Little Apple Times

U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) recently addressed the U.S. House of Representatives, advocating for his priorities in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act. The vote on this act is scheduled to take place tomorrow.

“After agriculture, aviation has the second largest impact on my state's economy,” Rep. Mann stated. “Over the past year I've advocated for an FAA Reauthorization that is cost-effective and invests in programs that are crucial to the aviation industry in Kansas and across the country. Most importantly, I've advocated for us to reauthorize an aviation bill that prioritizes the safety of the aviation industry. In order for the aviation industry to thrive we need an FAA that adopts long-overdue policy changes and regulatory requirements. America has been and should continue to be the Gold Standard of aviation.”

Rep. Mann's priorities include addressing increased global competition, rapid developments in technology, and workforce shortages in the aviation industry. He continues to champion Essential Air Service (EAS) airports in the Big First, which rural communities depend on for connectivity with larger communities and other parts of the country.

In June 2023, Rep. Mann voted to pass the FAA reauthorization bill titled 'Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act' out of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He also supported this bill on the House Floor in July 2023.

Representing Kansas' Big First District - part of what is known as 'the Air Capital of the World' - Rep. Mann highlights that after agriculture, aviation has a significant impact on Kansas’ economy, generating over 91,000 jobs within the state. The Big First district hosts seven commercial airports, six public-use airports, and five essential air service communities.

In his Commitment to the Big First manifesto, Rep. Mann asserts his belief that Kansans deserve an economy where innovation can flourish without excessive federal government red tape.