacing or installing 
        electrical transmission or distribution utility pole structures 
        with poles that are resilient to extreme wind and combined ice 
        and wind loadings for the basic wind speeds and ice conditions 
        associated with the relevant location;
            ``(13) removing standing burned trees; and
            ``(14) replacing water systems that have been burned and 
        have caused contamination.''.

SEC. 605. ELIGIBILITY FOR CODE IMPLEMENTATION AND ENFORCEMENT.

    Section 406(a)(2) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5172(a)(2)) is amended--
            (1) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (B);
            (2) by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (C) 
        and inserting ``; and''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
                    ``(D) base and overtime wages for extra hires to 
                facilitate the implementation and enforcement of 
                adopted building codes for a period of not more than 
                180 days after the major disaster is declared.''.

SEC. 606. PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS.

    (a) Hazard Mitigation.--Section 406(c) of the Robert T. Stafford 
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5172(c)) is 
amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``90 percent of''; and
            (2) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ``75 percent of''.
    (b) Participation.--Section 428(d) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 5189f) is 
amended--
            (1) by inserting ``(1) In general.--'' before 
        ``Participation in''; and
            (2) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(2) No conditions.--The President may not condition the 
        provision of Federal assistance under this Act on the election 
        by a State, Tribal, or local government, or owner or operator 
        of a private nonprofit facility to participate in the 
        alternative procedures adopted under this section.''.
    (c) Certification.--Section 428(e)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 
5189f(e)(1)) is amended--
            (1) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``and'' at the end;
            (2) in subparagraph (F), by striking the period and 
        inserting ``; and''; and
            (3) by adding at the end the following:
                    ``(G) once certified by a professionally licensed 
                engineer and accepted by the Administrator, the 
                estimates on which grants made pursuant to this section 
                are based shall be presumed to be reasonable and 
                eligible costs, as long as there is no evidence of 
                fraud.''.

SEC. 607. PRIORITIZATION OF FACILITIES.

    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall 
provide guidance and training on an annual basis to State, Tribal, and 
local governments, first responders, and utility companies on--
            (1) the need to prioritize assistance to hospitals, nursing 
        homes, and other long-term care facilities to ensure that such 
        health care facilities remain functioning or return to 
        functioning as soon as practicable during power outages caused 
        by natural hazards, including severe weather events;
            (2) how hospitals, nursing homes and other long-term care 
        facilities should adequately prepare for power outages during a 
        major disaster or emergency; and
            (3) how State, Tribal, and local governments, first 
        responders, utility companies, hospitals, nursing homes, and 
        other long-term care facilities should develop a strategy to 
        coordinate emergency response plans, including the activation 
        of emergency response plans, in anticipation of a major 
        disaster, including severe weather events.

SEC. 608. GUIDANCE ON EVACUATION ROUTES.

    (a) In General.--
            (1) Identification.--The Administrator of the Federal 
        Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with the 
        Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration, shall 
        develop and issue guidance for State, local, and Tribal 
        governments regarding the identification of evacuation routes.
            (2) Guidance.--The Administrator of the Federal Highway 
        Administration, in coordination with the Administrator of the 
        Federal Emergency Management Agency, shall revise existing 
        guidance or issue new guidance as appropriate for State, local, 
        and Tribal governments regarding the design, construction, 
        maintenance, and repair of evacuation routes.
    (b) Considerations.--
            (1) Identification.--In developing the guidance under 
        subsection (a)(1), the Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
        Management Agency shall consider--
                    (A) whether evacuation routes have resisted impacts 
                and recovered quickly from disasters, regardless of 
                cause;
                    (B) the need to evacuate special needs populations, 
                including--
                            (i) individuals with a physical or mental 
                        disability;
                            (ii) individuals in schools, daycare 
                        centers, mobile home parks, prisons, nursing 
                        homes and other long-term care facilities, and 
                        detention centers;
                            (iii) individuals with limited-English 
                        proficiency;
                            (iv) the elderly; and
                            (v) individuals who are tourists, seasonal 
                        workers, or homeless;
                    (C) the sharing of information and other public 
                communications with evacuees during evacuations;
                    (D) the sheltering of evacuees, including the care, 
                protection, and sheltering of animals;
                    (E) the return of evacuees to their homes; and
                    (F) such other items the Administrator considers 
                appropriate.
            (2) Design, construction, maintenance, and repair.--In 
        revising or issuing guidance under (a)(2), the Administrator of 
        the Federal Highway Administration shall consider--
                    (A) methods that assist evacuation routes to--
                            (i) withstand likely risks to viability, 
                        including flammability and hydrostatic forces;
                            (ii) improve durability, strength 
                        (including the ability to withstand tensile 
                        stresses and compressive stresses), and 
                        sustainability; and
                            (iii) provide for long-term cost savings;
                    (B) the ability of evacuation routes to effectively 
                manage contraflow operations;
                    (C) for evacuation routes on public lands, the 
                viewpoints of the applicable Federal land management 
                agency regarding emergency operations, sustainability, 
                and resource protection; and
                    (D) such other items the Administrator considers 
                appropriate.

SEC. 609. DUPLICATION OF BENEFITS.

    (a) In General.--Section 312(b) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5155(b)) is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
            ``(4) Waiver of general prohibition.--
                    ``(A) In general.--The President may waive the 
                general prohibition provided in subsection (a) upon 
                request of a Governor on behalf of the State or on 
                behalf of a person, business concern, or any other 
                entity suffering losses as a result of a major disaster 
                or emergency, if the President finds such waiver is in 
                the public interest and will not result in waste, 
                fraud, or abuse. In making this decision, the President 
                may consider the following:
                            ``(i) The recommendations of the 
                        Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
                        Management Agency made in consultation with the 
                        Federal agency or agencies administering the 
                        duplicative program.
                            ``(ii) If a waiver is granted, the 
                        assistance to be funded is cost effective.
                            ``(iii) Equity and good conscience.
                            ``(iv) Other matters of public policy 
                        considered appropriate by the President.
                    ``(B) Grant or denial of waiver.--A request under 
                subparagraph (A) shall be granted or denied not later 
                than 45 days after submission of such request.
                    ``(C) Prohibition on determination that loan is a 
                duplication.--Notwithstanding subsection (c), in 
                carrying out subparagraph (A), the President may not 
                determine that a loan is a duplication of assistance, 
                provided that all Federal assistance is used toward a 
                loss suffered as a result of the major disaster or 
                emergency.''.
    (b) Funding of a Federally Authorized Water Resources Development 
Project.--
            (1) Eligible activities.--Notwithstanding section 312 of 
        the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance 
        Act (42 U.S.C. 5155) and its implementing regulations, 
        assistance provided pursuant to section 404 of such Act may be 
        used to fund activities authorized for construction within the 
        scope of a federally authorized water resources development 
        project of the Army Corps of Engineers if such activities are 
        also eligible activities under such section.
            (2) Federal funding.--All Federal funding provided under 
        section 404 pursuant to this section shall be applied toward 
        the Federal share of such project.
            (3) Non-federal match.--All non-Federal matching funds 
        required under section 404 pursuant to this section shall be 
        applied toward the non-Federal share of such project.
            (4) Total federal share.--Funding provided under section 
        404 pursuant to this section may not exceed the total Federal 
        share for such project.
            (5) No effect.--Nothing in this section shall--
                    (A) affect the cost-share requirement of a hazard 
                mitigation measure under section 404;
                    (B) affect the eligibility criteria for a hazard 
                mitigation measure under section 404;
                    (C) affect the cost share requirements of a 
                federally authorized water resources development 
                project; and
                    (D) affect the responsibilities of a non-Federal 
                interest with respect to the project, including those 
                related to the provision of lands, easements, rights-
                of-way, dredge material disposal areas, and necessary 
                relocations.
    (c) Applicability.--This section shall apply to each disaster and 
emergency declared pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief 
and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.) after January 1, 
2016.

SEC. 610. STATE ADMINISTRATION OF ASSISTANCE FOR DIRECT TEMPORARY 
              HOUSING AND PERMANENT HOUSING CONSTRUCTION.

    Section 408(f) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5174(f)) is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1), by striking the paragraph heading and 
        inserting ``State- or tribal-administered assistance and other 
        needs assistance.--'';
            (2) in paragraph (1)(A)--
                    (A) by striking ``financial''; and
                    (B) by striking ``subsection (e)'' and inserting 
                ``subsections (c)(1)(B), (c)(4), and (e) if the 
                President and the State or Tribal government comply, as 
                determined by the Administrator, with paragraph (3)'';
            (3) in paragraph (1)(B)--
                    (A) by striking ``financial''; and
                    (B) by striking ``subsection (e)'' and inserting 
                ``subsections (c)(1)(B), (c)(4), and (e)''; and
            (4) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(3) In general.--
                    ``(A) Application.--A State or Tribal government 
                desiring to provide assistance under subsection 
                (c)(1)(B), (c)(4), or (e) shall submit to the President 
                an application for a grant to provide financial 
                assistance under the program.
                    ``(B) Criteria.--The President, in consultation and 
                coordination with State, Tribal, and local governments, 
                shall establish criteria for the approval of 
                applications submitted under subparagraph (A). The 
                criteria shall include, at a minimum--
                            ``(i) the demonstrated ability of the State 
                        or Tribal government to manage the program 
                        under this section;
                            ``(ii) there being in effect a plan 
                        approved by the President as to how the State 
                        or Tribal government will comply with 
                        applicable Federal laws and regulations and how 
                        the State or Tribal government will provide 
                        assistance under its plan;
                            ``(iii) a requirement that the State, 
                        Tribal, or local government comply with rules 
                        and regulations established pursuant to 
                        subsection (j); and
                            ``(iv) a requirement that the President, or 
                        the designee of the President, comply with 
                        subsection (i).
                    ``(C) Quality assurance.--Before approving an 
                application submitted under this section, the 
                President, or the designee of the President, shall 
                institute adequate policies, procedures, and internal 
                controls to prevent waste, fraud, abuse, and program 
                mismanagement for this program and for programs under 
                subsections (c)(1)(B), (c)(4), and (e). The President 
                shall monitor and conduct quality assurance activities 
                on a State or Tribal government's implementation of 
                programs under subsections (c)(1)(B), (c)(4), and (e). 
                If, after approving an application of a State or Tribal 
                government submitted under this section, the President 
                determines that the State or Tribal government is not 
                administering the program established by this section 
                in a manner satisfactory to the President, the 
                President shall withdraw the approval.
                    ``(D) Audits.--The Office of the inspector general 
                shall provide for periodic audits of the programs 
                administered by States and Tribal governments under 
                this subsection.
                    ``(E) Applicable laws.--All Federal laws applicable 
                to the management, administration, or contracting of 
                the programs by the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
                under this section shall be applicable to the 
                management, administration, or contracting by a non-
                Federal entity under this section.
                    ``(F) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the 
                date of enactment of this paragraph, the inspector 
                general of the Department of Homeland Security shall 
                submit a report to the Committee on Homeland Security 
                and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the 
                Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
                House of Representatives on the State or Tribal 
                government's role to provide assistance under this 
                section. The report shall contain an assessment of the 
                effectiveness of the State or Tribal government's role 
                to provide assistance under this section, including--
                            ``(i) whether the State or Tribal 
                        government's role helped to improve the general 
                        speed of disaster recovery;
                            ``(ii) whether the State or Tribal 
                        government providing assistance under this 
                        section had the capacity to administer this 
                        section; and
                            ``(iii) recommendations for changes to 
                        improve the program if the State or Tribal 
                        government's role to administer the programs 
                        should be continued.
                    ``(G) Prohibition.--The President may not condition 
                the provision of Federal assistance under this Act by a 
                State or Tribal government requesting a grant under 
                this section.
                    ``(H) Miscellaneous.--
                            ``(i) Notice and comment.--The 
                        Administrator may waive notice and comment 
                        rulemaking, if the Administrator determines 
                        doing so is necessary to expeditiously 
                        implement this section, and may carry out this 
                        section as a pilot program until such 
                        regulations are promulgated.
                            ``(ii) Final rule.--Not later than 2 years 
                        after the date of enactment of this paragraph, 
                        the Administrator shall issue final regulations 
                        to implement this subsection as amended by the 
                        Disaster Recovery Reform Act.
                            ``(iii) Waiver and expiration.--The 
                        authority under clause (i) and any pilot 
                        program implemented pursuant to such clause 
                        shall expire 2 years after the date of 
                        enactment of this paragraph or upon issuance of 
                        final regulations pursuant to clause (ii), 
                        whichever occurs sooner.''.

SEC. 611. ASSISTANCE TO INDIVIDUALS AND HOUSEHOLDS.

    Section 408(h) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5174(h)) is amended--
            (1) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``, excluding financial 
        assistance to rent alternate housing accommodations under 
        subsection (c)(1)(A)(i) and financial assistance to address 
        other needs under subsection (e)'' after ``disaster'';
            (2) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3);
            (3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
            ``(2) Other needs assistance.--The maximum financial 
        assistance any individual or household may receive under 
        subsection (e) shall be equivalent to the amount set forth in 
        paragraph (1) with respect to a single major disaster.'';
            (4) in paragraph (3) (as so redesignated), by striking 
        ``paragraph (1)'' and inserting ``paragraphs (1) and (2)''; and
            (5) by inserting after paragraph (3) (as so redesignated) 
        the following:
            ``(4) Exclusion of necessary expenses for individuals with 
        disabilities.--
                    ``(A) The maximum amount of assistance established 
                under paragraph (1) shall exclude expenses to repair or 
                replace damaged accessibility-related improvements 
                under paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) of subsection (c) 
                for individuals with disabilities.
                    ``(B) The maximum amount of assistance established 
                under paragraph (2) shall exclude expenses to repair or 
                replace accessibility-related personal property under 
                subsection (e)(2) for individuals with disabilities.''.

SEC. 612. MULTIFAMILY LEASE AND REPAIR ASSISTANCE.

    (a) Lease and Repair of Rental Units for Temporary Housing.--
Section 408(c)(1)(B)(ii)(II) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief 
and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5174(c)(1)(B)(ii)(II)) is 
amended to read as follows:
                                    ``(II) Improvements or repairs.--
                                Under the terms of any lease agreement 
                                for property entered into under this 
                                subsection, the value of the 
                                improvements or repairs shall be 
                                deducted from the value of the lease 
                                agreement.''.
    (b) Rental Properties Impacted.--Section 408(c)(1)(B)(ii)(I)(aa) of 
the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 
U.S.C. 5174(c)(1)(B)(ii)(I)(aa)) is amended to read as follows:
                                            ``(aa) enter into lease 
                                        agreements with owners of 
                                        multifamily rental property 
                                        impacted by a major disaster or 
                                        located in areas covered by a 
                                        major disaster declaration to 
                                        house individuals and 
                                        households eligible for 
                                        assistance under this section; 
                                        and''.
    (c) Inspector General Report.--Not later than 2 years after the 
date of the enactment of this Act, the inspector general of the 
Department of Homeland Security shall assess the use of the authority 
provided under section 408(c)(1)(B) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5174(c)(1)(B)), 
including the adequacy of any benefit-cost analysis done to justify the 
use of this alternative, and submit a report on the results of that 
review to the appropriate committees of Congress.

SEC. 613. PRIVATE NONPROFIT FACILITY.

    Section 102 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5122) is amended in paragraph (11)(B) by 
inserting ``food banks,'' after ``shelter workshops,''.

SEC. 614. MANAGEMENT COSTS.

    Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5165b) is amended--
            (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``any administrative 
        expense, and any other expense not directly chargeable to'' and 
        inserting ``direct administrative cost, and any other 
        administrative expense associated with''; and
            (2) in subsection (b)--
                    (A) by striking ``Notwithstanding'' and inserting 
                the following:
            ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding'';
                    (B) by striking ``establish'' and inserting the 
                following: ``implement''; and
                    (C) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(2) Specific management costs.--The Administrator shall 
        provide the following percentage rates, in addition to the 
        eligible project costs, to cover direct and indirect costs of 
        administering the following programs:
                    ``(A) Hazard mitigation.--A grantee under section 
                404 may be reimbursed not more than 15 percent of the 
                total amount of the grant award under such section of 
                which not more than 10 percent may be used by the 
                grantee and 5 percent by the subgrantee for such costs.
                    ``(B) Public assistance.--A grantee under sections 
                403, 406, 407, and 502 may be reimbursed not more than 
                12 percent of the total award amount under such 
                sections, of which not more than 7 percent may be used 
                by the grantee and 5 percent by the subgrantee for such 
                costs.''.

SEC. 615. FLEXIBILITY.

    (a) Definition.--In this section, the term ``covered assistance'' 
means assistance provided--
            (1) under section 408 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
        Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5174); and
            (2) in relation to a major disaster or emergency declared 
        by the President under section 401 or 501 of the Robert T. 
        Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 
        U.S.C. 5170; 42 U.S.C. 5191) on or after October 28, 2012.
    (b) Waiver Authority.--Notwithstanding section 3716(e) of title 31, 
United States Code, the Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency--
            (1) subject to paragraph (2), may waive a debt owed to the 
        United States related to covered assistance provided to an 
        individual or household if--
                    (A) the covered assistance was distributed based on 
                an error by the Federal Emergency Management Agency;
                    (B) there was no fault on behalf of the debtor; and
                    (C) the collection of the debt would be against 
                equity and good conscience; and
            (2) may not waive a debt under paragraph (1) if the debt 
        involves fraud, the presentation of a false claim, or 
        misrepresentation by the debtor or any party having an interest 
        in the claim.
    (c) Monitoring of Covered Assistance Distributed Based on Error.--
            (1) In general.--The inspector general of the Department of 
        Homeland Security shall monitor the distribution of covered 
        assistance to individuals and households to determine the 
        percentage of such assistance distributed based on an error.
            (2) Removal of waiver authority based on excessive error 
        rate.--If the inspector general determines, with respect to any 
        12-month period, that the amount of covered assistance 
        distributed based on an error by the Federal Emergency 
        Management Agency exceeds 4 percent of the total amount of 
        covered assistance distributed--
                    (A) the inspector general shall notify the 
                Administrator and publish the determination in the 
                Federal Register; and
                    (B) with respect to any major disaster or emergency 
                declared by the President under section 401 or section 
                501, respectively, of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
                Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170; 42 
                U.S.C. 5191) after the date on which the determination 
                is published under subparagraph (A), the authority of 
                the Administrator to waive debt under subsection (b) 
                shall no longer be effective.

SEC. 616. ADDITIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE.

    (a) Disaster Mitigation.--Section 209 of the Public Works and 
Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3149) is amended by adding 
at the end the following:
    ``(e) Disaster Mitigation.--In providing assistance pursuant to 
subsection (c)(2), if appropriate and as applicable, the Secretary may 
encourage hazard mitigation in assistance provided pursuant to such 
subsection.''.
    (b) Emergency Management Assistance Compact Grants.--Section 661(d) 
of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 (6 U.S.C. 
761(d)) is amended by striking ``for fiscal year 2008'' and inserting 
``for each of fiscal years 2018 through 2022''.
    (c) Emergency Management Performance Grants Program.--Section 
662(f) of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 (6 
U.S.C. 762(f)) is amended by striking ``the program'' and all that 
follows through ``2012'' and inserting ``the program, for each of 
fiscal years 2018 through 2022''.
    (d) Technical Amendment.--Section 403(a)(3) of the Robert T. 
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
5170b(a)(3)) is amended by striking the second subparagraph (J).

SEC. 617. NATIONAL VETERINARY EMERGENCY TEAMS.

    (a) In General.--The Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency may establish one or more national veterinary 
emergency teams at accredited colleges of veterinary medicine.
    (b) Responsibilities.--A national veterinary emergency team shall--
            (1) deploy with a team of the National Urban Search and 
        Rescue Response System to assist with--
                    (A) veterinary care of canine search teams;
                    (B) locating and treating companion animals, 
                service animals, livestock, and other animals; and
                    (C) surveillance and treatment of zoonotic 
                diseases;
            (2) recruit, train, and certify veterinary professionals, 
        including veterinary students, in accordance with an 
        established set of plans and standard operating guidelines to 
        carry out the duties associated with planning for and 
        responding to emergencies as described in paragraph (1);
            (3) assist State, Tribal, and local governments and 
        nonprofit organizations in developing emergency management and 
        evacuation plans that account for the care and rescue of 
        animals and in improving local readiness for providing 
        veterinary medical response during a disaster; and
            (4) coordinate with the Department of Homeland Security, 
        the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of 
        Agriculture, State, Tribal, and local governments (including 
        departments of animal and human health), veterinary and health 
        care professionals, and volunteers.

SEC. 618. RIGHT OF ARBITRATION.

    Section 423 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5189a) is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
    ``(d) Right of Arbitration.--
            ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding this section, an 
        applicant for assistance under this title may request 
        arbitration to dispute the eligibility for assistance or 
        repayment of assistance provided for a project of more than 
        $100,000 for any disaster that occurred after January 1, 2016. 
        Such arbitration shall be conducted de novo by the Civilian 
        Board of Contract Appeals and the decision of such Board shall 
        be binding.
            ``(2) Eligibility.--To participate in arbitration under 
        this subsection, an applicant--
                    ``(A) shall submit the dispute to the arbitration 
                process established under the authority granted under 
                section 601 of Public Law 111-5; and
                    ``(B) may submit a request for arbitration in lieu 
                of an appeal under subsection (a) at any time before 
                the Administrator of FEMA has issued a final agency 
                determination.''.

SEC. 619. UNIFIED FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION 
              REVIEW.

    (a) Review and Analysis.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency shall review the Unified Federal Environmental and 
Historic Preservation review process established pursuant to section 
429 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance 
Act (42 U.S.C. 5189g), and submit a report to the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and 
the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the 
Senate that includes the following:
            (1) An analysis of whether and how the unified process has 
        expedited the interagency review process to ensure compliance 
        with the environmental and historic requirements under Federal 
        law relating to disaster recovery projects.
            (2) A survey and analysis of categorical exclusions used by 
        other Federal agencies that may be applicable to any activity 
        related to a Presidentially declared major disaster or 
        emergency under such Act.
            (3) Recommendations on any further actions, including any 
        legislative proposals, needed to expedite and streamline the 
        review process.
    (b) Regulations.--After completing the review, survey, and analyses 
under subsection (a), but not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, and after providing notice and opportunity for 
public comment, the Administrator shall issue regulations to implement 
any regulatory recommendations, including any categorical exclusions 
identified under subsection (a), to the extent that the categorical 
exclusions meet the criteria for a categorical exclusion under section 
1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, and section II of DHS 
Instruction Manual 023-01-001-01.

SEC. 620. CLOSEOUT INCENTIVES.

    (a) Facilitating Closeout.--Section 705 of the Robert T. Stafford 
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5205) is 
amended by adding at the end the following:
    ``(d) Facilitating Closeout.--
            ``(1) Incentives.--The Administrator may develop incentives 
        and penalties that encourage State, Tribal, or local 
        governments to close out expenditures and activities on a 
        timely basis related to disaster or emergency assistance.
            ``(2) Agency requirements.--The Agency shall, consistent 
        with applicable regulations and required procedures, meet its 
        responsibilities to improve closeout practices and reduce the 
        time to close disaster program awards.''.
    (b) Regulations.--The Administrator shall issue regulations to 
implement this section.

SEC. 621. PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES.

    Section 306 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5149) is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
    ``(c) The Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
is authorized to appoint temporary personnel, after serving 
continuously for 3 years, to positions in the Agency in the same manner 
that competitive service employees with competitive status are 
considered for transfer, reassignment, or promotion to such positions. 
An individual appointed under this subsection shall become a career-
conditional employee, unless the employee has already completed the 
service requirements for career tenure.''.

SEC. 622. STUDY TO STREAMLINE AND CONSOLIDATE INFORMATION COLLECTION.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall--
            (1) in coordination with the Small Business Administration, 
        the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Disaster 
        Assistance Working Group of the Council of the Inspectors 
        General on Integrity and Efficiency, and other appropriate 
        agencies, conduct a study and develop a plan, consistent with 
        law, under which the collection of information from disaster 
        assistance applicants and grantees will be modified, 
        streamlined, expedited, efficient, flexible, consolidated, and 
        simplified to be less burdensome, duplicative, and time 
        consuming for applicants and grantees;
            (2) in coordination with the Small Business Administration, 
        the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Disaster 
        Assistance Working Group of the Council of the Inspectors 
        General on Integrity and Efficiency, and other appropriate 
        agencies, develop a plan for the regular collection and 
        reporting of information on Federal disaster assistance 
        awarded, including the establishment and maintenance of a 
        website for presenting the information to the public; and
            (3) submit the plans to the Committee on Transportation and 
        Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the 
        Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the 
        Senate.

SEC. 623. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY.

    Title IV of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act is amended by adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 430. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY.

    ``(a) Public Assistance.--Not later than 5 days after an award of a 
public assistance grant is made under section 406 that is in excess of 
$1,000,000, the Administrator shall publish on the Agency's website the 
specifics of each such grant award, including--
            ``(1) identifying the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
        Region;
            ``(2) the disaster or emergency declaration number;
            ``(3) the State, county, and applicant name;
            ``(4) if the applicant is a private nonprofit organization;
            ``(5) the damage category code;
            ``(6) the amount of the Federal share obligated; and
            ``(7) the date of the award.
    ``(b) Mission Assignments.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than 5 days after the issuance 
        of a mission assignment or mission assignment task order, the 
        Administrator shall publish on the Agency's website any mission 
        assignment or mission assignment task order to another Federal 
        department or agency regarding a major disaster in excess of 
        $1,000,000, including--
                    ``(A) the name of the impacted State or Tribe;
                    ``(B) the disaster declaration for such State or 
                Tribe;
                    ``(C) the assigned agency;
                    ``(D) the assistance requested;
                    ``(E) a description of the disaster;
                    ``(F) the total cost estimate;
                    ``(G) the amount obligated;
                    ``(H) the State or Tribal cost share, if 
                applicable;
                    ``(I) the authority under which the mission 
                assignment or mission assignment task order was 
                directed; and
                    ``(J) if applicable, the date a State or Tribe 
                requested the mission assignment.
            ``(2) Recording changes.--Not later than 10 days after the 
        last day of each month until a mission assignment or mission 
        assignment task order described in paragraph (1) is completed 
        and closed out, the Administrator shall update any changes to 
        the total cost estimate and the amount obligated.
    ``(c) Disaster Relief Monthly Report.--Not later than 10 days after 
the first day of each month, the Administrator shall publish on the 
Agency's website reports, including a specific description of the 
methodology and the source data used in developing such reports, 
including--
            ``(1) an estimate of the amounts for the fiscal year 
        covered by the President's most recent budget pursuant to 
        section 1105(a) of title 31, United States Code, including--
                    ``(A) the unobligated balance of funds to be 
                carried over from the prior fiscal year to the budget 
                year;
                    ``(B) the unobligated balance of funds to be 
                carried over from the budget year to the budget year 
                plus 1;
                    ``(C) the amount of obligations for noncatastrophic 
                events for the budget year;
                    ``(D) the amount of obligations for the budget year 
                for catastrophic events delineated by event and by 
                State;
                    ``(E) the total amount that has been previously 
                obligated or will be required for catastrophic events 
                delineated by event and by State for all prior years, 
                the current fiscal year, the budget year, and each 
                fiscal year thereafter;
                    ``(F) the amount of previously obligated funds that 
                will be recovered for the budget year;
                    ``(G) the amount that will be required for 
                obligations for emergencies, as described in section 
                102(1), major disasters, as described in section 
                102(2), fire management assistance grants, as described 
                in section 420, surge activities, and disaster 
                readiness and support activities; and
                    ``(H) the amount required for activities not 
                covered under section 251(b)(2)(D)(iii) of the Balanced 
                Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (2 
                U.S.C. 901(b)(2)(D)(iii)); and
            ``(2) an estimate or actual amounts, if available, of the 
        following for the current fiscal year shall be submitted not 
        later than the fifth day of each month, published by the 
        Administrator on the Agency's website not later than the fifth 
        day of each month:
                    ``(A) A summary of the amount of appropriations 
                made available by source, the transfers executed, the 
                previously allocated funds recovered, and the 
                commitments, allocations, and obligations made.
                    ``(B) A table of disaster relief activity 
                delineated by month, including--
                            ``(i) the beginning and ending balances;
                            ``(ii) the total obligations to include 
                        amounts obligated for fire assistance, 
                        emergencies, surge, and disaster support 
                        activities;
                            ``(iii) the obligations for catastrophic 
                        events delineated by event and by State; and
                            ``(iv) the amount of previously obligated 
                        funds that are recovered.
                    ``(C) A summary of allocations, obligations, and 
                expenditures for catastrophic events delineated by 
                event.
                    ``(D) The cost of the following categories of 
                spending:
                            ``(i) Public assistance.
                            ``(ii) Individual assistance.
                            ``(iii) Mitigation.
                            ``(iv) Administrative.
                            ``(v) Operations.
                            ``(vi) Any other relevant category 
                        (including emergency measures and disaster 
                        resources) delineated by disaster.
                    ``(E) The date on which funds appropriated will be 
                exhausted.
    ``(d) Contracts.--
            ``(1) Information.--Not later than 10 days after the first 
        day of each month, the Administrator shall publish on the 
        Agency's website the specifics of each contract in excess of 
        $1,000,000 that the Agency enters into, including--
                    ``(A) the name of the party;
                    ``(B) the date the contract was awarded;
                    ``(C) the amount and scope of the contract;
                    ``(D) if the contract was awarded through 
                competitive bidding process;
                    ``(E) if no competitive bidding process was used, 
                the reason why competitive bidding was not used; and
                    ``(F) the authority used to bypass the competitive 
                bidding process.
        The information shall be delineated by disaster, if applicable, 
        and specify the damage category code, if applicable.
            ``(2) Report.--Not later than 10 days after the last day of 
        the fiscal year, the Administrator shall provide a report to 
        the appropriate committees of Congress summarizing the 
        following information for the preceding fiscal year:
                    ``(A) The number of contracts awarded without 
                competitive bidding.
                    ``(B) The reasons why a competitive bidding process 
                was not used.
                    ``(C) The total amount of contracts awarded with no 
                competitive bidding.
                    ``(D) The damage category codes, if applicable, for 
                contracts awarded without competitive bidding.''.

SEC. 624. AUDIT OF CONTRACTS.

    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator of 
the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall not reimburse a State, 
Tribe, or local government or the owner or operator of a private 
nonprofit facility for any activities made pursuant to a contract 
entered into after August 1, 2017, that prohibits the Administrator or 
the Comptroller General of the United States from auditing or otherwise 
reviewing all aspects relating to the contract.

SEC. 625. INSPECTOR GENERAL AUDIT OF FEMA CONTRACTS FOR TARPS AND 
              PLASTIC SHEETING.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the inspector general of the Department of Homeland 
Security shall initiate an audit of the contracts awarded by the 
Federal Emergency Management Agency (in this section referred to as 
``FEMA'') for tarps and plastic sheeting for the Commonwealth of Puerto 
Rico and the United States Virgin Islands in response to Hurricane Irma 
and Hurricane Maria.
    (b) Considerations.--In carrying out the audit under subsection 
(a), the inspector general shall review--
            (1) the contracting process used by FEMA to evaluate 
        offerors and award the relevant contracts to contractors;
            (2) FEMA's assessment of the past performance of the 
        contractors, including any historical information showing that 
        the contractors had supported large-scale delivery quantities 
        in the past;
            (3) FEMA's assessment of the capacity of the contractors to 
        carry out the relevant contracts, including with respect to 
        inventory, production, and financial capabilities;
            (4) how FEMA ensured that the contractors met the terms of 
        the relevant contracts; and
            (5) whether the failure of the contractors to meet the 
        terms of the relevant contracts and FEMA's subsequent 
        cancellation of the relevant contracts affected the provision 
        of tarps and plastic sheeting to the Commonwealth of Puerto 
        Rico and the United States Virgin Islands.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 270 days after the date of initiation 
of the audit under subsection (a), the inspector general shall submit 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental 
Affairs of the Senate a report on the results of the audit, including 
findings and recommendations.

SEC. 626. RELIEF ORGANIZATIONS.

    Section 309 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5152) is amended--
            (1) in subsection (a), by striking ``and other relief or'' 
        and inserting ``long-term recovery groups, domestic hunger 
        relief, and other relief, or''; and
            (2) in subsection (b), by striking ``and other relief or'' 
        and inserting ``long-term recovery groups, domestic hunger 
        relief, and other relief, or''.

SEC. 627. GUIDANCE ON INUNDATED AND SUBMERGED ROADS.

    The Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in 
coordination with the Administrator of the Federal Highway 
Administration, shall develop and issue guidance for State, local, and 
Tribal governments regarding repair, restoration, and replacement of 
inundated and submerged roads damaged or destroyed by a major disaster, 
and for associated expenses incurred by the Government, with respect to 
roads eligible for assistance under section 406 of the Robert T. 
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5172).

SEC. 628. AUTHORITIES.

    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the non-federally 
funded actions of private parties and State, local, or Tribal 
governments, on State, local, Tribal, and private land, and the effects 
of those actions, shall not be attributed to the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency's actions under the National Flood Insurance Act of 
1968 (42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.), the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 
1973 (42 U.S.C. 4002 et seq.), the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance 
Reform Act of 2012 (subtitle A of title II of division F of Public Law 
112-141; 126 Stat. 916), and the Homeowner Flood Insurance 
Affordability Act of 2014 (Public Law 113-89; 128 Stat. 1020) for the 
purposes of section 7 (16 U.S.C. 1536) and section 9 (16 U.S.C. 1538) 
of the Endangered Species Act. Actions taken under the National Flood 
Insurance Act of 1968, the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, the 
Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012, and the Homeowner 
Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014, that may influence private 
actions do not create a Federal nexus for the purpose of applying the 
requirements of section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 
U.S.C. 1536).

SEC. 629. RECOUPMENT OF CERTAIN ASSISTANCE PROHIBITED.

    (a) In General.--Notwithstanding section 3716(e) of title 31, 
United States Code, and unless there is evidence of civil or criminal 
fraud, the Federal Emergency Management Agency may not take any action 
to recoup covered assistance from the recipient of such assistance if 
the receipt of such assistance occurred on a date that is more than 3 
years before the date on which the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
first provides to the recipient written notification of an intent to 
recoup.
    (b) Covered Assistance Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered assistance'' means assistance provided--
            (1) under section 408 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
        Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5174); and
            (2) in relation to a major disaster or emergency declared 
        by the President under section 401 or 501 of such Act (42 
        U.S.C. 5170; 42 U.S.C. 5191) on or after January 1, 2012.

SEC. 630. STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS.

    (a) In General.--Section 705 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5205) is amended--
            (1) in subsection (a)(1)--
                    (A) by striking ``Except'' and inserting 
                ``Notwithstanding section 3716(e) of title 31, United 
                States Code, and except''; and
                    (B) by striking ``report for the disaster or 
                emergency'' and inserting ``report for project 
                completion as certified by the grantee''; and
            (2) in subsection (b)--
                    (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``report for the 
                disaster or emergency'' and inserting ``report for 
                project completion as certified by the grantee''; and
                    (B) in paragraph (3) by inserting ``for project 
                completion as certified by the grantee'' after ``final 
                expenditure report''.
    (b) Applicability.--
            (1) In general.--With respect to disaster or emergency 
        assistance provided to a State or local government on or after 
        January 1, 2004--
                    (A) no administrative action may be taken to 
                recover a payment of such assistance after the date of 
                enactment of this Act if the action is prohibited under 
                section 705(a)(1) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
                Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
                5205(a)(1)), as amended by subsection (a); and
                    (B) any administrative action to recover a payment 
                of such assistance that is pending on such date of 
                enactment shall be terminated if the action is 
                prohibited under section 705(a)(1) of that Act, as 
                amended by subsection (a).
            (2) Limitation.--This section, including the amendments 
        made by this section, may not be construed to invalidate or 
        otherwise affect any administration action completed before the 
        date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 631. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND RECOMMENDATIONS.

    (a) Technical Assistance.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Emergency Management Agency shall provide technical assistance to a 
common interest community that provides essential services of a 
governmental nature on actions that a common interest community may 
take in order to be eligible to receive reimbursement from a grantee 
that receives funds from the Agency for certain activities performed 
after an event that results in a disaster declaration.
    (b) Recommendations.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall provide to the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 
and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the 
Senate a legislative proposal on how to provide eligibility for 
disaster assistance with respect to common areas of condominiums and 
housing cooperatives.

SEC. 632. GUIDANCE ON HAZARD MITIGATION ASSISTANCE.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency shall issue guidance regarding the acquisition of 
property for open space as a mitigation measure under section 404 of 
the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 
U.S.C. 5170c) that includes--
            (1) a process by which the State hazard mitigation officer 
        appointed for such an acquisition shall, not later than 60 days 
        after the applicant for assistance enters into an agreement 
        with the Administrator regarding the acquisition, provide 
        written notification to each affected unit of local government 
        for such acquisition that includes--
                    (A) the location of the acquisition;
                    (B) the State-local assistance agreement for the 
                hazard mitigation grant program;
                    (C) a description of the acquisition; and
                    (D) a copy of the deed restriction; and
            (2) recommendations for entering into and implementing a 
        memorandum of understanding between units of local government 
        and covered entities that includes provisions to allow an 
        affected unit of local government notified under paragraph (1) 
        to--
                    (A) use and maintain the open space created by such 
                a project, consistent with section 404 (including 
                related regulations, standards, and guidance) and 
                consistent with all adjoining property, subject to the 
                notification of the adjoining property, so long as the 
                cost of the maintenance is borne by the local 
                government; and
                    (B) maintain the open space pursuant to standards 
                exceeding any local government standards defined in the 
                agreement with the Administrator described under 
                paragraph (1).
    (b) Definitions.--In this section the following definitions apply:
            (1) Affected unit of local government.--The term ``affected 
        unit of local government'' means any entity covered by the 
        definition of local government in section 102 of the Robert T. 
        Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 
        U.S.C. 5122), that has jurisdiction over the property subject 
        to the acquisition described in subsection (a).
            (2) Covered entity.--The term ``covered entity'' means--
                    (A) the grantee or subgrantee receiving assistance 
                for an open space project described in subsection (a);
                    (B) the State in which such project is located; and
                    (C) the applicable Regional Administrator of the 
                Federal Emergency Management Agency.

SEC. 633. LOCAL IMPACT.

    In making recommendations to the President regarding a major 
disaster declaration, the Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency shall give greater weight and consideration to severe 
local impact or recent multiple disasters. Further, the Administrator 
shall make corresponding adjustments to the Agency's policies and 
regulations regarding such consideration. Not later than 1 year after 
the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator shall report 
to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental 
Affairs of the Senate on the changes made to regulations and policies 
and the number of declarations that have been declared based on the new 
criteria.

SEC. 634. ADDITIONAL HAZARD MITIGATION ACTIVITIES.

    Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170c) is further amended by adding at the 
end the following:
    ``(g) Use of Assistance.--Recipients of hazard mitigation 
assistance provided under this section and section 203 may use the 
assistance to conduct activities to help reduce the risk of future 
damage, hardship, loss, or suffering in any area affected by earthquake 
hazards, including--
            ``(1) improvements to regional seismic networks in support 
        of building a capability for earthquake early warning;
            ``(2) improvements to geodetic networks in support of 
        building a capability for earthquake early warning; and
            ``(3) improvements to seismometers, Global Positioning 
        System receivers, and associated infrastructure in support of 
        building a capability for earthquake early warning.''.

SEC. 635. NATIONAL PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE PREDISASTER HAZARD MITIGATION.

    (a) Predisaster Hazard Mitigation.--Section 203 of the Robert T. 
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5133) 
is amended--
            (1) in subsection (c) by inserting ``Public 
        Infrastructure'' after ``the National'';
            (2) in subsection (e)(1)(B)--
                    (A) by striking ``or'' at the end of clause (ii);
                    (B) by striking the period at the end of clause 
                (iii) and inserting ``; or''; and
                    (C) by adding at the end the following:
                            ``(iv) to establish and carry out 
                        enforcement activities to implement the latest 
                        published editions of relevant consensus-based 
                        codes, specifications, and standards that 
                        incorporate the latest hazard-resistant designs 
                        and establish minimum acceptable criteria for 
                        the design, construction, and maintenance of 
                        residential structures and facilities that may 
                        be eligible for assistance under this Act for 
                        the purpose of protecting the health, safety, 
                        and general welfare of the buildings' users 
                        against disasters.'';
            (3) in subsection (f)--
                    (A) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``for mitigation 
                activities that are cost effective'' after 
                ``competitive basis''; and
                    (B) by adding at the end the following:
            ``(3) Redistribution of unobligated amounts.--The President 
        may--
                    ``(A) withdraw amounts of financial assistance made 
                available to a State (including amounts made available 
                to local governments of a State) under this subsection 
                that remain unobligated by the end of the third fiscal 
                year after the fiscal year for which the amounts were 
                allocated; and
                    ``(B) in the fiscal year following a fiscal year in 
                which amounts were withdrawn under subparagraph (A), 
                add the amounts to any other amounts available to be 
                awarded on a competitive basis pursuant to paragraph 
                (1).'';
            (4) in subsection (g)--
                    (A) in paragraph (9) by striking ``and'' at the 
                end;
                    (B) by redesignating paragraph (10) as paragraph 
                (12); and
                    (C) by adding after paragraph (9) the following:
            ``(10) the extent to which the State or local government 
        has facilitated the adoption and enforcement of the latest 
        published editions of relevant consensus-based codes, 
        specifications, and standards that incorporate the latest 
        hazard-resistant designs and establish criteria for the design, 
        construction, and maintenance of residential structures and 
        facilities that may be eligible for assistance under this Act 
        for the purpose of protecting the health, safety, and general 
        welfare of the buildings' users against disasters;
            ``(11) the extent to which the assistance will fund 
        activities that increase the level of resiliency; and'';
            (5) by striking subsection (i) and inserting the following:
    ``(i) National Public Infrastructure Predisaster Mitigation 
Assistance.--
            ``(1) In general.--The President may set aside from the 
        Disaster Relief Fund, with respect to each major disaster, an 
        amount equal to 6 percent of the estimated aggregate amount of 
        the grants to be made pursuant to sections 403, 406, 407, 408, 
        410, and 416 for the major disaster in order to provide 
        technical and financial assistance under this section.
            ``(2) Estimated aggregate amount.--Not later than 180 days 
        after each major disaster declaration pursuant to this Act, the 
        estimated aggregate amount of grants for purposes of paragraph 
        (1) shall be determined by the President and such estimated 
        amount need not be reduced, increased, or changed due to 
        variations in estimates.
            ``(3) No reduction in amounts.--The amount set aside 
        pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not reduce the amounts 
        otherwise made available for sections 403, 404, 406, 407, 408, 
        410, and 416 under this Act.''; and
            (6) by striking subsections (j) and (m) and redesignating 
        subsections (k), (l), and (n) as subsections (j), (k), and (l), 
        respectively.
    (b) Applicability.--The amendments made to section 203 of the 
Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 
U.S.C. 5133) by paragraphs (3) and (5) of subsection (a) shall apply to 
funds appropriated after the date of enactment of this Act.

SEC. 636. ADDITIONAL MITIGATION ACTIVITIES.

    (a) Hazard Mitigation Clarification.--Section 404(a) of the Robert 
T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
5170c(a)) is amended by striking the first sentence and inserting the 
following: ``The President may contribute up to 75 percent of the cost 
of hazard mitigation measures which the President has determined are 
cost effective and which substantially reduce the risk of, or increase 
resilience to, future damage, hardship, loss, or suffering in any area 
affected by a major disaster.''.
    (b) Eligible Cost.--Section 406(e)(1)(A) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 
5172(e)(1)(A)) is amended--
            (1) in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting after 
        ``section,'' the following: ``for disasters declared on or 
        after August 1, 2017, or a disaster in which a cost estimate 
        has not yet been finalized for a project,'';
            (2) in clause (i), by striking ``and'';
            (3) in clause (ii)--
                    (A) by striking ``codes, specifications, and 
                standards'' and inserting ``the latest published 
                editions of relevant consensus-based codes, 
                specifications, and standards that incorporate the 
                latest hazard-resistant designs and establish minimum 
                acceptable criteria for the design, construction, and 
                maintenance of residential structures and facilities 
                that may be eligible for assistance under this Act for 
                the purposes of protecting the health, safety, and 
                general welfare of a facility's users against 
                disasters'';
                    (B) by striking ``applicable at the time at which 
                the disaster occurred''; and
                    (C) by striking the period at the end and inserting 
                ``; and''; and
            (4) by adding at the end the following:
                            ``(iii) in a manner that allows the 
                        facility to meet the definition of resilient 
                        developed pursuant to this subsection.''.
    (c) Other Eligible Cost.--Section 406(e)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 
5172(e)(1)) is further amended by inserting at the end the following:
                    ``(C) Contributions.--Contributions for the 
                eligible cost made under this section may be provided 
                on an actual cost basis or on cost-estimation 
                procedures.''.
    (d) New Rules.--Section 406(e) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 5172(e)) is 
further amended by adding at the end the following:
            ``(5) New rules.--
                    ``(A) In general.--Not later than 18 months after 
                the date of enactment of this paragraph, the President, 
                acting through the Administrator of the Federal 
                Emergency Management Agency, shall issue a final 
                rulemaking that defines the terms `resilient' and 
                `resiliency' for purposes of this subsection.
                    ``(B) Interim guidance.--Not later than 60 days 
                after the date of enactment of this paragraph, the 
                Administrator shall issue interim guidance to implement 
                this subsection. Such interim guidance shall expire 18 
                months after the date of enactment of this paragraph or 
                upon issuance of final regulations pursuant to 
                subparagraph (A), whichever occurs first.
                    ``(C) Guidance.--Not later than 90 days after the 
                date on which the Administrator issues the final 
                rulemaking under this paragraph, the Administrator 
                shall issue any necessary guidance related to the 
                rulemaking.
                    ``(D) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the 
                date of enactment of this paragraph, the Administrator 
                shall submit to Congress a report summarizing the 
                regulations and guidance issued pursuant to this 
                paragraph.''.
    (e) Conforming Amendment.--Section 205(d)(2) of the Disaster 
Mitigation Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-390) is amended by inserting 
``(B)'' after ``except that paragraph (1)''.

SEC. 637. ELIGIBILITY FOR CODE IMPLEMENTATION AND ENFORCEMENT.

    Section 402 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170a) is amended--
            (1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (4);
            (2) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (6); and
            (3) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:
            ``(5) provide assistance to State and local governments for 
        building code and floodplain management ordinance 
        administration and enforcement, including inspections for 
        substantial damage compliance.''.

SEC. 638. GAO REPORT ON LONG-TERM RECOVERY EFFORTS.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 240 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to Congress 
a report on long-term recovery efforts following Hurricane Andrew, the 
attacks of September 11, 2001, Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Ike, and 
Hurricane Sandy.
    (b) Content of Report.--The report shall contain the following:
            (1) Information on defining a long-term recovery, the 
        stages of a long-term recovery, and the transition from Federal 
        Government management of long-term recovery efforts to State 
        and local leadership.
            (2) An assessment of the personnel needed, and the types of 
        expertise or certifications required to accomplish the 
        administration and management of recovery efforts for each of 
        the disasters described in subsection (a).
            (3) An analysis of the success and efficiency of the long-
        term disaster recovery, and best practices learned that may be 
        applied to future long-term disaster recovery plans.
            (4) Recommendations of the Comptroller General for what 
        should be defined as a long-term disaster recovery project 
        using existing authority and responsibility of the Federal 
        Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to advise and make 
        recommendations to the President regarding Presidential 
        Disaster Declarations.
            (5) Recommendations of FEMA on the capacity and competence 
        of FEMA to manage multiple major Presidential Disaster 
        Declarations simultaneously of the magnitude of 3, 4, or all 5 
        of the disasters described in subsection (a) occurring within 
        weeks of each other.

SEC. 639. GUIDANCE AND TRAINING BY FEMA ON COORDINATION OF EMERGENCY 
              RESPONSE PLANS.

    (a) Training Requirement.--The Administrator of the Federal 
Emergency Management Agency shall provide guidance and training on an 
annual basis to State, local, and Tribal governments, first responders, 
and facilities that store hazardous materials on coordination of 
emergency response plans in the event of a major disaster or emergency, 
including severe weather events. The guidance and training shall 
include the following:
            (1) Providing a list of equipment required in the event a 
        hazardous substance is released into the environment.
            (2) Outlining the health risks associated with exposure to 
        hazardous substances to improve treatment response.
            (3) Publishing best practices for mitigating further danger 
        to communities from hazardous substances.
    (b) Implementation.--The requirement of subsection (a) shall be 
implemented not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this 
Act.

SEC. 640. REIMBURSEMENT.

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shall retroactively 
reimburse State and local units of government (for a period of 3 years 
after the declaration of a major disaster under section 401 of the 
Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 
U.S.C. 5170)) upon determination that a locally-implemented housing 
solution, implemented by State or local units of government, costs 50 
percent of comparable FEMA solution or whatever the locally-implemented 
solution costs, whichever is lower.

SEC. 641. FLOOD INSURANCE.

    Section 406(d)(1) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5172(d)(1)) is amended by adding at 
the end the following: ``This section shall not apply to more than one 
building of a multi-structure educational, law enforcement, 
correctional, fire, or medical campus, effective January 1, 2016.''.

SEC. 642. CERTAIN RECOUPMENT PROHIBITED.

    (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the 
Federal Emergency Management Agency shall deem any covered disaster 
assistance to have been properly procured, provided, and utilized, and 
shall restore any funding of covered disaster assistance previously 
provided but subsequently withdrawn or deobligated.
    (b) Covered Disaster Assistance Defined.--In this section, the term 
``covered disaster assistance'' means assistance--
            (1) provided to a local government pursuant to section 403, 
        406, or 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
        Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170b, 5172, or 5173); and
            (2) with respect to which, the Inspector General of the 
        Department of Homeland Security has determined, after an audit, 
        that--
                    (A) the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
                deployed to the local government a Technical Assistance 
                Contractor to review field operations, provide 
                eligibility advice, and assist with day-to-day 
                decisions;
                    (B) the Technical Assistance Contractor provided 
                inaccurate information to the local government; and
                    (C) the local government relied on the inaccurate 
                information to determine that relevant contracts were 
                eligible, reasonable, and reimbursable.

                       TITLE VII--FLIGHT R&D ACT

                     Subtitle A--General Provisions

SEC. 701. SHORT TITLE.

    This title may be cited as the ``FAA Leadership in Groundbreaking 
High-Tech Research and Development Act'' or the ``FLIGHT R&D Act''.

SEC. 702. DEFINITIONS.

    In this title, the following definitions apply:
            (1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
            (2) FAA.--The term ``FAA'' means the Federal Aviation 
        Administration.
            (3) NASA.--The term ``NASA'' means the National Aeronautics 
        and Space Administration.
            (4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
        of Transportation.

SEC. 703. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

    (a) Authorizations.--Section 48102(a) of title 49, United States 
Code, is amended--
            (1) in the matter before paragraph (1) by striking ``and, 
        for each of fiscal years 2012 through 2015, under subsection 
        (g)'';
            (2) at the end of paragraph (9), by striking ``and''; and
            (3) by striking paragraph (10) and inserting the following:
            ``(10) for fiscal year 2018, $181,000,000, including--
                    ``(A) $128,500,000 for Safety Research and 
                Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) Fire Research and Safety;
                            ``(ii) Propulsion and Fuel Systems;
                            ``(iii) Advanced Materials/Structural 
                        Safety;
                            ``(iv) Aircraft Icing/Digital System 
                        Safety;
                            ``(v) Continued Airworthiness;
                            ``(vi) Aircraft Catastrophic Failure 
                        Prevention Research;
                            ``(vii) Flightdeck/Maintenance/System 
                        Integration Human Factors;
                            ``(viii) System Safety Management;
                            ``(ix) Air Traffic Control/Technical 
                        Operations Human Factors;
                            ``(x) Aeromedical Research;
                            ``(xi) Weather Program;
                            ``(xii) Unmanned Aircraft Systems Research;
                            ``(xiii) NextGen-Alternative Fuels for 
                        General Aviation;
                            ``(xiv) Joint Planning and Development 
                        Office;
                            ``(xv) Ocean and Other Remote Locations ATS 
                        Research Program;
                            ``(xvi) Cybersecurity Research Program;
                            ``(xvii) Cybersecurity Threat Modeling 
                        Program;
                            ``(xviii) Single Piloted Commercial Cargo 
                        Aircraft Program; and
                            ``(xix) UAV-Manned Aircraft Collision 
                        Research Program;
                    ``(B) $26,000,000 for Economic Competitiveness 
                Research and Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) NextGen-Wake Turbulence;
                            ``(ii) NextGen-Air Ground Integration Human 
                        Factors;
                            ``(iii) Next Gen-Weather Technology in the 
                        Cockpit; and
                            ``(iv) Commercial Space Transportation 
                        Safety;
                    ``(C) $20,000,000 for Environmental Sustainability 
                Research and Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) Environment and Energy; and
                            ``(ii) NextGen-Environmental Research-
                        Aircraft Technologies, Fuels and Metrics; and
                    ``(D) $6,500,000 for Mission Support programs, 
                including--
                            ``(i) System Planning and Resource 
                        Management; and
                            ``(ii) William J. Hughes Technical Center 
                        Laboratory Facility;
            ``(11) for fiscal year 2019, $186,000,000, including--
                    ``(A) $131,000,000 for Safety Research and 
                Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) Fire Research and Safety;
                            ``(ii) Propulsion and Fuel Systems;
                            ``(iii) Advanced Materials/Structural 
                        Safety;
                            ``(iv) Aircraft Icing/Digital System 
                        Safety;
                            ``(v) Continued Airworthiness;
                            ``(vi) Aircraft Catastrophic Failure 
                        Prevention Research;
                            ``(vii) Flightdeck/Maintenance/System 
                        Integration Human Factors;
                            ``(viii) System Safety Management;
                            ``(ix) Air Traffic Control/Technical 
                        Operations Human Factors;
                            ``(x) Aeromedical Research;
                            ``(xi) Weather Program;
                            ``(xii) Unmanned Aircraft Systems Research;
                            ``(xiii) NextGen-Alternative Fuels for 
                        General Aviation;
                            ``(xiv) Joint Planning and Development 
                        Office;
                            ``(xv) Ocean and Other Remote Locations ATS 
                        Research Program;
                            ``(xvi) Cybersecurity Research Program;
                            ``(xvii) Cybersecurity Threat Modeling 
                        Program;
                            ``(xviii) Single Piloted Commercial Cargo 
                        Aircraft Program; and
                            ``(xix) UAV-Manned Aircraft Collision 
                        Research Program;
                    ``(B) $28,000,000 for Economic Competitiveness 
                Research and Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) NextGen-Wake Turbulence;
                            ``(ii) NextGen-Air Ground Integration Human 
                        Factors;
                            ``(iii) Next Gen-Weather Technology in the 
                        Cockpit; and
                            ``(iv) Commercial Space Transportation 
                        Safety;
                    ``(C) $20,000,000 for Environmental Sustainability 
                Research and Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) Environment and Energy; and
                            ``(ii) NextGen-Environmental Research-
                        Aircraft Technologies, Fuels and Metrics; and
                    ``(D) $7,000,000 for Mission Support programs, 
                including--
                            ``(i) System Planning and Resource 
                        Management; and
                            ``(ii) William J. Hughes Technical Center 
                        Laboratory Facility;
            ``(12) for fiscal year 2020, $190,000,000, including--
                    ``(A) $133,500,000 for Safety Research and 
                Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) Fire Research and Safety;
                            ``(ii) Propulsion and Fuel Systems;
                            ``(iii) Advanced Materials/Structural 
                        Safety;
                            ``(iv) Aircraft Icing/Digital System 
                        Safety;
                            ``(v) Continued Airworthiness;
                            ``(vi) Aircraft Catastrophic Failure 
                        Prevention Research;
                            ``(vii) Flightdeck/Maintenance/System 
                        Integration Human Factors;
                            ``(viii) System Safety Management;
                            ``(ix) Air Traffic Control/Technical 
                        Operations Human Factors;
                            ``(x) Aeromedical Research;
                            ``(xi) Weather Program;
                            ``(xii) Unmanned Aircraft Systems Research;
                            ``(xiii) NextGen-Alternative Fuels for 
                        General Aviation;
                            ``(xiv) Joint Planning and Development 
                        Office;
                            ``(xv) Ocean and Other Remote Locations ATS 
                        Research Program;
                            ``(xvi) Cybersecurity Research Program;
                            ``(xvii) Cybersecurity Threat Modeling 
                        Program;
                            ``(xviii) Single Piloted Commercial Cargo 
                        Aircraft Program; and
                            ``(xix) UAV-Manned Aircraft Collision 
                        Research Program;
                    ``(B) $29,000,000 for Economic Competitiveness 
                Research and Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) NextGen-Wake Turbulence;
                            ``(ii) NextGen-Air Ground Integration Human 
                        Factors;
                            ``(iii) Next Gen-Weather Technology in the 
                        Cockpit; and
                            ``(iv) Commercial Space Transportation 
                        Safety;
                    ``(C) $20,000,000 for Environmental Sustainability 
                Research and Development programs, including--
                            ``(i) Environment and Energy; and
                            ``(ii) NextGen-Environmental Research-
                        Aircraft Technologies, Fuels and Metrics; and
                    ``(D) $7,500,000 for Mission Support programs, 
                including--
                            ``(i) System Planning and Resource 
                        Management; and
                            ``(ii) William J. Hughes Technical Center 
                        Laboratory Facility;
            ``(13) for fiscal year 2021, $195,000,000;
            ``(14) for fiscal year 2022, $200,000,000; and
            ``(15) for fiscal year 2023, $204,000,000.''.
    (b) Annual Submission of the National Aviation Research Plan.--
Section 48102(g) of title 49, United States, Code, is amended to read 
as follows:
    ``(g) Annual Submission of the National Aviation Research Plan.--
Notwithstanding subsection (a), no funds are authorized to be 
appropriated for the Office of the Administrator for a fiscal year 
unless the Secretary has submitted the national aviation research plan 
to Congress no later than the date of submission of the President's 
budget request to Congress for that fiscal year, as required under 
section 44501(c).''.

         Subtitle B--FAA Research and Development Organization

SEC. 711. ASSOCIATE ADMINISTRATOR FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

    (a) Appointment.--Not later than 3 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall appoint an Associate 
Administrator for Research and Development.
    (b) Senior Executive Service.--The Associate Administrator for 
Research and Development shall be a Senior Executive Service position.
    (c) Responsibilities.--The Associate Administrator for Research and 
Development shall, at a minimum, be responsible for--
            (1) management and oversight of all the FAA's research and 
        development programs and activities; and
            (2) production of all congressional reports from the FAA 
        relevant to research and development, including the national 
        aviation research plan required under section 44501(c) of title 
        49, United States Code.
    (d) Dual Appointment.--The Associate Administrator for Research and 
Development may be a dual-appointment, holding the responsibilities of 
another Associate Administrator.

SEC. 712. RESEARCH ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

    (a) Advice and Recommendations.--Section 44508(a)(1)(A) of title 
49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
            ``(A) provide advice and recommendations to the 
        Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration and 
        Congress about needs, objectives, plans, approaches, content, 
        and accomplishments of all aviation research and development 
        activities and programs carried out, including those under 
        sections 40119, 44504, 44505, 44507, 44511-44513, and 44912 of 
        this title;''.
    (b) Written Reply to Research Advisory Committee.--Section 44508 of 
title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
    ``(f) Written Reply.--
            ``(1) In general.--Not later than 60 days after receiving 
        any recommendation from the research advisory committee, the 
        Administrator shall provide a written reply to the research 
        advisory committee that, at a minimum--
                    ``(A) clearly states whether the Administrator 
                accepts or rejects the recommendations;
                    ``(B) explains the rationale for the 
                Administrator's decision;
                    ``(C) sets forth the timeframe in which the 
                Administrator will implement the recommendation; and
                    ``(D) describes the steps the Administrator will 
                take to implement the recommendation.
            ``(2) Transparency.--The written reply to the research 
        advisory committee, when transmitted to the research advisory 
        committee, shall be--
                    ``(A) made publicly available on the research 
                advisory committee website; and
                    ``(B) transmitted to the Committee on Science, 
                Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives 
                and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                Transportation of the Senate.
            ``(3) National aviation research plan.--The national 
        aviation research plan required under section 44501(c) shall 
        include a summary of all research advisory committee 
        recommendations and a description of the status of their 
        implementation.''.

                 Subtitle C--Unmanned Aircraft Systems

SEC. 721. UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ROADMAP.

    No funds are authorized to be appropriated for the Office of the 
Administrator for a fiscal year unless the Secretary has submitted the 
unmanned aircraft systems roadmap to Congress on an annual basis as 
required under section 45502(a) of title 49, United States Code, (as 
added by this Act).

SEC. 722. PROBABILISTIC METRICS FOR EXEMPTIONS.

    (a) Study.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall commission an independent study to--
            (1) develop parameters to conduct research and development 
        for probabilistic metrics to enable the identification of 
        hazards and the assessment of risks as necessary to make 
        determinations under section 45505(a) of title 49, United 
        States Code, (as added by this Act) that certain unmanned 
        aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace 
        system;
            (2) identify additional research needed to more effectively 
        develop and use such metrics and make such determinations; and
            (3) in developing parameters for probabilistic metrics, 
        this study shall take into account the utility of performance 
        standards to make determinations under section 45505(a) of 
        title 49, United States Code, (as added by this Act).
    (b) Consideration of Results.--The Administrator shall consider the 
results of the study conducted under subsection (a) when making a 
determination described in subsection (a)(1).
    (c) Report.--Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall transmit the results of the study 
conducted under subsection (a) to the Committee on Science, Space, and 
Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.

SEC. 723. PROBABILISTIC ASSESSMENT OF RISKS.

    The Administrator shall conduct research and development to enable 
a probabilistic assessment of risks to inform requirements for 
standards for operational certification of public unmanned aircraft 
systems in the national airspace.

SEC. 724. UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE-MANNED AIRCRAFT COLLISION RESEARCH.

    (a) Research.--The Administrator shall coordinate with NASA to 
conduct comprehensive testing of unmanned aerial vehicles colliding 
with a manned aircraft, including--
            (1) collisions between unmanned aerial vehicles of various 
        sizes, traveling at various speeds, and commercial jet 
        airliners of various sizes, traveling at various speeds;
            (2) collisions between unmanned aerial vehicles of various 
        sizes, traveling at various speeds, and propeller planes of 
        various sizes, traveling at various speeds;
            (3) collisions between unmanned aerial vehicles of various 
        sizes, traveling at various speeds, and blimps of various 
        sizes, traveling at various speeds;
            (4) collisions between unmanned aerial vehicles of various 
        sizes, traveling at various speeds, and rotorcraft of various 
        sizes, traveling at various speeds; and
            (5) collisions between unmanned aerial vehicles and various 
        parts of the aforementioned aircraft, including--
                    (A) windshields;
                    (B) noses;
                    (C) engines;
                    (D) radomes;
                    (E) propellers; and
                    (F) wings.
    (b) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report summarizing the 
costs and results of research under this section to the Committee on 
Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.

SEC. 725. SPECIAL RULE FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

    Except as necessary to support enforcement action under applicable 
provisions of law against persons operating unmanned aircraft in a 
manner that endangers the safety of the national airspace system, 
notwithstanding any other provision of law relating to the 
incorporation of unmanned aircraft systems into FAA plans and policies, 
the Administrator may not promulgate any rule or regulation regarding 
the operation of an unmanned aircraft system--
            (1) that is flown strictly for research and development 
        use;
            (2) that is operated less than 400 feet above the ground 
        and in Class G airspace;
            (3) that is operated in a manner that does not interfere 
        with and gives way to any manned aircraft; and
            (4) when flown within 5 miles of an airport, the operator 
        of the aircraft provides the airport operator and the airport 
        air traffic control tower (when an air traffic facility is 
        located at the airport) with prior notice of the operation 
        (unmanned aircraft operators flying from a permanent location 
        within 5 miles of an airport should establish a mutually-agreed 
        upon operating procedure with the airport operator and the 
        airport air traffic control tower (when an air traffic facility 
        is located at the airport)).

SEC. 726. BEYOND LINE-OF-SIGHT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

    (a) Amendments.--Section 332(c)(2) the FAA Modernization and Reform 
Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note) is amended--
            (1) by striking ``Administrator shall'' and inserting 
        ``Administrator'';
            (2) at the beginning of each of subparagraphs (A) through 
        (F), by inserting ``shall'';
            (3) at the end of subparagraph (E), by striking ``and'';
            (4) at the end of subparagraph (F), by striking the period 
        and inserting a semicolon; and
            (5) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
                    ``(G) shall allow beyond line-of-sight operation of 
                unmanned aircraft systems to be flown within the 
                boundaries of a test range established under this 
                subsection;
                    ``(H) may promulgate regulations governing beyond 
                line-of-sight operation of unmanned aircraft systems 
                flown within the boundaries of a test range established 
                under this subsection for the purposes of public 
                safety; and
                    ``(I) shall allow NASA to authorize operation of 
                beyond line-of-sight unmanned aircraft systems within 
                the boundaries of any NASA center or facility.''.
    (b) Statutory Construction.--Nothing in the amendments made by 
subsection (a) shall be construed to limit the authority of the 
Administrator to pursue enforcement action under applicable provisions 
of law against persons operating unmanned aircraft in a manner that 
endangers the safety of the national airspace system.

                       Subtitle D--Cybersecurity

SEC. 731. CYBER TESTBED.

    Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Administrator shall develop an integrated Cyber Testbed for 
research, development, evaluation, and validation of air traffic 
control modernization programs or technologies, before they enter the 
national airspace system, as being compliant with FAA data security 
regulations. The Cyber Testbed shall be part of an integrated research 
and development test environment capable of creating, identifying, 
defending, and solving cybersecurity-related problems for the national 
airspace system. This integrated test environment shall incorporate 
integrated test capacities within the FAA related to the national 
airspace system and NextGen.

SEC. 732. CABIN COMMUNICATIONS, ENTERTAINMENT, AND INFORMATION 
              TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS CYBERSECURITY VULNERABILITIES.

    (a) Evaluation.--The Administrator shall evaluate and determine the 
research and development needs associated with cybersecurity 
vulnerabilities of cabin communications, entertainment, and information 
technology systems on civil passenger aircraft. This evaluation shall 
include research and development to address--
            (1) technical risks and vulnerabilities;
            (2) potential impacts on the national airspace and public 
        safety; and
            (3) identification of deficiencies in cabin-based 
        cybersecurity.
    (b) Assessment.--The Administrator shall--
            (1) conduct an assessment of opportunities to cooperate 
        with the private sector in conducting aircraft in-cabin 
        cybersecurity research and development; and
            (2) provide recommendations to improve research and 
        development on cabin-based cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report on the results of 
activities under this section to the Committee on Science, Space, and 
Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. This report may 
contain classified annexes.

SEC. 733. CYBERSECURITY THREAT MODELING.

    (a) Program.--
            (1) In general.--The Administrator shall consult the 
        National Institute of Standards and Technology to research and 
        develop an internal FAA cybersecurity threat modeling program 
        to detect cybersecurity vulnerabilities, track how those 
        vulnerabilities might be exploited, and assess the magnitude of 
        harm that could be caused by the exploitation of those 
        vulnerabilities.
            (2) Updates.--This program shall be updated regularly, not 
        less than once every 5 years.
    (b) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, and within 7 days of each threat modeling program update 
under subsection (a)(2), the Administrator shall transmit a report to 
the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation of the Senate detailing the status, results, and 
composition of the threat modeling program.

SEC. 734. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY CYBERSECURITY 
              STANDARDS.

    Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the FAA shall, in consultation with the National Institute of Standards 
and Technology, transmit to the Committee on Science, Space, and 
Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that 
includes--
            (1) a cybersecurity standards plan to implement National 
        Institute of Standards and Technology revisions to 
        cybersecurity guidance documents within timeframes set by the 
        Office of Management and Budget; and
            (2) an explanation of why any such recommendations are not 
        incorporated in the plan or are not incorporated within such 
        timeframes.

SEC. 735. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH COORDINATION.

    The Administrator shall, where feasible, cooperate on cybersecurity 
research and development with other international air traffic 
management organizations, including the European Aviation Safety 
Agency, the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority, Nav Canada, and 
Airservices Australia.

SEC. 736. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.

    (a) Establishment.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the FAA, in consultation with other agencies as 
appropriate, shall establish a research and development program to 
improve the cybersecurity of civil aircraft and the national airspace 
system.
    (b) Plan.--
            (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
        enactment of this Act, the FAA shall develop a plan for the 
        research and development program established under subsection 
        (a) that contains objectives, proposed tasks, milestones, and a 
        5-year budgetary profile.
            (2) National academies' study.--The Administrator shall--
                    (A) enter into an arrangement with the National 
                Academies for a study of the plan developed under 
                paragraph (1); and
                    (B) provide the results of that study to the 
                Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the 
                House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
                Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later 
                than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act.

          Subtitle E--FAA Research and Development Activities

SEC. 741. RESEARCH PLAN FOR THE CERTIFICATION OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES INTO 
              THE NATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM.

    Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Administrator, in consultation with NASA, shall transmit a 
comprehensive research plan for the certification of new technologies 
into the national airspace system to the Committee on Science, Space, 
and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. This plan shall 
identify research necessary to support the certification and 
implementation of NextGen, including both ground and air elements, and 
explain the plan's relationship to other activities and procedures 
required for certification and implementation of new technologies into 
the national airspace system. This plan shall be informed by and 
conform to the recommendations of the National Research Council report 
titled ``Transformation in the Air--A Review of the FAA Research 
Plan'', issued on June 8, 2015. This report shall include, at a 
minimum--
            (1) a description of the strategic and prescriptive value 
        of the research plan;
            (2) an explanation of the expected outcomes from executing 
        the plan;
            (3) an assessment of the FAA's plan to use research and 
        development to improve cybersecurity over the next 5 years, 
        taking into account the cybersecurity research and development 
        plan developed under section 736(b);
            (4) an assessment of the current software assurance 
        practices, and the desired level or attributes to target in the 
        software assurance program;
            (5) cost estimates, planned schedules, and performance 
        benchmarks, including specific tasks, milestones, and timelines 
        and including an identification of cost and schedule reserves, 
        for the certification of new technologies into the national 
        airspace system, including NextGen, Automatic Dependent 
        Surveillance-Broadcast, Data Communications, National Airspace 
        System Voice System, Collaborative Air Traffic Management 
        Technologies, NextGen Weather, and System Wide Information 
        Management;
            (6) methods for integrating emerging technologies 
        throughout NextGen's development, certification, and 
        implementation process; and
            (7) best practices in research and development used by 
        other organizations, such as NASA, NavCanada, and Eurocontrol.

SEC. 742. AVIATION FUEL RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND USAGE.

    The Administrator may conduct or supervise research, development, 
and service testing, currently being conducted under the Piston 
Aviation Fuels Initiative (PAFI) unleaded avgas program, that is 
required to allow the use of an unleaded aviation gasoline in existing 
aircraft as a replacement for leaded gasoline.

SEC. 743. AIR TRAFFIC SURVEILLANCE OVER OCEANS AND OTHER REMOTE 
              LOCATIONS.

    (a) Establishment of Program.--The Administrator, in consultation 
with NASA and other relevant agencies, shall establish a research and 
development program on civilian air traffic surveillance over oceans 
and other remote locations. Such program shall--
            (1) take into account the need for international 
        interoperability of technologies and air traffic control 
        systems; and
            (2) recognize that Automatic Dependent Surveillance-
        Broadcast (ADS-B) is an element of the Next Generation Air 
        Transportation System.
    (b) Pilot Program.--The Administrator shall establish a pilot 
program to test, evaluate, and certify for integration into the 
national airspace system air traffic surveillance equipment for oceans 
and other remote locations.
    (c) Partnership With Private Industry.--The Administrator shall 
partner with private industry on the research, development, testing, 
and evaluation under this section.
    (d) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report on activities 
under this section to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology 
of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
and Transportation of the Senate.

SEC. 744. SINGLE-PILOTED COMMERCIAL CARGO AIRCRAFT.

    (a) Program.--The FAA, in consultation with NASA and other relevant 
agencies, shall establish a research and development program in support 
of single-piloted cargo aircraft assisted with remote piloting and 
computer piloting.
    (b) Review.--The FAA, in consultation with NASA, shall conduct a 
review of FAA research and development activities in support of single-
piloted cargo aircraft assisted with remote piloting and computer 
piloting.
    (c) Report.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Administrator shall transmit a report to the Committee on 
Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the 
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate that 
describes--
            (1) the program established under subsection (a); and
            (2) the results of the review conducted under subsection 
        (b).

SEC. 745. ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

    The Administrator shall develop a program to research the use of 
spectrum in the civil aviation domain, including aircraft and unmanned 
aircraft systems. This research shall, at a minimum, address--
            (1) how, operating within an Unmanned Aircraft System 
        Traffic Management system, unmanned aircraft systems can safely 
        use, for control link, tracking, diagnostics, payload 
        communication, collaborative-collision avoidance (e.g. vehicle-
        to-vehicle communications), and other purposes--
                    (A) aviation-protected spectrum;
                    (B) commercial communications networks, such as 
                mobile communications networks; and
                    (C) any other licensed or unlicensed spectrum;
            (2) how the reallocation of spectrum assigned for use 
        within frequency bands adjacent to those allocated for 
        position, navigation, and timing may impact the safety of civil 
        aviation; and
            (3) measures to protect and mitigate against spectrum 
        interference in frequency bands used by the civil aviation 
        community to ensure public safety.

                TITLE VIII--AVIATION REVENUE PROVISIONS

SEC. 801. EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY FROM AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND.

    (a) In General.--Section 9502(d)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 
1986 is amended--
            (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking 
        ``October 1, 2018'' and inserting ``October 1, 2023''; and
            (2) in subparagraph (A) by striking the semicolon at the 
        end and inserting ``or the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018;''.
    (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 9502(e)(2) of such Code is 
amended by striking ``October 1, 2018'' and inserting ``October 1, 
2023''.

SEC. 802. EXTENSION OF TAXES FUNDING AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND.

    (a) Fuel Taxes.--Section 4081(d)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code 
of 1986 is amended by striking ``September 30, 2018'' and inserting 
``September 30, 2023''.
    (b) Ticket Taxes.--
            (1) Persons.--Section 4261(k)(1)(A)(ii) of such Code is 
        amended by striking ``September 30, 2018'' and inserting 
        ``September 30, 2023''.
            (2) Property.--Section 4271(d)(1)(A)(ii) of such Code is 
        amended by striking ``September 30, 2018'' and inserting 
        ``September 30, 2023''.
    (c) Fractional Ownership Programs.--
            (1) Fuel tax.--Section 4043(d) of such Code is amended by 
        striking ``September 30, 2021'' and inserting ``September 30, 
        2023''.
            (2) Treatment as noncommercial aviation.--Section 4083(b) 
        of such Code is amended by striking ``October 1, 2018'' and 
        inserting ``October 1, 2023''.
            (3) Exemption from ticket taxes.--Section 4261(j) of such 
        Code is amended by striking ``September 30, 2018'' and 
        inserting ``September 30, 2023''.

TITLE IX--PREPAREDNESS AND RISK MANAGEMENT FOR EXTREME WEATHER PATTERNS 
                 ASSURING RESILIENCE AND EFFECTIVENESS

SEC. 901. SHORT TITLE.

    This title may be cited as the ``Preparedness and Risk Management 
for Extreme Weather Patterns Assuring Resilience and Effectiveness Act 
of 2018'' or the ``PREPARE Act of 2018''.

SEC. 902. INTERAGENCY COUNCIL ON EXTREME WEATHER RESILIENCE, 
              PREPAREDNESS, AND RISK IDENTIFICATION AND MANAGEMENT.

    (a) Establishment.--There is hereby established a council to be 
known as the ``Interagency Council on Extreme Weather Resilience, 
Preparedness, and Risk Identification and Management''.
    (b) Membership.--The Interagency Council shall be composed of the 
following:
            (1) Senior officials, to be appointed by the President, 
        including representation from the following:
                    (A) The Council on Environmental Quality.
                    (B) The Office of Science and Technology Policy.
                    (C) The National Security Council.
                    (D) The Office of Management and Budget.
                    (E) The Department of Transportation.
                    (F) The Environmental Protection Agency.
                    (G) The National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
                Administration.
                    (H) The Department of Energy.
                    (I) The Department of Homeland Security.
                    (J) The Federal Emergency Management Agency.
                    (K) The Department of Defense.
                    (L) The National Aeronautics and Space 
                Administration.
                    (M) The Department of Agriculture.
                    (N) The Department of Housing and Urban 
                Development.
                    (O) The Department of Justice.
            (2) Senior officials, to be appointed by the President, who 
        have relevant policy expertise and policy responsibilities, 
        including in the following areas:
                    (A) Economic policy and risk analysis.
                    (B) Foreign affairs.
                    (C) Defense and intelligence.
                    (D) Homeland security.
                    (E) Energy.
                    (F) Environmental protection.
                    (G) Natural resources.
                    (H) Coasts, oceans, rivers, and floodplains.
                    (I) Agriculture.
                    (J) Health.
                    (K) Transportation and infrastructure.
                    (L) Housing.
                    (M) Education.
                    (N) Extreme weather data analysis or meteorological 
                science.
                    (O) Social science.
                    (P) Strategic planning.
                    (Q) Urban and land use planning.
                    (R) Other areas the President determines 
                appropriate.
    (c) Co-Chairpersons.--
            (1) In general.--The Interagency Council shall be co-
        chaired by the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland 
        Security and the Deputy Director of the Office of Management 
        and Budget. The President may appoint one or more additional 
        members as co-chairs, as appropriate.
            (2) Duties.--The co-chairpersons shall--
                    (A) oversee the Interagency Council's response to 
                the Government Accountability Office's recommendations 
                under subsection (f)(5);
                    (B) use the evaluation framework and performance 
                metrics developed pursuant to subsection (f)(6) to 
                evaluate agency progress in meeting the goals and 
                implementing the priorities described in subsection 
                (f)(1)(A); and
                    (C) work to ensure that sufficient resources are 
                available for agencies to--
                            (i) meet the goals and implement the 
                        priorities described in subsection (f)(1)(A); 
                        and
                            (ii) implement the recommendations 
                        developed under subsection (f)(2).
    (d) Administration.--The co-chairpersons of the Interagency Council 
(or staff designed by the co-chairpersons) shall provide administrative 
support and additional resources, as appropriate, to the Interagency 
Council to the extent permitted by law and within existing 
appropriations. The Interagency Council co-chairpersons shall determine 
the amount of funding and personnel necessary for the Interagency 
Council to carry out its duties and the amount of funding and personnel 
each agency represented on the Interagency Council should contribute in 
order for the Interagency Council to carry out such duties. Agencies 
shall, upon the request of the co-chairpersons of the Interagency 
Council, make available personnel, administrative support services, and 
information to the Interagency Council.
    (e) Structure.--
            (1) Steering committee.--The co-chairpersons of the 
        Interagency Council shall designate a subset of members of the 
        Interagency Council to serve on a steering committee. Such 
        steering committee shall assist the Interagency Council in 
        determining its priorities and its strategic direction.
            (2) Working groups.--The co-chairpersons of the Interagency 
        Council and its steering committee may establish working groups 
        as needed.
    (f) Duties of the Interagency Council.--
            (1) Goals and priorities.--
                    (A) In general.--The Interagency Council shall 
                establish Governmentwide goals and priorities for 
                extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
                identification and management. In establishing such 
                goals and priorities, the Interagency Council shall 
                consider the National Oil and Hazardous Substances 
                Pollution Contingency Plan, agency continuity of 
                operations plans, the National Preparedness Goal, the 
                National Preparedness Report, the National Global 
                Change Research Plan, the Mitigation Framework 
                Leadership Group's National Mitigation Investment 
                Strategy (if available), State and local mitigation 
                plans, and all relevant provisions of the Government 
                Accountability Office's High-Risk Series.
                    (B) Coordination.--In executing the duties pursuant 
                to this subsection, the Interagency Council shall 
                coordinate with other groups in the Federal Government 
                focused on extreme weather mitigation and recovery 
                (including the Mitigation Framework Leadership Group, 
                the Recovery Support Functions Leaders Group, and the 
                Emergency Support Functions Leaders Group), to avoid 
                duplication among Federal activities to the extent 
                practicable.
                    (C) Incorporation into agency activities.--In 
                carrying out subparagraph (A), the Interagency Council 
                shall, in order to ensure that information relating to 
                extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
                identification and management is incorporated into 
                everyday agency activities--
                            (i) work with agencies to assist such 
                        agencies in considering the goals and 
                        priorities described in subparagraph (A) in 
                        agency strategic, programmatic, and budget 
                        planning;
                            (ii) identify details to be included in 
                        agency extreme weather plans; and
                            (iii) work to identify and communicate 
                        localized extreme weather and natural hazard 
                        risk to the extent possible using the best 
                        available information regarding risk, and 
                        encourage the development of thorough, updated 
                        maps, models, and tools to measure and evaluate 
                        risk.
            (2) Priority interagency federal actions.--The Interagency 
        Council shall develop, recommend, coordinate, and track 
        implementation of priority interagency Federal Government 
        actions related to extreme weather resilience, preparedness, 
        and risk identification and management.
            (3) Support regional, state, and local actions.--The 
        Interagency Council shall support regional, State, and local 
        action to assess extreme weather-related vulnerabilities and 
        cost effectively increase extreme weather resilience, 
        preparedness, and risk identification and management of 
        communities, critical economic sectors, natural and built 
        infrastructure, and natural resources, including by--
                    (A) conducting inventories under section 906;
                    (B) convening meetings under section 907;
                    (C) providing guidance to agencies to produce tools 
                and products that enhance extreme weather resilience 
                planning, risk knowledge, and actions for use in all 
                levels of government, including guidance on how to 
                prioritize funding in order to produce such tools and 
                products; and
                    (D) reviewing State and local mitigation plans.
            (4) Meteorological and extreme weather science.--The 
        Interagency Council shall facilitate the integration of 
        meteorological and extreme weather science, in addition to 
        other scientific disciplines such as physical, natural, and 
        social science that the Council determines to be appropriate, 
        in the policies risk evaluation and communication, and planning 
        of agencies and the private sector, including by--
                    (A) promoting the development of innovative, 
                actionable, and accessible Federal extreme weather 
                resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
                management-related information, data, tools, and 
                examples of successful actions at appropriate scales 
                for decisionmakers; and
                    (B) providing such information, data, tools, and 
                examples to the agency or agencies designated under 
                section 904 to include on the website established and 
                maintained or designated pursuant to such section.
            (5) High-risk report recommendations.--The Interagency 
        Council shall assess the specific recommendations relating to 
        extreme weather in all relevant provisions of the Government 
        Accountability Office's High-Risk Series, identify the 
        feasibility of revising Federal programs to implement such 
        recommendations, and develop a plan to address such 
        recommendations when feasible that does not duplicate the 
        National Preparedness Goal.
            (6) Framework and performance metrics.--The Interagency 
        Council shall use existing and emerging science to develop or 
        adopt--
                    (A) a framework for evaluating the progress and 
                success of extreme weather resilience, preparedness, 
                and risk identification and management-related efforts 
                that is complementary to and not duplicative of any 
                local or national indicator system developed as part of 
                the National Preparedness Goal; and
                    (B) performance metrics that allow tracking of the 
                actions taken and progress made toward meeting the 
                goals and implementing the priorities described in 
                paragraph (1)(A).
            (7) Recommendations for the ceq and omb.--The Interagency 
        Council shall provide to the Council on Environmental Quality, 
        the Office of Management and Budget, and the Department of 
        Homeland Security recommendations on how agencies should--
                    (A) develop or update agency extreme weather plans;
                    (B) remove barriers to State and local extreme 
                weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
                identification and management, in agency regulations, 
                guidance, and policies; and
                    (C) avoid duplication among Federal activities to 
                the extent practicable.
            (8) Public input and comment.--The Interagency Council 
        shall solicit and incorporate public input and comment as 
        appropriate into the decisions of the Interagency Council.
            (9) Inventory and meetings.--The Interagency Council shall 
        conduct inventories under section 906 and convene meetings 
        under section 907.
            (10) Definition of extreme weather.--The Interagency 
        Council shall consider and may update, not less frequently than 
        every two years, in consultation with appropriate scientific 
        bodies, the definition of ``extreme weather'' and what other 
        weather events (in addition to those described in section 
        909(3)) qualify as extreme weather for purposes of this title. 
        The definition of ``extreme weather'' shall be published and 
        updated, as necessary, on the website of the Council and in the 
        Federal Register.
            (11) Other duties.--The Interagency Council shall carry out 
        any other duties the co-chairpersons of the Interagency Council 
        determine appropriate.
            (12) Public information.--The Interagency Council shall--
                    (A) make information available online--
                            (i) for tracking implementation of agency 
                        extreme weather plans and Governmentwide goals 
                        and priorities described in paragraph (1)(A);
                            (ii) on recommendations relating to extreme 
                        weather in all relevant provisions of the 
                        Government Accountability Office's High-Risk 
                        Series; and
                            (iii) on the results of the Council's 
                        efforts to identify nationwide and localized 
                        risks (including updated mapping efforts); and
                    (B) make such High-Risk Series and the reports 
                submitted under paragraph (13) available as the Council 
                determines appropriate.
            (13) Annual report.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
        of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter 
        (concurrently with the United States Global Change Research 
        Program Annual Report and the National Preparedness Report), 
        the Interagency Council shall submit to Congress, and make 
        available to the United States Global Change Research Program 
        and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a report that--
                    (A) describes how the goals and priorities 
                described in paragraph (1)(A) are being met and 
                implemented using--
                            (i) the performance metrics developed under 
                        paragraph (6)(B); and
                            (ii) information on--
                                    (I) agency expenditures, broken 
                                down by program activity level if 
                                practicable, that are directly related 
                                to extreme weather resilience, 
                                preparedness, and risk identification 
                                and management, including extreme 
                                weather resilience, preparedness, and 
                                risk identification and management of 
                                Federal facilities; and
                                    (II) the effectiveness of such 
                                expenditures, along with associated 
                                financial impacts and community, 
                                infrastructure, and environmental 
                                benefits, to the extent such data are 
                                available;
                    (B) provides recommendations to enhance the 
                effectiveness of such implementation and sets 
                benchmarks to meet;
                    (C) describes the progress of the regional 
                coordination efforts described in sections 906, 907, 
                and 908; and
                    (D) includes a summary of public comments solicited 
                under paragraph (8) and any action the Interagency 
                Council took to respond to such comments.
    (g) Consultation.--In carrying out paragraphs (2) through (12) of 
subsection (f), the Interagency Council shall consult with agencies, 
State and local governments, academic and research institutions, and 
the private and nonprofit sectors.
    (h) OMB Guidance.--The Director of the Office of Management and 
Budget, taking into consideration the recommendations provided by the 
Interagency Council under subsection (f)(7), shall issue guidance to 
agencies on--
            (1) developing agency extreme weather plans, which shall 
        incorporate existing agency reports, where appropriate, to 
        prevent duplication and reduce overlap; and
            (2) developing agency regulations, guidance, and policies 
        to remove barriers to State and local extreme weather 
        resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
        management.

SEC. 903. AGENCY PLANNING FOR EXTREME WEATHER-RELATED RISKS.

    (a) Agency Extreme Weather Resilience, Preparedness, and Risk 
Identification and Management Plans.--
            (1) Agency submission.--Not later than 1 year after the 
        date of the enactment of this Act, and every 2 years 
        thereafter, the head of each agency, in coordination with the 
        Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to avoid 
        duplication with the National Planning Frameworks, shall submit 
        to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and to 
        the Interagency Council a comprehensive plan that integrates 
        consideration of extreme weather into such agency's operations 
        and overall mission objectives (hereinafter referred to as an 
        ``agency extreme weather plan'').
            (2) Hearing.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the 
        enactment of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter, the 
        Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall convene 
        an interagency budget crosscut and policy hearing to review and 
        integrate all the agency extreme weather plans and to ensure 
        that such extreme weather plans and the activities of agencies 
        align with the goals and priorities established under section 
        902(f)(1)(A).
            (3) OMB submission.--The Director of the Office of 
        Management and Budget, upon receipt of all agency extreme 
        weather plans in a given year, shall consolidate and submit to 
        Congress such plans.
    (b) Inclusions.--Each agency extreme weather plan shall include--
            (1) identification and assessment of extreme weather-
        related impacts on, and risks to--
                    (A) the agency's ability to accomplish its 
                missions, operations, and programs over time periods to 
                be designated by the Interagency Council; and
                    (B) State and local entities;
            (2) identification and assessment of barriers posed by 
        Federal programs the agency administers to State and local 
        extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
        identification and management efforts;
            (3) a description of programs, policies, and plans the 
        agency has already put in place, as well as additional actions 
        the agency will take, to manage extreme weather risks in the 
        near term and build resilience in the short and long term;
            (4) a description of how the agency will consider the need 
        to improve extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
        identification and management, including the costs and benefits 
        of such improvement, with respect to agency suppliers, supply 
        chain, real property investments, and capital equipment 
        purchases, including by updating agency policies for leasing, 
        building upgrades, relocation of existing facilities and 
        equipment, and construction of new facilities;
            (5) a description of how the agency will support any 
        ongoing or future public-private partnership to improve extreme 
        weather resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
        management, including the cost and benefits of technology and 
        methodology improvements, hardening, or rapid restoration;
            (6) a description of how the agency will contribute to 
        coordinated interagency efforts to support extreme weather 
        resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
        management at all levels of government, including collaborative 
        work across agencies' regional offices and hubs, and through 
        coordinated development of information, data, and tools, 
        consistent with sections 906, 907, and 908; and
            (7) any other details identified by the Interagency Council 
        under section 902(f)(1)(B)(ii).

SEC. 904. WEBSITE.

    (a) In General.--The Interagency Council shall designate an agency 
or agencies to establish, maintain, or designate a website that 
provides timely, actionable, and accessible information, data, and 
tools on current and future risks related to extreme weather, 
preparedness, resilience, and risk identification and management, to 
support Federal, regional, State, local, private sector, and other 
decisionmakers.
    (b) Interagency Progress.--The website described under subsection 
(a), shall identify interagency progress, and propose the next 
interagency steps, towards responding to threats posed by extreme 
weather.
    (c) Best Practices.--The website described under subsection (a) 
shall provide best practices and examples from Federal, regional, 
State, and local decisionmakers in the public and private sectors about 
how to use extreme weather-related information in planning and 
decisionmaking.
    (d) Interagency Council Information and Tools.--The website 
described under subsection (a) shall include the information, data, 
tools, and examples provided by the Interagency Council pursuant to 
section 902(f)(4).
    (e) Best Available Meteorological Science.--The website described 
under subsection (a) shall identify best available meteorological 
science relating to extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
identification and management.
    (f) Public Outreach and Education.--The Interagency Council shall 
designate one or more agencies to conduct outreach and educational 
activities to inform the public and regional, State, and local 
decisionmakers about the tools and information available on the website 
described under subsection (a).

SEC. 905. PROVIDING ADEQUATE RESOURCES AND SUPPORT.

    The Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall ensure 
that each agency provides adequate resources to the Interagency 
Council, including administrative services and personnel support, as 
appropriate--
            (1) for the website described under section 904; and
            (2) to otherwise carry out this title.

SEC. 906. INVENTORY.

    (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the 
enactment of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter, the Interagency 
Council, or a working group of such Interagency Council established by 
the co-chairpersons thereof, shall conduct and publish an inventory of 
all regional offices, centers, and programs of agencies that are 
assisting with extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
identification and management efforts at the State or local level, 
including--
            (1) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's 
        regional programs;
            (2) the Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife 
        Service Landscape Conservation Cooperatives;
            (3) the United States Geological Survey's Climate Science 
        Centers;
            (4) the Department of Agriculture's Climate Hubs;
            (5) the regional offices of--
                    (A) the Environmental Protection Agency;
                    (B) the Federal Emergency Management Agency;
                    (C) the Department of Transportation; and
                    (D) the Forest Service;
            (6) the division offices of the Army Corps of Engineers; 
        and
            (7) such other offices, centers, and programs or other 
        agency efforts as determined appropriate by the Interagency 
        Council.
    (b) Assistance Described.--An inventory conducted and published 
under subsection (a) shall include a description of the assistance each 
agency office, center, or program is providing to assist with extreme 
weather resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
management efforts at the State or local level.

SEC. 907. MEETINGS.

    Not later than 6 months after the publication of each inventory 
under section 906, the Interagency Council shall convene a meeting of 
representatives of the offices, centers, and programs included in such 
inventory and invite other local and regional stakeholders to 
participate and develop plans to coordinate the efforts of such 
offices, centers, and programs and facilitate efficient services to 
stakeholders. At such meetings, such representatives shall--
            (1) share information regarding their office, center, or 
        program's extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
        identification and management efforts;
            (2) identify opportunities for collaboration and 
        coordination of research agendas, extreme weather assessment 
        activities, vulnerability assessments, data collection and 
        analysis, and planning and implementing extreme weather 
        resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
        management projects;
            (3) identify extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and 
        risk identification and management information needs, research 
        gaps, and decision support needs that are not met by any of the 
        offices, centers, or programs included in the inventory under 
        section 906 and make available such identification for purposes 
        of information to be submitted to the Interagency Council under 
        section 907;
            (4) identify common and complementary goals for extreme 
        weather resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
        management within each region to be prioritized for the coming 
        year and beyond;
            (5) identify barriers to regional extreme weather 
        resilience, preparedness, and risk identification and 
        management planning and implementation that can be overcome or 
        minimized through Federal action and specific suggestions for 
        improvement;
            (6) evaluate progress and jointly develop a strategy for 
        realizing extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
        identification and management-related goals, including clearly 
        identified responsibilities by each collaborating regional 
        office, center, or program; and
            (7) share experiences and best practices in stakeholder 
        engagement and communication, decision support, and science-
        practice interactions that support the realization of 
        identified extreme weather resilience, preparedness, and risk 
        identification and management goals.

SEC. 908. PROGRESS UPDATES.

    Not later than 90 days after each meeting under section 907, each 
agency that participates in such meeting shall submit to the 
Interagency Council, and make available to the United States Global 
Change Research Program and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, 
information describing progress in regional coordination and 
collaboration in aligning Federal resilience, preparedness, and risk 
identification and management efforts at the State and local level, and 
the benefits of such regional coordination and collaboration.

SEC. 909. DEFINITIONS.

    In this title:
            (1) Agency.--The term ``agency'' has the meaning given the 
        term ``Executive agency'' under section 105 of title 5, but 
        does not include the Government Accountability Office.
            (2) Agency extreme weather plan.--The term ``agency extreme 
        weather plan'' means a plan required under section 903(a).
            (3) Extreme weather.--The term ``extreme weather'' includes 
        observed or anticipated severe and unseasonable atmospheric 
        conditions, including drought, wildfire, heavy precipitation, 
        wave, high water, snowstorm, landslide, mudslide, hurricanes, 
        tornadoes and other windstorms (including derechos), extreme 
        heat, extreme cold, sustained temperatures or precipitation 
        that deviate from historical averages, and any other weather 
        event that the Interagency Council determines qualifies as 
        extreme weather pursuant to section 902(f)(10).
            (4) Interagency council.--The term ``Interagency Council'' 
        means the Interagency Council on Extreme Weather Resilience, 
        Preparedness, and Risk Identification and Management 
        established under section 902(a).
            (5) Mitigation plan.--The term ``mitigation plan'' means 
        the mitigation plan required under section 322 of the Robert T. 
        Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 
        U.S.C. 5165).
            (6) National global change research plan.--The term 
        ``National Global Change Research Plan'' means the National 
        Global Change Research Plan developed under section 104 of the 
        Global Change Research Act of 1990 (15 U.S.C. 2934), or any 
        revision thereof.
            (7) National oil and hazardous substances pollution 
        contingency plan.--The term ``National Oil and Hazardous 
        Substances Pollution Contingency Plan'' means the National Oil 
        and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan described 
        under part 300 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, or any 
        revision thereof.
            (8) National preparedness goal.--The term ``National 
        Preparedness Goal'' means the national preparedness goal 
        developed under section 643 of the Post-Katrina Emergency 
        Management Reform Act of 2006 (6 U.S.C. 743).
            (9) National preparedness report.--The term ``National 
        Preparedness Report'' means the report required by section 
        652(a) of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 
        2006 (6 U.S.C. 752(a); Public Law 109-295).
            (10) Preparedness.--The term ``preparedness'' means actions 
        taken to plan, organize, equip, train, and exercise to build, 
        apply, and sustain the capabilities necessary to prevent, 
        protect against, ameliorate the effects of, respond to, and 
        recover from extreme weather related damages to life, health, 
        property, livelihoods, ecosystems, and national security.
            (11) Resilience.--The term ``resilience'' means the ability 
        to anticipate, prepare for, and adapt to changing conditions 
        and withstand, respond to, and recover rapidly from 
        disruptions.
            (12) Senior official.--The term ``senior official'' means a 
        Deputy Secretary (or an equivalent officer) of an agency.
            (13) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several 
        States, the District of Columbia, each commonwealth, territory, 
        or possession of the United States, and each federally 
        recognized Indian Tribe.
            (14) United states global change research program.--The 
        term ``United States Global Change Research Program'' means the 
        United States Global Change Research Program established under 
        section 103 of the Global Change Research Act of 1990 (15 
        U.S.C. 2933).
            (15) United states global change research program annual 
        report.--The term ``United States Global Change Research 
        Program Annual Report'' means the report required by section 
        102(e)(7) of the Global Change Research Act of 1990 (15 U.S.C. 
        2932(e)(7)).

SEC. 910. REQUIREMENT TO INCLUDE AGENCY EXTREME WEATHER PLAN IN AGENCY 
              PERFORMANCE PLAN.

    A description of the most recent agency extreme weather plan, as 
required under section 903, shall be included in the performance plan 
of an agency (as defined in section 909) required pursuant to section 
1115(b) of title 31, United States Code.

SEC. 911. SUNSET AND REPEAL.

    This title ceases to be effective and is repealed on the date that 
is 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.

            Passed the House of Representatives April 27, 2018.

            Attest:

                                                 KAREN L. HAAS,

                                                                 Clerk.
                                                       Calendar No. 401

115th CONGRESS

  2d Session

                                H. R. 4

_______________________________________________________________________

                                 AN ACT

To reauthorize programs of the Federal Aviation Administration, and for 
                            other purposes.

_______________________________________________________________________

                              May 8, 2018

            Read the second time and placed on the calendar