Transportation safety and infrastructure development were the main topics at a recent budget hearing with Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy. The meeting was led by Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack and Committee Chairman Tom Cole.
Chairman Womack highlighted the DOT's request for $26.7 billion in discretionary budget authority for Fiscal Year 2026. This includes increased funding for air traffic modernization, port infrastructure, freight rail safety, and multimodal freight expansion. "Safety will remain a top priority for this subcommittee as we prepare our 2026 bill," said Womack. He acknowledged Secretary Duffy's efforts following a collision at Washington National Airport (DCA), which prompted swift action to enhance airspace safety.
Chairman Cole emphasized the need for effective investments in transportation systems during the FY26 process. He noted that Secretary Duffy’s team is focused on directing funds toward meaningful infrastructure and safety improvements while scrutinizing previous funding decisions. "This fiscal discipline will not come at the price of safety," stated Cole.
Secretary Duffy pointed out that the DOT is among few non-defense agencies receiving increased funding under the President’s Budget for FY26. He stressed that taxpayer resources are being carefully allocated to essential projects aimed at long-term benefits: "We do not take additional funds from hard-working taxpayers for granted."
The proceedings underscored plans to revitalize America's infrastructure with a focus on aviation safety through hiring new air traffic controllers, modernizing facilities, and deploying advanced radar technologies. Tim and Sheri Lilley attended the hearing; they advocate for aviation safety after their son Sam Lilley died in an air collision at DCA.
