Expanding Regional Airports Act

# Expanding Regional Airports Act – Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do** If passed, HR 3085 would create a new federal grant program to help smaller regional airports improve their facilities and operations. The Department of Transportation would award 3 to 10 grants each year to eligible airports, with funding available for projects like expanding runways, building hangars, upgrading passenger screening areas, and improving terminal facilities. The grants could also help airports cover costs related to meeting safety and security standards. **Who It Affects** This bill targets general aviation airports and smaller commercial airports (not major hub airports like those in large cities) that serve communities with populations of at least 75,000 people.

The funding would benefit these regional airports, the airlines operating from them, and the communities they serve by potentially improving air service access and capacity. **Current Status** HR 3085 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez, a Democrat from New Mexico.