Today, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development met to review its Fiscal Year 2026 bill. The subcommittee approved the measure during the session held in Washington, D.C.
Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack commented on the bill's focus: "The bill prioritizes transportation safety — on our railways, roads and airways — and ensures a responsible safety net with housing support for our most vulnerable citizens, especially the elderly, the disabled, veterans, and the working poor. We have eliminated or reduced 38 programs, totaling $7.3 billion in savings." He also noted that over $4 billion would be redirected from programs funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to real infrastructure projects such as air traffic control, highways, maritime activities, and rail.
Womack highlighted that "transportation safety remains our highest priority for DOT," with a significant increase in funding for FAA facilities and equipment: "$5 billion for FAA facilities and equipment," representing nearly $2 billion more than FY25. This investment is intended to maintain America's global leadership in aviation by updating technology and improving facilities.
Chairman Tom Cole expressed his views on the bill's objectives: "Today’s Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development measure is about building stronger, traveling safer, and supporting American communities." He emphasized that it responsibly funds critical transportation needs while protecting taxpayer dollars. Cole mentioned targeted investments in surface infrastructure with an increase to Highway Trust Fund programs aimed at benefiting both travelers and freight haulers through improved systems.
Cole also spoke about enhanced resources allocated for FAA facilities which will help modernize air traffic control systems: "Enhanced resources for FAA facilities and equipment will modernize air traffic control," alongside hiring new controllers. The bill promotes innovation in aircraft certification processes as well as drone integration efforts along with automated vehicle development initiatives.
