EAA spearheaded enforcement language initiatives for the new legislation
EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wisconsin — (June 30, 2014) — The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is applauding U.S. Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK) for introducing the “Pilot’s Bill of Rights 2,” which would further protect and promote general aviation activities in the U.S.
Sen. Inhofe, a longtime aviator and EAA member, unveiled draft legislation today (June 30) to build on the foundation established in 2012 when his initial “Pilot’s Bill of Rights” was signed into law. The new proposal would specifically address such issues as pilot medical certification reform, unannounced searches of private aircraft by federal authorities, simplified processes for certifying and installing safety-enhancing equipment on general aviation aircraft, and numerous protections and due process improvements for pilots, aircraft owners and other FAA certificate holders who find themselves subject to an FAA enforcement action. Sen. Inhofe is releasing his draft bill for review and comment by the aviation community prior to introducing a final bill after the summer recess.
“The Pilot’s Bill of Rights 2 will continue and expand on the improvements that were accomplished just two years ago with the original Pilot’s Bill of Rights,” Sen. Inhofe said. “Input from the aviation community is essential to addressing the needs of aviators and industry alike. I look forward to working closely with stakeholders to develop a final product and ensure this vital piece of legislation makes necessary reforms, cuts red tape and is signed into law.”
EAA was a leading GA organization that helped Sen. Inhofe and his staff identify key issues to be addressed in the new bill, and refine legal language and interpretations in the legislation. Many of the provisions came directly from EAA-member feedback and the hard work of EAA’s Legal Advisory Council, whose expertise in FAA enforcement proceedings led to many of the proposed reforms to the enforcement process.
“This legislation would further enhance the pilot and general aviation reforms in the first Pilot’s Bill of Rights, designed to support and grow the ability for people to participate in flying,” said Jack Pelton, EAA chairman of the board. “We are pleased to have worked with Sen. Inhofe and his staff to identify several key issues that are addressed within this bill, which would ease burdens on average Americans who participate in flying.”
Sen. Inhofe will host an update briefing on the proposed legislation during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2014. That briefing will be held at 10 a.m. (CDT) on Saturday, August 2, at Forum Pavilion 1 on the AirVenture grounds.
EAA will continue to serve as a resource for legislators and policymakers on all levels, as the diverse flying experiences of EAA members provide unique perspectives on the many types of flying within the general aviation community.
