If enacted, SB1046 would temporarily alter how funding is distributed to small airports, acknowledging the significant decline in passenger traffic during the pandemic. Proponents argue that this change will provide much-needed financial relief to smaller airports that might otherwise be at risk of significant operational difficulties or closure due to inadequate federal support. By basing apportionments on pre-pandemic figures, supporters believe that the bill will help restore proper funding levels for small airports that play critical roles in regional transportation networks.
Summary
SB1046, known as the Small Airport Regulation Relief Act of 2023, seeks to amend title 49 of the United States Code regarding the apportionment of funds for small airports under the Airport Improvement Program. The bill specifically proposes a temporary adjustment in funding distribution, allowing the Secretary of Transportation to allocate funds based on the highest number of passenger boardings recorded in the years 2019, 2020, or 2021 for airports that had fewer than 10,000 passenger boardings in the year used for calculation. This is intended to support small airports facing financial challenges, particularly in the wake of disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB1046 may include concerns about the long-term sustainability of funding for small airports versus larger ones. Critics may argue that focusing funding on historical passenger numbers does not account for the current operational realities and could disadvantage airports that are recovering at a slower pace. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding equitable distribution of federal funds, as airports in different regions may have varying operational needs and passenger profiles that are not fully captured by the historical data proposed in the bill.
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