The House agreed to extend the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) authority for one week on Wednesday. This temporary extension was put forward because the Senate is having difficulty deciding on a five-year reauthorization bill before the Friday deadline.
The House passed the bill with a vote of 385-24-1, and it has been sent to the Senate for their consideration. The new deadline for reauthorization is May 17.
On Wednesday, House GOP leadership organized a sudden vote on this measure as it became clear that the Senate was not close to making a decision on the five-year reauthorization before Friday night.
For several days, Senate negotiators have been unable to agree on which amendments should be voted on as part of the FAA reauthorization. This bill is the last crucial measure until the fall, so lawmakers are trying to include their priorities in the bill, whether they are related to aviation and travel or not.
Leadership has concerns about scheduling votes on some non-related amendments, which would lead to objections from others if their amendments are not included. Among the requested votes are Sen. Josh Hawley’s (R-Mo.) proposal to extend federal benefits for victims of nuclear radiation and the Kids Online Safety Act.
Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) said on Wednesday that there had been no progress in discussions about the non-related amendments, but the short-term extension will allow senators to continue working towards an agreement.
He stated, “It just gives us a little breathing room. I think the goal has been to try and drive through and get a resolution out of the Senate yet this week, but at least now, if necessary, you know, it can be punted.”
Al Weaver contributed.
