FAA Reauthorization Bill passed with major improvements for workers

Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the recent FAA Reauthorization bill that was passed by Congress. He also discussed the TTD’s annual Executive Committee meeting and what the transportation industry can do to improve worker safety measures globally.

The FAA reauthorization was recently passed by Congress. Regan discussed what it took to get the bill passed, which he said was a simpler process than the three reauthoriazation bill approval cycles he’s been through before. He said this bill is a good win for labor given the current state of Congress, and major improvements were achieved for workers. Regan explained how the changes to the way FAA hires air traffic controllers could improve the shortage of air traffic controllers.

On May 16, about 30 labor leaders joined Regan at the TTD’s annual Executive Committee meeting. At this meeting, the leaders addressed several issues and policies they hope to work with legislators to pass. Part of the conversation focused on ways the transportation industry can adapt to assist members without replacing them. Another focus point for the TTD is to have the federal government pass legislation that would ensure workers are protected from extreme temperatures, and Regan discussed what these types of policies might do for workers in the United States.

Following the tragic events at the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, the transportation industry is attempting to find a way to ensure proper safety measures are in place for workers globally. Regan talked about how the United States could use its strength from being the largest goods transporter in the world to create change. Ensuring there is an increase in the safety standards for foreign operators will ensure America’s waterways are a safe space for transportation, Regan said. It won’t be an easy task, he said, but there is a path to improve the safety on America’s waterways. 

To hear more from Regan, please listen to the show above.