Commercial Cabins for Cabinet Members Act This bill prohibits the Department of Transportation from using charter air transportation until Congress enacts a law that authorizes appropriations to carry out activities of the Federal Aviation Administration for FY2024.
Impact
The passage of HB 296 would have implications for how cabinet members and the Department of Transportation approach travel logistics, particularly in situations requiring quick access via air transportation. By tying the use of charter flights to the approval of appropriations for the FAA, the bill aims to create a mechanism of oversight that may limit extravagant or unapproved expenditures related to government travel. This restriction has the potential to reduce accidental or unnecessary costs, adhering to fiscal discipline expectations.
Summary
House Bill 296, titled the 'Commercial Cabins for Cabinet Members Act', aims to create a restriction on the use of charter air transportation by the Secretary of Transportation. Specifically, the bill prohibits the Secretary from utilizing such services until Congress enacts legislation that provides appropriations to support the activities of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the fiscal year 2024. The intent is to ensure that government expenditures on travel are appropriately authorized and justified, aligning with broader fiscal accountability measures.
Contention
While the intent of the bill may be viewed positively in terms of promoting governmental accountability, there may be debates regarding its practicality and potential impact on operational efficiency. Some may argue that restricting charter air travel could hinder the timely execution of officials' duties, particularly in emergency or urgent scenarios. Additionally, there may be opposing views regarding the balance between cost-saving measures and the operational requirements of government officials to perform their roles effectively, especially if standard commercial flights do not meet their needs.
This bill prohibits the Federal Aviation Administration from setting a requirement that air carriers and foreign air carriers must require a passenger to test negative for COVID-19 to travel domestically on such carriers.
To direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to appoint an Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety Technology, and for other purposes.
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Ban Congressmen Lobbyists Act This bill prohibits Members of Congress from lobbying Congress or federal agencies at any point after leaving office. Currently, Senators are prohibited from lobbying Congress for two years after leaving office. Members of the House of Representatives are prohibited from lobbying Congress for one year after leaving office. The bill applies to any person who is a Member of Congress during the 118th Congress or any succeeding Congress.
No Budget, No Pay Act This bill prohibits Members of Congress from being paid in a fiscal year until both chambers approve the budget resolution and pass all regular appropriations bills for that fiscal year. Retroactive pay is prohibited for such a period.
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