S 3257
Passed a chamber
Requires the FAA to update its pilot and air traffic controller medical rules so people are encouraged to seek mental health care and disclose conditions without fear of losing their certification.
Official title: John A. Hauser Mental Health in Aviation Act
Timeline each lane is a chamber; dates pull from congress.gov actions
House
Received
01-OCT-2026
Senate
Introduced
20-NOV-2025
Referred
20-NOV-2025
Approved by committee
14-APR-2026
Reported
14-SEP-2026
On the calendar
14-SEP-2026
Passed
24-SEP-2026
- Requires the FAA Administrator to update regulations and guidance within 18 months to encourage aviation workers to seek mental health help and disclose conditions.
- Directs the FAA to review the mental health special issuance process annually for two years and then every three years, including adding medications and training for aviation medical examiners.
- Authorizes up to $15,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2028 to hire and train aviation medical examiners and reduce the special issuance backlog.
- Requires a public information campaign from fiscal years 2026 through 2028 to reduce stigma around seeking mental health care in aviation.
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CRS is the Library of Congress's nonpartisan research office. Check on congress.govTransportation and Public Works
■ 19 D■ 14 R
19 Democrats
14 Republicans