House Transportation/Infrastructure Committee Leadership Established

Congratulations to Rep. Sam Graves (R-Missouri), a longtime EAA and Warbirds of America member, who has been named to chair the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Washington) who was elected to serve as ranking member. The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has jurisdiction over all modes of transportation: aviation, maritime and waterborne transportation, highways, bridges, mass transit, and railroads. The committee also has jurisdiction over other aspects of our national infrastructure, such as airports.

Rep. Graves, EAA 619761, Warbirds 554648, has long participated at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. In addition, he hosts an annual fly-in at Tarkio, Missouri, each summer that brings together aviation enthusiasts, GA organization leaders, and congressional representatives in an informal way to enjoy recreational aviation.

“One of my highest priorities is a bipartisan, long-term reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration and aviation programs,” Graves said. “As a professional pilot, I know firsthand just how important a strong U.S. aviation system is in connecting our large, small, and rural communities to each other and the rest of the world. Aviation is a major sector of our economy, and we must ensure our Nation remains the world’s gold standard in safety and at the forefront of incorporating new technologies into the system.”

In December, Rep. Larsen was named as ranking member of the committee. Rep. Larsen also has considerable experience on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and has participated in bipartisan activities in support of aviation. Larsen becomes the first member of Congress from Washington state to be elected as a party’s leader on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Larsen has served on the committee since arriving in the House in 2001 and as the top Democrat on the Aviation Subcommittee since 2013.

“Congratulations to Representative Graves on his selection to chair this important House committee,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Having an aviator lead this committee is an important element as important matters such as FAA reauthorization are considered in this Congress. Sam’s flying experience and knowledge of the importance of our aviation system is invaluable. Also, congratulations to Representative Larsen on becoming ranking member of the committee, as he is also well aware of the requirements to maintain a safe and vibrant aviation infrastructure for all involved.”