Legislative Affairs
ADF maintains an active presence on Capitol Hill, working with members of Congress and their staff to advance legislation that protects dispatcher interests and enhances aviation safety. Our legislative team monitors bills, provides expert testimony, and mobilizes grassroots support.
Priority Legislation – 118th Congress
H.R. 3485 – Aircraft Dispatcher Recognition Act
Status: In Committee – House Transportation & Infrastructure
Sponsor: Rep. Sarah Johnson (D-CA)
Cosponsors: 45 (28D, 17R)
Summary: This bill would formally recognize aircraft dispatchers as aviation safety professionals and extend crew member protections to certificated dispatchers. It includes provisions for fatigue management, security credentials, and whistleblower protections.
S. 2156 – Aviation Workforce Development Act
Status: Passed Senate, Awaiting House Action
Sponsor: Sen. Michael Roberts (R-TX)
Cosponsors: 67 (32D, 35R)
Summary: Comprehensive workforce development legislation that includes funding for dispatcher training programs, scholarships for underrepresented groups, and grants for schools to modernize dispatcher training equipment.
How We Advocate
Direct Engagement
- Regular meetings with key committee members
- Expert testimony at hearings
- Technical assistance to congressional staff
- Coalition building with aviation stakeholders
Grassroots Mobilization
- Action alerts to members
- Capitol Hill fly-ins
- Letter-writing campaigns
- District office visits
Strategic Communications
- Media outreach on key issues
- Op-eds and letters to editors
- Social media campaigns
- Educational briefings
Make Your Voice Heard
Congress needs to hear from real dispatchers about the issues that matter to our profession.