Keep America Flying Act of 2026
Keep America Flying Act of 2026
Plain Language Summary
# Keep America Flying Act of 2026 — Summary **What It Does:** This bill would ensure that air traffic controllers, FAA safety personnel, and TSA airport security screeners continue to be paid during a government shutdown. It would also cover contractor payments that support these workers. The funding would remain in place until Congress passes a full budget for the fiscal year or until the shutdown ends, whichever comes first. **Who It Affects:** The bill directly impacts thousands of federal employees—specifically air traffic controllers who manage airplane traffic, FAA workers essential to flight safety, and TSA agents who screen passengers and baggage at airports.
It also affects contractors who support these operations and ultimately affects travelers and the aviation industry. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) in the 119th Congress and is currently in the introduced stage, meaning it has not yet been voted on or moved through committee. It represents one approach lawmakers might take to prevent aviation disruptions during budget disputes.
CRS Official Summary
Keep America Flying Act of 2026This bill provides continuing appropriations to pay air traffic controllers, other essential Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees, and certain Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees during the period in which interim or full-year appropriations for FY2026 are not in effect (i.e., the government shutdown).Specifically, the bill provides FY2026 continuing appropriations to pay and provide benefits toair traffic controllers and other FAA essential operational personnel whose services are required for the safe and orderly operation of the national airspace system; andTSA employees engaged in screening operations, aviation security duties, or related mission-support functions necessary to carry out security screening.The bill also provides appropriations for payments to FAA and TSA contractors who are providing support to these employees.The bill provides the continuing appropriations until the earlier of (1) the enactment into law of specified appropriations legislation, or (2) September 30, 2026. The bill must take effect as if it had been enacted on September 30, 2025.
Latest Action
Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 205.