49 U.S.C. § 60117 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 601 / Section 60117: Administrative
Administrative
Status: in_force

(a) General Authority.—To carry out this chapter, the Secretary of Transportation may conduct investigations, make reports, issue subpenas, conduct hearings, require the production of records, take depositions, and conduct research, testing, development, demonstration, and training activities and promotional activities relating to prevention of damage to pipeline facilities. The Secretary may not charge a tuition-type fee for training State or local government personnel in the enforcement of regulations prescribed under this chapter.

(b) Enforcement Procedures.—

(1) Process.—In implementing enforcement procedures under this chapter and part 190 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), the Secretary shall—

(A) allow the respondent to request the use of a consent agreement and consent order to resolve any matter of fact or law asserted;

(B) allow the respondent and the agency to convene 1 or more meetings—

(i) for settlement or simplification of the issues; or

(ii) to aid in the disposition of issues;

(C) require that the case file in an enforcement proceeding include all agency records pertinent to the matters of fact and law asserted;

(D) allow the respondent to reply to each post-hearing submission of the agency;

(E) allow the respondent to request that a hearing be held, and an order be issued, on an expedited basis;

(F) require that the agency have the burden of proof, presentation, and persuasion in any enforcement matter;

(G) require that any order contain findings of relevant fact and conclusions of law;

(H) require the Office of Pipeline Safety to file a post-hearing recommendation not later than 30 days after the deadline for any post-hearing submission of a respondent;

(I) require an order on a petition for reconsideration to be issued not later than 120 days after the date on which the petition is filed; and

(J) allow an operator to request that an issue of controversy or uncertainty be addressed through a declaratory order in accordance with section 554(e) of title 5.

(2) Open to the public.—A hearing under this section shall be—

(A) noticed to the public on the website of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration; and

(B) in the case of a formal hearing (as defined in section 190.3 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation)), open to the public.

(3) Transparency.—

(A) Agreements, orders, and judgments open to the public.—With respect to each enforcement proceeding under this chapter, the Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration shall make publicly available on the website of the Administration—

(i) the charging documents;

(ii) the written response of the respondent, if filed; and

(iii) any consent agreement, consent order, order, or judgment resulting from a hearing under this chapter.

(B) Gao report on pipeline safety program collection and transparency of enforcement proceedings.—

(i) In general.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the PIPES Act of 2020, the Comptroller General of the United States shall—

(I) review information on pipeline enforcement actions that the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration makes publicly available on the internet; and

(II) submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure and Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report on that review, including any recommendations under clause (iii).

(ii) Contents.—The report under clause (i)(II) shall include—

(I) a description of the process that the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration uses to collect and record enforcement information;

(II) an assessment of whether and, if so, how the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration ensures that enforcement information is made available to the public in an accessible manner; and

(III) an assessment of the information described in clause (i)(I).

(iii) Recommendations.—The report under clause (i)(II) may include recommendations regarding—

(I) any improvements that could be made to the accessibility of the information described in clause (i)(I);

(II) whether and, if so, how the information described in clause (i)(I) could be made more transparent; and

(III) any other recommendations that the Comptroller General of the United States considers appropriate.

(4) Savings clause.—Nothing in this subsection alters the procedures applicable to—

(A) an emergency order under subsection (p);

(B) a safety order under subsection (m); or

(C) a corrective action order under section 60112.

(c) Records, Reports, and Information.—To enable the Secretary to decide whether a person owning or operating a pipeline facility is complying with this chapter and standards prescribed or orders issued under this chapter, the person shall—

(1) maintain records, make reports, and provide information the Secretary requires; and

(2) make the records, reports, and information available when the Secretary requests.

The Secretary may require owners and operators of gathering lines to provide the Secretary information pertinent to the Secretary's ability to make a determination as to whether and to what extent to regulate gathering lines.

(d) Entry and Inspection.—An officer, employee, or agent of the Department of Transportation designated by the Secretary, on display of proper credentials to the individual in charge, may enter premises to inspect the records and property of a person at a reasonable time and in a reasonable way to decide whether a person is complying with this chapter and standards prescribed or orders issued under this chapter.

(e) Confidentiality of Information.—Information related to a confidential matter referred to in section 1905 of title 18 that is obtained by the Secretary or an officer, employee, or agent in carrying out this section may be disclosed only to another officer or employee concerned with carrying out this chapter or in a proceeding under this chapter.

(f) Use of Accident Reports.—(1) Each accident report made by an officer, employee, or agent of the Department may be used in a judicial proceeding resulting from the accident. The officer, employee, or agent may be required to testify in the proceeding about the facts developed in investigating the accident. The report shall be made available to the public in a way that does not identify an individual.

(2) Each report related to research and demonstration projects and related activities is public information.

(g) Testing Facilities Involved in Accidents.—The Secretary may require testing of a part of a pipeline facility subject to this chapter that has been involved in or affected by an accident only after—

(1) notifying the appropriate State official in the State in which the facility is located; and

(2) attempting to negotiate a mutually acceptable plan for testing with the owner of the facility and, when the Secretary considers appropriate, the National Transportation Safety Board.

(h) Providing Safety Information.—On request, the Secretary shall provide the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or appropriate State authority with information the Secretary has on the safety of material, operations, devices, or processes related to pipeline transportation or operating a pipeline facility.

(i) Cooperation.—The Secretary may—

(1) advise, assist, and cooperate with other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government, the States, and public and private agencies and persons in planning and developing safety standards and ways to inspect and test to decide whether those standards have been complied with;

(2) consult with and make recommendations to other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Government, State and local governments, and public and private agencies and persons to develop and encourage activities, including the enactment of legislation, that will assist in carrying out this chapter and improve State and local pipeline safety programs; and

(3) participate in a proceeding involving safety requirements related to a liquefied natural gas facility before the Commission or a State authority.

(j) Promoting Coordination.—(1) After consulting with appropriate State officials, the Secretary shall establish procedures to promote more effective coordination between departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Government and State authorities with regulatory authority over pipeline facilities about responses to a pipeline accident.

(2) In consultation with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Secretary shall establish procedures to notify the Administration of any pipeline accident in which an excavator that has caused damage to a pipeline may have violated a regulation of the Administration.

(k) Withholding Information From Congress.—This section does not authorize information to be withheld from a committee of Congress authorized to have the information.

(l) Authority for Cooperative Agreements.—To carry out this chapter, the Secretary may enter into grants, cooperative agreements, and other transactions with any person, agency, or instrumentality of the United States, any unit of State or local government, any educational institution, or any other entity to further the objectives of this chapter. The objectives of this chapter include the development, improvement, and promotion of one-call damage prevention programs, research, risk assessment, and mapping.

(m) Safety Orders.—

(1) In general.—Not later than December 31, 2007, the Secretary shall issue regulations providing that, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, if the Secretary determines that a pipeline facility has a condition that poses a pipeline integrity risk to public safety, property, or the environment, the Secretary may order the operator of the facility to take necessary corrective action, including physical inspection, testing, repair, or other appropriate action, to remedy that condition.

(2) Considerations.—In making a determination under paragraph (1), the Secretary, if relevant and pursuant to the regulations issued under paragraph (1), shall consider—

(A) the considerations specified in paragraphs (1) through (6) of section 60112(b);

(B) the likelihood that the condition will impair the serviceability of a pipeline;

(C) the likelihood that the condition will worsen over time; and

(D) the likelihood that the condition is present or could develop on other areas of the pipeline.

(n) Restoration of Operations.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary may advise, assist, and cooperate with the heads of other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government, the States, and public and private agencies and persons to facilitate the restoration of pipeline operations that have been or are anticipated to become disrupted by manmade or natural disasters.

(2) Savings clause.—Nothing in this section alters or amends the authorities and responsibilities of any department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government, other than the Department of Transportation.

(o) Cost Recovery for Design Reviews.—

(1) In general.—

(A) Review costs.—For any project described in subparagraph (B), if the Secretary conducts facility design safety reviews in connection with a proposal to construct, expand, or operate a gas or hazardous liquid pipeline facility or liquefied natural gas pipeline facility, including construction inspections and oversight, the Secretary may require the person proposing the project to pay the costs incurred by the Secretary relating to such reviews. If the Secretary exercises the cost recovery authority described in this paragraph, the Secretary shall prescribe a fee structure and assessment methodology that is based on the costs of providing these reviews and shall prescribe procedures to collect fees under this paragraph. The Secretary may not collect design safety review fees under this paragraph and section 60301 for the same design safety review.

(B) Projects to which applicable.—Subparagraph (A) applies to any project that—

(i) has design and construction costs totaling at least $2,500,000,000, as periodically adjusted by the Secretary to take into account increases in the Consumer Price Index for all-urban consumers published by the Department of Labor, based on—

(I) the cost estimate provided to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in an application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity for a gas pipeline facility or an application for authorization for a liquefied natural gas pipeline facility; or

(II) a good faith estimate developed by the person proposing a hazardous liquid pipeline facility and submitted to the Secretary; or

(ii) uses new or novel technologies or design, as determined by the Secretary.

(2) Notification.—For any new pipeline facility construction project in which the Secretary will conduct design reviews, the person proposing the project shall notify the Secretary and provide the design specifications, construction plans and procedures, and related materials at least 120 days prior to the commencement of construction. To the maximum extent practicable, not later than 90 days after receiving such design specifications, construction plans and procedures, and related materials, the Secretary shall provide written comments, feedback, and guidance on the project.

(3) Pipeline safety design review fund.—

(A) Establishment.—There is established a Pipeline Safety Design Review Fund in the Treasury of the United States.

(B) Deposits.—The Secretary shall deposit funds paid under this subsection into the Fund.

(C) Use.—Amounts in the Fund shall be available to the Secretary, in amounts specified in appropriations Acts, to offset the costs of conducting facility design safety reviews under this subsection.

(4) No additional permitting authority.—Nothing in this subsection may be construed as authorizing the Secretary to require a person to obtain a permit before beginning design and construction in connection with a project described in paragraph (1)(B).

(p) Emergency Order Authority.—

(1) In general.—If the Secretary determines that an unsafe condition or practice, or a combination of unsafe conditions and practices, constitutes or is causing an imminent hazard, the Secretary may issue an emergency order described in paragraph (3) imposing emergency restrictions, prohibitions, and safety measures on owners and operators of gas or hazardous liquid pipeline facilities without prior notice or an opportunity for a hearing, but only to the extent necessary to abate the imminent hazard.

(2) Considerations.—

(A) In general.—Before issuing an emergency order under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider, as appropriate, the following factors:

(i) The impact of the emergency order on public health and safety.

(ii) The impact, if any, of the emergency order on the national or regional economy or national security.

(iii) The impact of the emergency order on the ability of owners and operators of pipeline facilities to maintain reliability and continuity of service to customers.

(B) Consultation.—In considering the factors under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consult, as the Secretary determines appropriate, with appropriate Federal agencies, State agencies, and other entities knowledgeable in pipeline safety or operations.

(3) Written order.—An emergency order issued by the Secretary pursuant to paragraph (1) with respect to an imminent hazard shall contain a written description of—

(A) the violation, condition, or practice that constitutes or is causing the imminent hazard;

(B) the entities subject to the order;

(C) the restrictions, prohibitions, or safety measures imposed;

(D) the standards and procedures for obtaining relief from the order;

(E) how the order is tailored to abate the imminent hazard and the reasons the authorities under section 60112 and subsection (m) are insufficient to do so; and

(F) how the considerations were taken into account pursuant to paragraph (2).

(4) Opportunity for review.—Upon receipt of a petition for review from an entity subject to, and aggrieved by, an emergency order issued under this subsection, the Secretary shall provide an opportunity for a review of the order under section 554 of title 5 to determine whether the order should remain in effect, be modified, or be terminated.

(5) Expiration of effectiveness order.—If a petition for review of an emergency order is filed under paragraph (4) and an agency decision with respect to the petition is not issued on or before the last day of the 30-day period beginning on the date on which the petition is filed, the order shall cease to be effective on such day, unless the Secretary determines in writing on or before the last day of such period that the imminent hazard still exists.

(6) Judicial review of orders.—

(A) In general.—After completion of the review process described in paragraph (4), or the issuance of a written determination by the Secretary pursuant to paragraph (5), an entity subject to, and aggrieved by, an emergency order issued under this subsection may seek judicial review of the order in a district court of the United States and shall be given expedited consideration.

(B) Limitation.—The filing of a petition for review under subparagraph (A) shall not stay or modify the force and effect of the agency's final decision under paragraph (4), or the written determination under paragraph (5), unless stayed or modified by the Secretary.

(7) Regulations.—

(A) Temporary regulations.—Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of the PIPES Act of 2016, the Secretary shall issue such temporary regulations as are necessary to carry out this subsection. The temporary regulations shall expire on the date of issuance of the final regulations required under subparagraph (B).

(B) Final regulations.—Not later than 270 days after such date of enactment, the Secretary shall issue such regulations as are necessary to carry out this subsection. Such regulations shall ensure that the review process described in paragraph (4) contains the same procedures as subsections (d) and (g) of section 109.19 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, and is otherwise consistent with the review process developed under such section, to the greatest extent practicable and not inconsistent with this section.

(8) Imminent hazard defined.—In this subsection, the term "imminent hazard" means the existence of a condition relating to a gas or hazardous liquid pipeline facility that presents a substantial likelihood that death, serious illness, severe personal injury, or a substantial endangerment to health, property, or the environment may occur before the reasonably foreseeable completion date of a formal proceeding begun to lessen the risk of such death, illness, injury, or endangerment.

(9) Limitation and savings clause.—An emergency order issued under this subsection may not be construed to—

(A) alter, amend, or limit the Secretary's obligations under, or the applicability of, section 553 of title 5; or

(B) provide the authority to amend the Code of Federal Regulations.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1321; Pub. L. 103–429, §6(77), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4388; Pub. L. 104–304, §§12, 19, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3802, 3804; Pub. L. 107–355, §7, Dec. 17, 2002, 116 Stat. 2993; Pub. L. 109–468, §§11, 13, 17, Dec. 29, 2006, 120 Stat. 3494–3496; Pub. L. 112–90, §13(a), Jan. 3, 2012, 125 Stat. 1913; Pub. L. 114–183, §16, June 22, 2016, 130 Stat. 525; Pub. L. 116–260, div. R, title I, §108(a), (b)(2), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2221, 2223.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Pub. L. 103–272

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

60117(a)
49 App.:1681(a) (1st sentence words before semicolon).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, §14(a) (1st sentence), 82 Stat. 727; restated Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §§104(b), 106, 93 Stat. 992, 994.

  
49 App.:1681(a) (last sentence).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, 82 Stat. 720, §14(a) (last sentence); added Oct. 11, 1984, Pub. L. 98–464, §7(a), 98 Stat. 1823.

  
49 App.:2010(a) (1st sentence words before semicolon).
Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §211(a) (1st sentence), 93 Stat. 1012.

  
49 App.:2010(a) (last sentence).
Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, 93 Stat. 989, §211(a) (last sentence); added Oct. 11, 1984, Pub. L. 98–464, §7(b), 98 Stat. 1823.

60117(b)
49 App.:1681(b).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, §14(b)–(e), 82 Stat. 727; restated Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §§104(b), 106, 93 Stat. 992, 995.

  
49 App.:2010(b).
Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §211(b)–(e), 93 Stat. 1012.

60117(c)
49 App.:1681(c).

  
49 App.:2010(c).

60117(d)
49 App.:1681(e) (1st sentence).

  
49 App.:2010(e) (1st sentence).

60117(e)
49 App.:1681(d).

  
49 App.:2010(d).

60117(f)
49 App.:1681(a) (1st sentence words after semicolon).

  
49 App.:1681(a) (2d sentence).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, 82 Stat. 720, §14(a) (2d sentence); added Oct. 31, 1988, Pub. L. 100–561, §109, 102 Stat. 2809.

  
49 App.:2010(a) (1st sentence words after semicolon).

  
49 App.:2010(a) (2d sentence).
Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, 93 Stat. 989, §211(a) (2d sentence); added Oct. 31, 1988, Pub. L. 100–561, §208, 102 Stat. 2812.

60117(g)
49 App.:1682(a).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, §15(a), 82 Stat. 727; Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §§104(b), 109(j)(2), (k), 155(b), 93 Stat. 992, 997, 1003.

  
49 App.:2011(a).
Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §212(a)–(c), 93 Stat. 1013.

60117(h)(1)
49 App.:1682(b).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, §15(b), 82 Stat. 727; Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §§104(b), 109(j)(2), 93 Stat. 992, 997.

  
49 App.:2011(b).

60117(h)(2)
49 App.:1682(c).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, 82 Stat. 720, §15(c); added Aug. 22, 1972, Pub. L. 92–401, §3, 86 Stat. 616; Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §§104(b), 109(j)(2), 93 Stat. 992, 997.

  
49 App.:2011(c).

60117(h)(3)
49 App.:1682(d).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, 82 Stat. 720, §15(d); added Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, §155(a), 93 Stat. 1003.

60117(i)
49 App.:1676(b).
Aug. 12, 1968, Pub. L. 90–481, 82 Stat. 720, §9(b); added Oct. 31, 1988, Pub. L. 100–561, §105(2), 102 Stat. 2807.

  
49 App.:2011(d).
Nov. 30, 1979, Pub. L. 96–129, 93 Stat. 989, §212(d); added Oct. 31, 1988, Pub. L. 100–561, §209, 102 Stat. 2812.

60117(j)
49 App.:1681(e) (last sentence).

  
49 App.:2010(e) (last sentence).

In subsection (a), the words "to the extent necessary . . . his responsibilities under" and "relevant" are omitted as surplus. The words "documents and" are omitted as being included in "records". The words "directly or, by contract, or otherwise" are omitted as surplus.

In subsections (b), before clause (1), and (c), the words "has acted or . . . acting" are omitted as surplus. The word "prescribed" is added for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (b)(1), the words "establish and" and "reasonably" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c), the words "enter premises to" are substituted for "enter upon" for clarity and consistency. The words "and examine" and "to the extent such records and properties are relevant" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (d), the words "related to a confidential matter" are substituted for "which information contains or relates to a trade secret . . . shall be considered confidential for the purpose of that section" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "All information reported to or otherwise" are omitted as surplus. The words "an officer, employee, or agent" are substituted for "his representative" for consistency. The word "only" is substituted for "except that such information" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "when relevant" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (e)(1), the words "civil, criminal, or other" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (f), before clause (1), the words "however . . . exercise authority under this section to" are omitted as surplus. In clause (1), the word "affected" is omitted as surplus. In clause (2), the word "attempting" is substituted for "make every effort" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "for testing" and "the Secretary considers" are added for clarity.

In subsection (g), the words "with respect to matters under their jurisdiction" in 49 App.:2011(a) are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (h)(1) and (2), the word "instrumentalities" is added for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the Code.

In subsection (h)(1), the word "Federal" before "safety" is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (h)(3), the words "as a matter of right intervene or otherwise" and the text of 49 App.:1682(d) (last sentence) are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (i), the words "Not later than 1 year after October 31, 1988" are omitted as obsolete. The words "departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Government and State authorities" are substituted for "agencies of the United States and of the States" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the Code.

In subsection (j), the words "by the Secretary or any officer, employee, or agent under his control" are omitted as surplus. The words "to have the information" are substituted for "duly" for clarity.

Pub. L. 103–429

This amends 49:60117(i) by restating section 304(c) of the Pipeline Safety Act of 1992 (Public Law 102–508, 106 Stat. 3308) as 49:60117(i)(2).

 

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

60117(i)(2)
49 App.:1682 (note).
Oct. 24, 1992, Pub. L. 102–508, §304(c), 106 Stat. 3308.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of the PIPES Act of 2020, referred to in subsec. (b)(3)(B)(i), is the date of enactment of div. R of Pub. L. 116–260, which was approved Dec. 27, 2020.

The date of enactment of the PIPES Act of 2016 and such date of enactment, referred to in subsec. (p)(7), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 114–183, which was approved June 22, 2016.

Amendments

2020—Subsecs. (b) to (p). Pub. L. 116–260, §108(a), added subsec. (b) and redesignated former subsecs. (b) to (o) as (c) to (p), respectively.

Subsec. (p)(3)(E). Pub. L. 116–260, §108(b)(2), substituted "subsection (m)" for "60117(l)".

2016—Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 114–183 added subsec. (o).

2012—Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 112–90 amended subsec. (n) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows:

"(1) In general.—If the Secretary conducts facility design safety reviews in connection with a proposal to construct, expand, or operate a liquefied natural gas pipeline facility, the Secretary may require the person requesting such reviews to pay the associated staff costs relating to such reviews incurred by the Secretary in section 60301(d). The Secretary may assess such costs in any reasonable manner.

"(2) Deposit.—The Secretary shall deposit all funds paid to the Secretary under this subsection into the Department of Treasury account 69–5172–0–2–407 or its successor account.

"(3) Authorization of appropriations.—Funds deposited pursuant to this subsection are authorized to be appropriated for the purposes set forth in section 60301(d)."

2006—Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 109–468, §13, reenacted heading without change and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "If the Secretary decides that a pipeline facility has a potential safety-related condition, the Secretary may order the operator of the facility to take necessary corrective action, including physical inspection, testing, repair, replacement, or other appropriate action to remedy the safety-related condition."

Subsecs. (m), (n). Pub. L. 109–468, §§11, 17, added subsecs. (m) and (n).

2002—Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 107–355 added subsec. (l).

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–304, §19, inserted "and promotional activities relating to prevention of damage to pipeline facilities" after "and training activities".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–304, §12(1), (3), substituted "owning" for "transporting gas or hazardous liquid" and inserted at end "The Secretary may require owners and operators of gathering lines to provide the Secretary information pertinent to the Secretary's ability to make a determination as to whether and to what extent to regulate gathering lines."

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 104–304, §12(2), added subsec. (k).

1994—Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 103–429 designated existing provisions as par. (1) and added par. (2).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Regulations

Pub. L. 112–90, §20(a), Jan. 3, 2012, 125 Stat. 1916, provided that:

"(1) In general.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Jan. 3, 2012], the Secretary of Transportation shall issue regulations—

"(A) requiring hearings under sections 60112, 60117, 60118, and 60122 of title 49, United States Code, to be convened before a presiding official;

"(B) providing the opportunity for any person requesting a hearing under section 60112, 60117, 60118, or 60122 of such title to arrange for a transcript of the hearing, at the expense of the requesting person;

"(C) ensuring expedited review of any order issued pursuant to section 60112(e) of such title;

"(D) implementing a separation of functions between personnel involved with the investigation and prosecution of an enforcement case and advising the Secretary on findings and determinations; and

"(E) prohibiting ex-parte communication relevant to the question to be decided in such a case by parties to an investigation or hearing.

"(2) Presiding official.—The regulations issued under this subsection shall—

"(A) define the term 'presiding official' to mean the person who conducts any hearing relating to civil penalty assessments, compliance orders, safety orders, or corrective action orders; and

"(B) require that the presiding official be an attorney on the staff of the Deputy Chief Counsel of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration that is not engaged in investigative or prosecutorial functions, including the preparation of notices of probable violations, notices relating to civil penalty assessments, notices relating to compliance, or notices of proposed corrective actions.

"(3) Expedited review.—The regulations issued under this subsection shall define the term 'expedited review' for the purposes of paragraph (1)(C)."

Safety Data Sheets

Pub. L. 114–183, §14, June 22, 2016, 130 Stat. 524, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Each owner or operator of a hazardous liquid pipeline facility, following an accident involving such pipeline facility that results in a hazardous liquid spill, shall provide safety data sheets on any spilled hazardous liquid to the designated Federal On-Scene Coordinator and appropriate State and local emergency responders within 6 hours of a telephonic or electronic notice of the accident to the National Response Center.

"(b) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) Federal on-scene coordinator.—The term 'Federal On-Scene Coordinator' has the meaning given such term in section 311(a) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321(a)).

"(2) National response center.—The term 'National Response Center' means the center described under section 300.125(a) of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.

"(3) Safety data sheet.—The term 'safety data sheet' means a safety data sheet required under section 1910.1200 of title 29, Code of Federal Regulations."

Accident and Incident Notification

Pub. L. 112–90, §9, Jan. 3, 2012, 125 Stat. 1912, provided that:

"(a) Revision of Regulations.—Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Jan. 3, 2012], the Secretary of Transportation shall revise regulations issued under sections 191.5 and 195.52 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, to establish specific time limits for telephonic or electronic notice of accidents and incidents involving pipeline facilities to the Secretary and the National Response Center.

"(b) Minimum Requirements.—In revising the regulations, the Secretary, at a minimum, shall—

"(1) establish time limits for telephonic or electronic notification of an accident or incident to require such notification at the earliest practicable moment following confirmed discovery of an accident or incident and not later than 1 hour following the time of such confirmed discovery;

"(2) review procedures for owners and operators of pipeline facilities and the National Response Center to provide thorough and coordinated notification to all relevant State and local emergency response officials, including 911 emergency call centers, for the jurisdictions in which those pipeline facilities are located in the event of an accident or incident, and revise such procedures as appropriate; and

"(3) require such owners and operators to revise their initial telephonic or electronic notice to the Secretary and the National Response Center with an estimate of the amount of the product released, an estimate of the number of fatalities and injuries, if any, and any other information determined appropriate by the Secretary within 48 hours of the accident or incident, to the extent practicable.

"(c) Updating of Reports.—After receiving revisions described in subsection (b)(3), the National Response Center shall update the initial report on an accident or incident instead of generating a new report."

[Terms used in section 9 of Pub. L. 112–90, set out above, have the meaning given those terms in this chapter, see section 1(c)(1) of Pub. L. 112–90, set out as a note under section 60101 of this title.]

Guidance

Pub. L. 112–90, §13(b), Jan. 3, 2012, 125 Stat. 1914, provided that: "Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Jan. 3, 2012], the Secretary of Transportation shall issue guidance to clarify the meaning of the term 'new or novel technologies or design' as used in section 60117(n)(1)(B)(ii) [now 49 U.S.C. 60117(o)(1)(B)(ii)] of title 49, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a) of this section."

Pipeline Safety Training for State and Local Government Personnel

Pub. L. 112–90, §25, Jan. 3, 2012, 125 Stat. 1919, provided that:

"(a) In General.—To further the objectives of chapter 601 of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary of Transportation may provide the services of personnel from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to provide training for State and local government personnel at a pipeline safety training facility that is established and operated by an agency or instrumentality of the United States, a unit of State or local government, or an educational institution.

"(b) Reimbursements for Training Expenditures.—

"(1) In general.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary may require reimbursement from sources other than the Federal Government for all expenses incurred by the Secretary in providing training for State and local government personnel under subsection (a), including salaries, expenses, transportation for Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration personnel, and the cost of training materials.

"(2) Authorization of appropriations.—Amounts collected as reimbursement under paragraph (1) are authorized to be appropriated for the purposes set forth in chapter 601 of title 49, United States Code."

[Terms used in section 25 of Pub. L. 112–90, set out above, have the meaning given those terms in this chapter, see section 1(c)(1) of Pub. L. 112–90, set out as a note under section 60101 of this title.]

Tribal Consultation for Pipeline Projects

Pub. L. 112–90, §30, Jan. 3, 2012, 125 Stat. 1921, provided that: "Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Jan. 3, 2012], the Secretary of Transportation shall develop and implement a protocol for consulting with Indian tribes to provide technical assistance for the regulation of pipelines that are under the jurisdiction of Indian tribes."

Incident Reporting

Pub. L. 109–468, §15, Dec. 29, 2006, 120 Stat. 3496, provided that: "Not later than December 31, 2007, the Secretary of Transportation shall review the incident reporting requirements for operators of natural gas pipelines and modify the reporting criteria as appropriate to ensure that the incident data gathered accurately reflects incident trends over time, taking into consideration the recommendations from the Comptroller General in GAO report 06–946."

Accident Reporting Form

Pub. L. 109–468, §20, Dec. 29, 2006, 120 Stat. 3498, provided that: "Not later than December 31, 2007, the Secretary of Transportation shall amend accident reporting forms to require operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipelines to provide data related to controller fatigue."
49 U.S.C. § 47511 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 475 / Subchapter I / Section 47511: CLEEN engine and airframe technology partnership
CLEEN engine and airframe technology partnership
Status: in_force

(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall enter into a cost-sharing cooperative agreement, using a competitive process, with institutions, entities, or consortiums to carry out a program for the development, maturation, and testing of certifiable CLEEN aircraft, engine technologies, and jet fuels for civil airplanes.

(b) CLEEN Engine and Airframe Technology Defined.—In this section, the term "CLEEN aircraft and engine technology" means continuous lower energy, emissions, and noise aircraft and engine technology.

(c) Performance Objective.—The Administrator shall establish the performance objectives for the program in terms of the specific objectives to reduce fuel burn, emissions and noise.

(d) Selection.—In carrying out the program, the Administrator may provide that not less than 2 of the cooperative agreements entered into under this section involve the participation of an entity that is a small business concern (as defined in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632)), provided that the submitted technology proposal of the entity meets, at a minimum, FAA Acquisition Management System requirements and requisite technology readiness levels for entry into the agreement, as determined by the Administrator.

(Added Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title VII, §743(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3413; amended Pub. L. 118–63, title X, §1008, May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1389.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2024—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 118–63, §1008(1), struck out "subsonic" after "fuels for civil".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 118–63, §1008(2), added subsec. (d).
49 U.S.C. § 33115 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 331 / Section 33115: Civil penalties and enforcement
Civil penalties and enforcement
Status: in_force

(a) General Penalty and Civil Actions To Collect.—(1) A person that violates section 33114(a)(1)–(4) of this title is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each violation. The failure of more than one part of a single motor vehicle to conform to an applicable standard under section 33102 or 33103 of this title is only a single violation. The maximum penalty under this subsection for a related series of violations is $250,000.

(2) The Secretary of Transportation imposes a civil penalty under this subsection. The Secretary may compromise the amount of a penalty.

(3) In determining the amount of a civil penalty or compromise under this subsection, the Secretary shall consider the size of the person's business and the gravity of the violation.

(4) The Attorney General shall bring a civil action in a United States district court to collect a civil penalty imposed under this subsection.

(5) The Government may deduct the amount of a civil penalty imposed or compromised under this subsection from amounts it owes the person liable for the penalty.

(b) Chop Shop Penalty and Enforcement.—(1) A person that violates section 33114(a)(5) of this title is liable to the Government for a civil penalty of not more than $100,000 a day for each violation.

(2) As appropriate and in consultation with the Attorney General, the Secretary shall—

(A) bring a civil action for a temporary or permanent injunction to restrain a person violating section 33114(a)(5) of this section;

(B) impose and recover the penalty described in paragraph (1) of this subsection; or

(C) take both the actions described in clauses (A) and (B) of this paragraph.

(c) Civil Actions To Enforce.—(1) The Attorney General may bring a civil action in a United States district court to enjoin a violation of this chapter or the sale, offer for sale, introduction or delivery for introduction in interstate commerce, or importation into the United States, of a passenger motor vehicle containing a major part, or of a major replacement part, that is subject to the standard and is determined before the sale of the vehicle or part to a first purchaser not to conform to the standard.

(2)(A) When practicable, the Secretary—

(i) shall notify a person against whom an action under this subsection is planned;

(ii) shall give the person an opportunity to present that person's views; and

(iii) except for a knowing and willful violation, shall give the person a reasonable opportunity to comply.

(B) The failure of the Secretary to comply with subparagraph (A) of this paragraph does not prevent a court from granting appropriate relief.

(d) Jury Trial Demand.—In a trial for criminal contempt for violating an injunction or restraining order issued under subsection (c) of this section, the violation of which is also a violation of this chapter, the defendant may demand a jury trial. The defendant shall be tried as provided in rule 42(b) of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (18 App. U.S.C.).

(e) Venue.—A civil action under subsection (a) or (c) of this section may be brought in the judicial district in which the violation occurred or the defendant resides, is found, or transacts business. Process in the action may be served in any other judicial district in which the defendant resides or is found. A subpena for a witness in the action may be served in any judicial district.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1091.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

33115(a)
15:2028(a).
Oct. 20, 1972, Pub. L. 92–513, 86 Stat. 947, §611; added Oct. 25, 1984, Pub. L. 98–547, §101(a), 98 Stat. 2762; Oct. 25, 1992, Pub. L. 102–519, §306(a), 106 Stat. 3397.

33115(b)
15:2027(c)(2).
Oct. 20, 1972, Pub. L. 92–513, §86 Stat. 947, §610(c)(2); added Oct. 25, 1992, Pub. L. 102–519, §§305(b), 306(a), 106 Stat. 3396, 3397.

33115(c)(1)
15:2028(b)(1) (1st sentence).

33115(c)(2)
15:2028(b)(1) (2d, last sentences).

33115(d)
15:2028(b)(2).

33115(e)
15:2028(b)(3), (4).

In subsection (a)(1), the words "section 33114(a)(1)–(4)" are used to correct an erroneous cross-reference in section 611(a)(1) of the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act (Public Law 92–513, 86 Stat. 947) to section 607 of that Act. Sections 607 and 611 were redesignated by section 306(a) of the Anti Car Theft Act of 1992 (Public Law 102–519, 106 Stat. 3397). The words "is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty" are substituted for "may be assessed a civil penalty" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code.

In subsection (a)(2), the word "imposes" is substituted for "assessed" for consistency.

In subsection (a)(3), the words "the appropriateness of such penalty to" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(5), the words "United States district court" are added for clarity and consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (c)(1), the words "The Attorney General may bring a civil action" are substituted for "Upon petition by the Attorney General" for consistency with rule 2 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 App. U.S.C.). The words "on behalf of the United States" are omitted as surplus. The words "shall have jurisdiction" are omitted because of 28:1331. The words "for cause shown and subject to the provisions of rule 65(a) and (b) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure" are omitted as surplus because the rules apply in the absence of an exception from them. The word "enjoin" is substituted for "restrain" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (d), the words "the defendant may demand a jury trial" are substituted for "trial shall be by the court, or, upon demand of the accused, by a jury" to eliminate unnecessary words and for consistency in the revised title.
49 U.S.C. § 22403 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 224 / Section 22403: Administration of direct loans and loan guarantees
Administration of direct loans and loan guarantees
Status: in_force

(a) Applications.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary shall prescribe the form and contents required of applications for assistance under section 22402, to enable the Secretary to determine the eligibility of the applicant's proposal, and shall establish terms and conditions for direct loans and loan guarantees made under that section, including a program guide, a standard term sheet, and specific timetables.

(2) Documentation.—An applicant meeting the size standard for small business concerns established under section 3(a)(2) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(a)(2)) may provide unaudited financial statements as documentation of historical financial information if such statements are accompanied by the applicant's Federal tax returns and Internal Revenue Service tax verifications for the corresponding years.

(b) Full Faith and Credit.—All guarantees entered into by the Secretary under section 22402 shall constitute general obligations of the United States of America backed by the full faith and credit of the United States of America.

(c) Assignment of Loan Guarantees.—The holder of a loan guarantee made under section 22402 may assign the loan guarantee in whole or in part, subject to such requirements as the Secretary may prescribe.

(d) Modifications.—The Secretary may approve the modification of any term or condition of a direct loan, loan guarantee, direct loan obligation, or loan guarantee commitment, including the rate of interest, time of payment of interest or principal, or security requirements, if the Secretary finds in writing that—

(1) the modification is equitable and is in the overall best interests of the United States;

(2) consent has been obtained from the applicant and, in the case of a loan guarantee or loan guarantee commitment, the holder of the obligation; and

(3) the modification cost has been covered under section 22402(f).

(e) Compliance.—The Secretary shall assure compliance, by an applicant, any other party to the loan, and any railroad or railroad partner for whose benefit assistance is intended, with the provisions of this chapter, regulations issued hereunder, and the terms and conditions of the direct loan or loan guarantee, including through regular periodic inspections.

(f) Commercial Validity.—For purposes of claims by any party other than the Secretary, a loan guarantee or loan guarantee commitment shall be conclusive evidence that the underlying obligation is in compliance with the provisions of this chapter, and that such obligation has been approved and is legal as to principal, interest, and other terms. Such a guarantee or commitment shall be valid and incontestable in the hands of a holder thereof, including the original lender or any other holder, as of the date when the Secretary granted the application therefor, except as to fraud or material misrepresentation by such holder.

(g) Default.—The Secretary shall prescribe regulations setting forth procedures in the event of default on a loan made or guaranteed under section 22402. The Secretary shall ensure that each loan guarantee made under that section contains terms and conditions that provide that—

(1) if a payment of principal or interest under the loan is in default for more than 30 days, the Secretary shall pay to the holder of the obligation, or the holder's agent, the amount of unpaid guaranteed interest;

(2) if the default has continued for more than 90 days, the Secretary shall pay to the holder of the obligation, or the holder's agent, 90 percent of the unpaid guaranteed principal;

(3) after final resolution of the default, through liquidation or otherwise, the Secretary shall pay to the holder of the obligation, or the holder's agent, any remaining amounts guaranteed but which were not recovered through the default's resolution;

(4) the Secretary shall not be required to make any payment under paragraphs (1) through (3) if the Secretary finds, before the expiration of the periods described in such paragraphs, that the default has been remedied; and

(5) the holder of the obligation shall not receive payment or be entitled to retain payment in a total amount which, together with all other recoveries (including any recovery based upon a security interest in equipment or facilities) exceeds the actual loss of such holder.

(h) Rights of the Secretary.—

(1) Subrogation.—If the Secretary makes payment to a holder, or a holder's agent, under subsection (g) in connection with a loan guarantee made under section 22402, the Secretary shall be subrogated to all of the rights of the holder with respect to the obligor under the loan.

(2) Disposition of property.—The Secretary may complete, recondition, reconstruct, renovate, repair, maintain, operate, charter, rent, sell, or otherwise dispose of any property or other interests obtained pursuant to this section. The Secretary shall not be subject to any Federal or State regulatory requirements when carrying out this paragraph.

(i) Action Against Obligor.—The Secretary may bring a civil action in an appropriate Federal court in the name of the United States in the event of a default on a direct loan made under section 22402, or in the name of the United States or of the holder of the obligation in the event of a default on a loan guaranteed under section 22402. The holder of a guarantee shall make available to the Secretary all records and evidence necessary to prosecute the civil action. The Secretary may accept property in full or partial satisfaction of any sums owed as a result of a default. If the Secretary receives, through the sale or other disposition of such property, an amount greater than the aggregate of—

(1) the amount paid to the holder of a guarantee under subsection (g) of this section; and

(2) any other cost to the United States of remedying the default,

the Secretary shall pay such excess to the obligor.

(j) Breach of Conditions.—The Attorney General shall commence a civil action in an appropriate Federal court to enjoin any activity which the Secretary finds is in violation of this chapter, regulations issued hereunder, or any conditions which were duly agreed to, and to secure any other appropriate relief.

(k) Attachment.—No attachment or execution may be issued against the Secretary, or any property in the control of the Secretary, prior to the entry of final judgment to such effect in any State, Federal, or other court.

(l) Charges and Loan Servicing.—

(1) Purposes.—The Secretary may collect from each applicant, obligor, or loan party a reasonable charge for—

(A) the cost of evaluating the application, amendments, modifications, and waivers, including for evaluating project viability, applicant creditworthiness, and the appraisal of the value of the equipment or facilities for which the direct loan or loan guarantee is sought, and for making necessary determinations and findings;

(B) the cost of award management and project management oversight;

(C) the cost of services from expert firms, including counsel, and independent financial advisors to assist in the underwriting, auditing, servicing, and exercise of rights with respect to direct loans and loan guarantees; and

(D) the cost of all other expenses incurred as a result of a breach of any term or condition or any event of default on a direct loan or loan guarantee.

(2) Standards.—The Secretary may charge different amounts under this subsection based on the different costs incurred under paragraph (1).

(3) Servicer.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary may appoint a financial entity to assist the Secretary in servicing a direct loan or loan guarantee under this chapter.

(B) Duties.—A servicer appointed under subparagraph (A) shall act as the agent of the Secretary in servicing a direct loan or loan guarantee under this chapter.

(C) Fees.—A servicer appointed under subparagraph (A) shall receive a servicing fee from the obligor or other loan party, subject to approval by the Secretary.

(4) National surface transportation and innovative finance bureau account.—Amounts collected under this subsection shall—

(A) be credited directly to the National Surface Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau account; and

(B) remain available until expended to pay for the costs described in this subsection.

(m) Fees and Charges.—Except as provided in this chapter, the Secretary may not assess any fees, including user fees, or charges in connection with a direct loan or loan guarantee provided under section 22402.

(Added and amended Pub. L. 117–58, div. B, title I, §21301(a)(2), (5), (e), Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 683, 689.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

The text of section 823 of Title 45, Railroads, which was transferred to this section and amended by Pub. L. 117–58, div. B, title I, §21301(a)(5), (e), was based on Pub. L. 94–210, title V, §503, as added and amended Pub. L. 105–178, title VII, §7203(a)(1), (4), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 475, 477; Pub. L. 109–59, title IX, §9003(h), (i), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1923; Pub. L. 114–94, div. A, title XI, §11605(b), Dec. 4, 2015, 129 Stat. 1695; Pub. L. 115–56, div. D, §164(b), as added Pub. L. 115–123, div. B, §20101(2), Feb. 9, 2018, 132 Stat. 121.

Amendments

2021—Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(a)(5), transferred text of section 823 of Title 45, Railroads, to this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(1), designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted heading, substituted "section 22402" for "section 502", and added par. (2).

Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4)(A), substituted "section 22402" for "section 502".

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(2), substituted "section 22402(f)" for "section 502(f)".

Subsecs. (e), (f). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4)(B), substituted "this chapter" for "this title".

Subsecs. (g), (h)(1). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4)(A), substituted "section 22402" for "section 502".

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4)(A), substituted "section 22402" for "section 502" in two places in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4)(B), substituted "this chapter" for "this title".

Subsec. (l)(3)(A). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4)(B), substituted "this chapter" for "this title".

Subsec. (l)(3)(B). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4)(B), substituted "this chapter" for "this title".

Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(3), substituted "servicing a direct loan" for "serving a direct loan".

Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 117–58, §21301(e)(4), substituted "section 22402" for "section 502" and "this chapter" for "this title".
49 U.S.C. § 49104 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 491 / Section 49104: Lease of Metropolitan Washington Airports
Lease of Metropolitan Washington Airports
Status: in_force

(a) General.—The lease between the Secretary of Transportation and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority under section 6005(a) of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Act of 1986 (Public Law 99–500; 100 Stat. 1783–375; Public Law 99–591; 100 Stat. 3341–378), for the Metropolitan Washington Airports must provide during its 50-year term at least the following:

(1) The Airports Authority shall operate, maintain, protect, promote, and develop the Metropolitan Washington Airports as a unit and as primary airports serving the Metropolitan Washington area.

(2)(A) In this paragraph, "airport purposes" means a use of property interests (except a sale) for—

(i) aviation business or activities;

(ii) activities necessary or appropriate to serve passengers or cargo in air commerce;

(iii) nonprofit, public use facilities that are not inconsistent with the needs of aviation; or

(iv) a business or activity not inconsistent with the needs of aviation that has been approved by the Secretary.

(B) During the period of the lease, the real property constituting the Metropolitan Washington Airports shall be used only for airport purposes.

(C) If the Secretary decides that any part of the real property leased to the Airports Authority under this chapter is used for other than airport purposes, the Secretary shall—

(i) direct that the Airports Authority take appropriate measures to have that part of the property be used for airport purposes; and

(ii) retake possession of the property if the Airports Authority fails to have that part of the property be used for airport purposes within a reasonable period of time, as the Secretary decides.

(3) The Airports Authority is subject to section 47107(a)–(c) and (e) of this title and to the assurances and conditions required of grant recipients under the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982 (Public Law 97–248; 96 Stat. 671) as in effect on June 7, 1987. Notwithstanding section 47107(b) of this title, all revenues generated by the Metropolitan Washington Airports shall be expended for the capital and operating costs of the Metropolitan Washington Airports.

(4) In acquiring by contract supplies or services for an amount estimated to be more than $200,000, or awarding concession contracts, the Airports Authority to the maximum extent practicable shall obtain complete and open competition through the use of published competitive procedures. By a vote of 7 members, the Airports Authority may grant exceptions to the requirements of this paragraph.

(5)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph, all regulations of the Metropolitan Washington Airports (14 CFR part 159) 1 become regulations of the Airports Authority as of June 7, 1987, and remain in effect until modified or revoked by the Airports Authority under procedures of the Airports Authority.

(B) Sections 159.59(a) and 159.191 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations,1 do not become regulations of the Airports Authority.

(C) The Airports Authority may not increase or decrease the number of instrument flight rule takeoffs and landings authorized by the High Density Rule (14 CFR 93.121 et seq.) at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on October 18, 1986, and may not impose a limitation on the number of passengers taking off or landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

(D) Subparagraph (C) does not apply to any increase in the number of instrument flight rule takeoffs and landings necessary to implement exemptions granted by the Secretary under section 41718.

(6)(A) Except as specified in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph, the Airports Authority shall assume all rights, liabilities, and obligations of the Metropolitan Washington Airports on June 7, 1987, including leases, permits, licenses, contracts, agreements, claims, tariffs, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and litigation related to those rights and obligations, regardless whether judgment has been entered, damages awarded, or appeal taken. The Airports Authority must cooperate in allowing representatives of the Attorney General and the Secretary adequate access to employees and records when needed for the performance of duties and powers related to the period before June 7, 1987. The Airports Authority shall assume responsibility for the Federal Aviation Administration's Master Plans for the Metropolitan Washington Airports.

(B) The procedure for disputes resolution contained in any contract entered into on behalf of the United States Government before June 7, 1987, continues to govern the performance of the contract unless otherwise agreed to by the parties to the contract. Claims for monetary damages founded in tort, by or against the Government as the owner and operator of the Metropolitan Washington Airports, arising before June 7, 1987, shall be adjudicated as if the lease had not been entered into.

(C) The Administration is responsible for reimbursing the Employees' Compensation Fund, as provided in section 8147 of title 5, for compensation paid or payable after June 7, 1987, in accordance with chapter 81 of title 5 for any injury, disability, or death due to events arising before June 7, 1987, whether or not a claim was filed or was final on that date.

(D) The Airports Authority shall continue all collective bargaining rights enjoyed by employees of the Metropolitan Washington Airports before June 7, 1987.

(7) The Comptroller General may conduct periodic audits of the activities and transactions of the Airports Authority in accordance with generally accepted management principles, and under regulations the Comptroller General may prescribe. An audit shall be conducted where the Comptroller General considers it appropriate. All records and property of the Airports Authority shall remain in possession and custody of the Airports Authority.

(8) The Airports Authority shall develop a code of ethics and financial disclosure to ensure the integrity of all decisions made by its board of directors and employees. The code shall include standards by which members of the board will decide, for purposes of section 49106(d) of this title, what constitutes a substantial financial interest and the circumstances under which an exception to the conflict of interest prohibition may be granted.

(9) A landing fee imposed for operating an aircraft or revenues derived from parking automobiles—

(A) at Washington Dulles International Airport may not be used for maintenance or operating expenses (excluding debt service, depreciation, and amortization) at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport; and

(B) at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport may not be used for maintenance or operating expenses (excluding debt service, depreciation, and amortization) at Washington Dulles International Airport.

(10) The Airports Authority shall compute the fees and charges for landing general aviation aircraft at the Metropolitan Washington Airports on the same basis as the landing fees for air carrier aircraft, except that the Airports Authority may require a minimum landing fee that is not more than the landing fee for aircraft weighing 12,500 pounds.

(11) The Secretary shall include other terms applicable to the parties to the lease that are consistent with, and carry out, this chapter.

(b) Payments.—Under the lease, the Airports Authority must pay to the general fund of the Treasury annually an amount, computed using the GNP Price Deflator, equal to $3,000,000 in 1987 dollars. The Secretary and the Airports Authority may renegotiate the level of lease payments attributable to inflation costs every 10 years.

(c) Enforcement of Lease Provisions.—The district courts of the United States have jurisdiction to compel the Airports Authority and its officers and employees to comply with the terms of the lease. The Attorney General or an aggrieved party may bring an action on behalf of the Government.

(d) Extension of Lease.—The Secretary and the Airports Authority may at any time negotiate an extension of the lease.

(Added Pub. L. 105–102, §2(26), Nov. 20, 1997, 111 Stat. 2207; amended Pub. L. 105–154, §2(a)(1)(D), Feb. 6, 1998, 112 Stat. 3; Pub. L. 106–181, title II, §231(e)(2), Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 113; Pub. L. 112–95, title IV, §414(e), Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 92.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

49104(a) 
(uncodified). 
Oct. 18, 1986, Pub. L. 99–500, title VI, §§6005(a), (d), 6007(d) (last sentence), 100 Stat. 1783–375, 1783–376, 1783–380.

  
  
Oct. 18, 1986, Pub. L. 99–500, title VI, §6005(c), 100 Stat. 1783–376; Oct. 9, 1996, Pub. L. 104–264, title IX, §902, 110 Stat. 3274.

  
  
Oct. 30, 1986, Pub. L. 99–591, title VI, §§6005(a), (d), 6007(d) (last sentence), 100 Stat. 3341–378, 3341–379, 3341–383.

  
  
Oct. 30, 1986, Pub. L. 99–591, title VI, §6005(c), 100 Stat. 3341–379; Oct. 9, 1996, Pub. L. 104–264, title IX, §902, 110 Stat. 3274.

49104(b) 
(uncodified). 
Oct. 18, 1986, Pub. L. 99–500, title VI, §6005(b), 100 Stat. 1783–375.

  
  
Oct. 30, 1986, Pub. L. 99–591, title VI, §6005(b), 100 Stat. 3341–378.

49104(c) 
(uncodified). 
Oct. 18, 1986, Pub. L. 99–500, title VI, §6005(e), 100 Stat. 1783–378.

  
  
Oct. 30, 1986, Pub. L. 99–591, title VI, §6005(e), 100 Stat. 3341–381.

49104(d) 
(uncodified). 
Oct. 18, 1986, Pub. L. 99–500, title VI, §6010, 100 Stat. 1783–385.

  
  
Oct. 30, 1986, Pub. L. 99–591, title VI, §6010, 100 Stat. 3341–388.

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the text of section 6005(a) and (d) of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Act of 1986 (Public Law 99–500, 100 Stat. 1783–375, 1783–378, Public Law 99–591, 100 Stat. 3341–378, 3341–381) is omitted as executed. The words "conditions and requirements" are omitted as surplus. In clause (5)(B), the words "(relating to new-technology aircraft)" and "(relating to violations of Federal Aviation Administration regulations as Federal misdemeanors)" are omitted as surplus. In clause (5)(C), the words "after the date the lease takes effect" are omitted as obsolete. In clause (6)(A), the words "(tangible and incorporeal, present and executory)" are omitted as surplus. The words "The Airports Authority must" are substituted for "Before the date the lease takes effect, the Secretary shall also assure that the Airports Authority has agreed to" to eliminate obsolete words. The words "duties and powers" are substituted for "functions" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code. In clause (7), the words "or places" are omitted because of 1:1. The words "books, accounts . . . reports, files, papers" are omitted as being included in "reports". In clause (8), the words "for purposes of section 49106(d) of this title" are added for clarity. In clause (9), before subclause (A), the words "Notwithstanding any other provision of law" are omitted as surplus. In clause (11), the words "and conditions" are omitted as being included in "terms".

In subsection (b), the text of section 6005(b)(2) of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Act of 1986 (Public Law 99–500, 100 Stat. 1783–375, Public Law 99–591, 100 Stat. 3341–378) is omitted as executed.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 6005(a) of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Act of 1986, referred to in subsec. (a), is section 6005(a) of Pub. L. 99–500, title VI, Oct. 18, 1986, 100 Stat. 1783–375, and Pub. L. 99–591, title VI, Oct. 30, 1986, 100 Stat. 3341–378, which was classified to section 2454(a) of former Title 49, Transportation, and was repealed and reenacted as subsec. (a) of this section by Pub. L. 105–102, §§2(26), 5(b), Nov. 20, 1997, 111 Stat. 2205, 2217.

The Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982, referred to in subsec. (a)(3), is title V of Pub. L. 97–248, Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 671, which was classified principally to chapter 31 (§2201 et seq.) of former Title 49, Transportation, and was substantially repealed by Pub. L. 103–272, §7(b), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1379, and reenacted by the first section thereof as subchapter I of chapter 471 of Title 49, Transportation.

Part 159 of title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, including sections 159.59 and 159.191, referred to in subsec. (a)(5)(A), (B), was removed from the Code of Federal Regulations by the Federal Aviation Administration by final rule, effective May 2, 1996. See 61 F.R. 19784.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 49104 was renumbered section 50104 of this title.

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (a)(2)(A)(iv). Pub. L. 112–95 added cl. (iv).

2000—Subsec. (a)(5)(D). Pub. L. 106–181 added subpar. (D).

1998—Subsec. (a)(5)(C), (9)(A), (B). Pub. L. 105–154 substituted "Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport" for "Washington National Airport" wherever appearing.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

1 See References in Text note below.
49 U.S.C. § 44519 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 445 / Section 44519: Certification personnel continuing education and training
Certification personnel continuing education and training
Status: in_force

(a) In General.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall—

(1) develop a program for regular recurrent training of engineers, inspectors, and other subject-matter experts employed in the Aircraft Certification Service of the Administration in accordance with the training strategy developed pursuant to section 231 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–254; 132 Stat. 3256);

(2) to the maximum extent practicable, implement measures, including assignments in multiple divisions of the Aircraft Certification Service, to ensure that such engineers and other subject-matter experts in the Aircraft Certification Service have access to diverse professional opportunities that expand their knowledge and skills;

(3) develop a program to provide continuing education and training to Administration personnel who hold positions involving aircraft certification and flight standards, including human factors specialists, engineers, flight test pilots, inspectors, and, as determined appropriate by the Administrator, industry personnel who may be responsible for compliance activities including designees; and

(4) in consultation with outside experts, develop—

(A) an education and training curriculum on current and new aircraft technologies, human factors, project management, and the roles and responsibilities associated with oversight of designees; and

(B) recommended practices for compliance with Administration regulations.

(b) Implementation.—The Administrator shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure that actions taken pursuant to subsection (a)—

(1) permit engineers, inspectors, and other subject matter experts to continue developing knowledge of, and expertise in, new and emerging technologies in systems design, flight controls, principles of aviation safety, system oversight, and certification project management;

(2) minimize the likelihood of an individual developing an inappropriate bias toward a designer or manufacturer of aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, or appliances;

(3) are consistent with any applicable collective bargaining agreements; and

(4) account for gaps in knowledge and skills (as identified by the Administrator in consultation with the exclusive bargaining representatives certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code) between Administration employees and private-sector employees for each group of Administration employees covered under this section.

(c) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator, $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2028 to carry out this section. Amounts appropriated under the preceding sentence for any fiscal year shall remain available until expended.

(Added Pub. L. 116–260, div. V, title I, §112(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2331; amended Pub. L. 118–63, title III, §306(d), May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1072.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 231 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–254; 132 Stat. 3256), referred to in subsec. (a)(1), is section 231 of Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title II, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3256, which is not classified to the Code.

Amendments

2024—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 118–63 substituted "2028" for "2023".
49 U.S.C. § 32708 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 327 / Section 32708: Confidentiality of information
Confidentiality of information
Status: in_force

(a) General.—Information obtained by the Secretary of Transportation under this chapter related to a confidential matter referred to in section 1905 of title 18 may be disclosed only—

(1) to another officer or employee of the United States Government for use in carrying out this chapter; or

(2) in a proceeding under this chapter.

(b) Withholding Information From Congress.—This section does not authorize information to be withheld from a committee of Congress authorized to have the information.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1054.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

32708
15:1990d(d).
Oct. 20, 1972, Pub. L. 92–513, 86 Stat. 947, §414(d); added July 14, 1976, Pub. L. 94–364, §408(2), 90 Stat. 987.

In subsection (a), before clause (1), the words "reported to or otherwise" and "or his representative" are omitted as surplus. The words "related to a confidential matter referred to" are substituted for "contains or relates to a trade secret or other matter referred to" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "shall be considered confidential for the purpose of that section" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b), the words "a committee of Congress authorized to have the information" are substituted for "the duly authorized committees of the Congress" for clarity.
49 U.S.C. § 47124 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 471 / Subchapter I / Section 47124: Agreements for State and local operation of airport facilities
Agreements for State and local operation of airport facilities
Status: in_force

(a) Government Relief From Liability.—The Secretary of Transportation shall ensure that an agreement under this subchapter with a qualified entity (as determined by the Secretary), State, or a political subdivision of a State to allow the entity, State, or subdivision to operate an airport facility relieves the United States Government from any liability arising out of, or related to, acts or omissions of employees of the entity, State, or subdivision in operating the airport facility.

(b) Air Traffic Control Contract Program.—

(1) Contract tower program.—

(A) Continuation.—The Secretary shall continue the low activity (Visual Flight Rules) level I air traffic control tower contract program established under subsection (a) of this section for towers existing on December 30, 1987, and extend the program to other towers as practicable.

(B) Special rule.—If the Secretary determines that a tower already operating under the Contract Tower Program has a benefit-to-cost ratio of less than 1.0, the airport sponsor or State or local government having jurisdiction over the airport shall not be required to pay the portion of the costs that exceeds the benefit—

(i) for the 1-year period after such determination is made; or

(ii) if an appeal of such determination is requested, for the 1-year period described in subsection (d)(4)(D).

(C) Use of excess funds.—If the Secretary finds that all or part of an amount made available to carry out the program continued under this paragraph is not required during a fiscal year, the Secretary may use, during such fiscal year, the amount not so required to carry out the Cost-share Program.

(2) General authority.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary may make a contract with a qualified entity (as determined by the Secretary) or, on a sole source basis, with a State or a political subdivision of a State to allow the entity, State, or subdivision to operate an airport traffic control tower classified as a level I (Visual Flight Rules) tower if the Secretary decides that the entity, State, or subdivision has the capability to comply with the requirements of this paragraph. The contract shall require that the entity, State, or subdivision comply with applicable safety regulations in operating the facility and with applicable competition requirements in making a subcontract to perform work to carry out the contract.

(B) Small or medium hub airports.—In the case of a contract entered into on or after the date of enactment of this subparagraph to operate an airport traffic control tower at a small or medium hub airport, the contract shall require the Secretary, after coordination with the airport sponsor and the entity, State, or subdivision, and not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, to provide funding sufficient for the cost of wages and benefits of at least 2 air traffic controllers for each tower operating shift.

(3) Cost-share program.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary shall establish a program to contract for air traffic control services at nonapproach control towers, as defined by the Secretary, that do not qualify for the Contract Tower Program.

(B) Program components.—In carrying out the Cost-share Program, the Secretary shall—

(i) utilize for purposes of cost-benefit analyses, current, actual, site-specific data, forecast estimates, or airport master plan data provided by a facility owner or operator and verified by the Secretary; and

(ii) approve for participation only facilities willing to fund a pro rata share of the operating costs of the air traffic control tower to achieve a 1-to-1 benefit-to-cost ratio using actual site-specific contract tower operating costs in any case in which there is an operating air traffic control tower or a remote air traffic control tower equipment that has received System Design Approval from the Federal Aviation Administration, as required for eligibility under the Contract Tower Program.

(C) Priority.—In selecting facilities to participate in the Cost-share Program, the Secretary shall give priority to the following facilities:

(i) Air traffic control towers that are participating in the Contract Tower Program but have been notified that they will be terminated from such program because the Secretary has determined that the benefit-to-cost ratio for their continuation in such program is less than 1.0.

(ii) Air traffic control towers that the Secretary determines have a benefit-to-cost ratio of at least .50.

(iii) Air traffic control towers of the Federal Aviation Administration that are closed as a result of the air traffic controllers strike in 1981.

(iv) Air traffic control towers located at airports or points at which an air carrier is receiving compensation under the essential air service program under this chapter.

(v) Air traffic control towers located at airports that are prepared to assume partial responsibility for maintenance costs.

(vi) Air traffic control towers located at airports with safety or operational problems related to topography, weather, runway configuration, or mix of aircraft.

(vii) Air traffic control towers located at an airport at which the community has been operating the tower at its own expense.

(viii) Air traffic control towers at airports with safety or operational problems related to the lack of an existing tower.

(ix) Air traffic control towers at airports with projected commercial and military increases in aircraft or flight operations.

(x) Air traffic control towers at airports with a variety of aircraft operations, including a variety of commercial and military flight operations.

(D) Costs exceeding benefits.—If the costs of operating an air traffic tower under the Cost-share Program exceed the benefits, the airport sponsor or State or local government having jurisdiction over the airport shall pay the portion of the costs that exceed such benefit, with the maximum allowable local cost share capped at 20 percent. Airports with air service provided under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and more than 25,000 passenger enplanements in calendar year 2014 shall be exempt from any cost-share requirement under this paragraph.

(E) Funding.—Of the amounts appropriated pursuant to section 106(k)(1), not more than $10,350,000 for each of fiscal years 2012 through 2018 may be used to carry out this paragraph.

(F) Use of excess funds.—If the Secretary finds that all or part of an amount made available under this paragraph is not required during a fiscal year, the Secretary may use, during such fiscal year, the amount not so required to carry out the Contract Tower Program.

(G) Benefit-to-cost calculation.—Not later than 90 days after receiving an application to the Contract Tower Program, the Secretary shall calculate a benefit-to-cost ratio (as described in subsection (d)) for the applicable air traffic control tower for purposes of selecting towers for participation in the Contract Tower Program.

(H) Period for completion of an operational readiness inspection.—The Secretary shall provide airport sponsors acting in good faith 7 years to complete an operational readiness inspection after receiving a benefit-to-cost ratio of air traffic control services for an airport.

(4) Construction of air traffic control towers.—

(A) Grants.—The Secretary may provide grants to a sponsor of—

(i) a primary airport—

(I) from amounts made available under sections 47114(c)(1) and 47114(c)(2) for the construction or improvement of a nonapproach control tower, as defined by the Secretary, and for the acquisition and installation of air traffic control, communications, and related equipment to be used in that tower;

(II) from amounts made available under sections 47114(c)(1) and 47114(c)(2) for reimbursement for the cost of construction or improvement of a nonapproach control tower, as defined by the Secretary, incurred after October 1, 1996, if the sponsor complied with the requirements of sections 47107(e), 47112(b), and 47112(c) in constructing or improving that tower; and

(III) from amounts made available under sections 47114(c)(1) and 47114(c)(2) for reimbursement for the cost of acquiring and installing in that tower air traffic control, communications, and related equipment that was acquired or installed after October 1, 1996, including remote air traffic control tower equipment certified by the Federal Aviation Administration or remote air traffic control tower equipment that has received System Design Approval from the Federal Aviation Administration; and

(ii) a public-use airport that is not a primary airport—

(I) from amounts made available under subsections (c) and (d) of section 47114 for the construction or improvement of a nonapproach control tower, as defined by the Secretary, and for the acquisition and installation of air traffic control, communications, and related equipment to be used in that tower;

(II) from amounts made available under sections 47114(c) and 47114(d)(2)(A) for reimbursement for the cost of construction or improvement of a nonapproach control tower, as defined by the Secretary, incurred after October 1, 1996, if the sponsor complied with the requirements of sections 47107(e), 47112(b), and 47112(c) in constructing or improving that tower; and

(III) from amounts made available under sections 47114(c) and 47114(d)(2)(A) for reimbursement for the cost of acquiring and installing in that tower air traffic control, communications, and related equipment that was acquired or installed after October 1, 1996, including remote air traffic control tower equipment certified by the Federal Aviation Administration or remote air traffic control tower equipment that has received System Design Approval from the Federal Aviation Administration.

(B) Eligibility.—An airport sponsor shall be eligible for a grant under this paragraph only if—

(i)(I) the sponsor is a participant in the Federal Aviation Administration Contract Tower Program or the Cost-share Program; or

(II) construction of a nonapproach control tower would qualify the sponsor to be eligible to participate in such program;

(ii) the sponsor certifies that it will pay not less than 10 percent of the cost of the activities for which the sponsor is receiving assistance under this paragraph;

(iii) the Secretary affirmatively accepts the proposed contract tower into a contract tower program under this section and certifies that the Secretary will seek future appropriations to pay the Federal Aviation Administration's cost of the contract to operate the tower to be constructed under this paragraph;

(iv) the sponsor certifies that it will pay its share of the cost of the contract to operate the tower to be constructed under this paragraph; and

(v) in the case of a tower to be constructed under this paragraph from amounts made available under section 47114(d)(2)(B), the Secretary certifies that—

(I) the Federal Aviation Administration has consulted the State within the borders of which the tower is to be constructed and the State supports the construction of the tower as part of its State airport capital plan; and

(II) the selection of the tower for funding is based on objective criteria.

(c) Safety Audits.—The Secretary shall establish uniform standards and requirements for regular safety assessments of air traffic control towers that receive funding under this section.

(d) Criteria To Evaluate Participants.—

(1) Timing of evaluations.—

(A) Towers participating in cost-share program.—In the case of an air traffic control tower that is operated under the Cost-share Program, the Secretary shall annually calculate a benefit-to-cost ratio with respect to the tower.

(B) Towers participating in contract tower program.—In the case of an air traffic control tower that is operated under the Contract Tower Program, the Secretary shall not calculate a benefit-to-cost ratio after the date of enactment of this subsection with respect to the tower unless the Secretary determines that the annual aircraft traffic at the airport where the tower is located has decreased—

(i) by more than 25 percent from the previous year; or

(ii) by more than 55 percent cumulatively in the preceding 3-year period.

(2) Costs to be considered.—In establishing a benefit-to-cost ratio under this section with respect to an air traffic control tower, the Secretary shall consider only the following costs:

(A) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual cost of wages and benefits of personnel working at the tower.

(B) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual telecommunications costs directly associated with the tower.

(C) The Federal Aviation Administration's costs of purchasing and installing any air traffic control equipment that would not have been purchased or installed except as a result of the operation of the tower.

(D) The Federal Aviation Administration's actual travel costs associated with maintaining air traffic control equipment that is owned by the Administration and would not be maintained except as a result of the operation of the tower.

(E) Other actual costs of the Federal Aviation Administration directly associated with the tower that would not be incurred except as a result of the operation of the tower (excluding costs for noncontract tower-related personnel and equipment, even if the personnel or equipment is located in the contract tower building).

(3) Other criteria to be considered.—In establishing a benefit-to-cost ratio under this section with respect to an air traffic control tower, the Secretary shall add a 10 percentage point margin of error to the benefit-to-cost ratio determination to acknowledge and account for the direct and indirect economic and other benefits that are not included in the criteria the Secretary used in calculating that ratio.

(4) Review of cost-benefit determinations.—In issuing a benefit-to-cost ratio determination under this section with respect to an air traffic control tower located at an airport, the Secretary shall implement the following procedures:

(A) The Secretary shall provide the airport (or the State or local government having jurisdiction over the airport) at least 90 days following the date of receipt of the determination to submit to the Secretary a request for an appeal of the determination, together with updated or additional data in support of the appeal.

(B) Upon receipt of a request for an appeal submitted pursuant to subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall—

(i) transmit to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration any updated or additional data submitted in support of the appeal; and

(ii) provide the Administrator not more than 90 days to review the data and provide a response to the Secretary based on the review.

(C) After receiving a response from the Administrator pursuant to subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall—

(i) provide the airport, State, or local government that requested the appeal at least 30 days to review the response; and

(ii) withhold from taking further action in connection with the appeal during that 30-day period.

(D) If, after completion of the appeal procedures with respect to the determination, the Secretary requires the tower to transition into the Cost-share Program, the Secretary shall not require a cost-share payment from the airport, State, or local government for 1 year following the last day of the 30-day period described in subparagraph (C).

(e) Definitions.—In this section:

(1) Contract tower program.—The term "Contract Tower Program" means the level I air traffic control tower contract program established under subsection (a) and continued under subsection (b)(1).

(2) Cost-share program.—The term "Cost-share Program" means the cost-share program established under subsection (b)(3).

(f) Improving Controller Situational Awareness.—

(1) In general.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall allow air traffic controllers at towers operated under the Contract Tower Program to use approved advanced equipment and technologies to improve operational situational awareness, including Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System radar displays, Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast, Flight Data Input/Output, and Automatic Terminal Information System.

(2) Installation and maintenance.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall allow airports to—

(A) procure a Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System or any equivalent system through the Federal Aviation Administration, and install and maintain such system using Administration services; or

(B) purchase a Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System, or any equivalent system, and install and maintain such system using services directly from an original equipment manufacturer.

(3) Requirements.—To help facilitate the integration of the equipment and technology described in paragraph (1), the Secretary—

(A) shall establish minimum performance and technical standards that ensure the safe use of equipment and technology, including commercial radar displays capable of displaying primary and secondary radar targets, for use by controllers in contract towers to improve situational awareness;

(B) shall identify approved vendors for such equipment and technology, to the maximum extent practicable;

(C) shall establish, in consultation with contract tower operators, an appropriate training program to periodically train air traffic controllers employed by such operators to ensure proper and efficient integration and use of the situational awareness equipment and technology described in paragraph (1) into contract tower operations;

(D) may add Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System equipment or any equivalent system to the minimum level of equipage necessary for Federal contract towers to perform the function of such towers, as applicable; and

(E) shall require that any technology, system, or equipment procured pursuant to this subsection be procured using non-Federal funds, except as made available under a grant issued pursuant to 47124(b)(4).1

(g) Liability Insurance.—

(1) In general.—Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall consult with aviation industry experts, including air traffic control contractors and aviation insurance professionals, to determine adequate limits of liability for the Contract Tower Program.

(2) Interim steps.—Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this subsection and until the Secretary makes a determination on liability limits under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall require air traffic control contractors to have excess liability insurance (as determined by the Secretary) to ensure continuity of such coverage should a major accident occur.

(3) Briefing.—Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Commerce,2 Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the findings, conclusions, and actions taken and planned to be taken to carry out this subsection.

(h) Milestones for Design Approval of Remote Towers.—

(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall create a program and publish milestones to achieve system design and operational approval for a remote tower system.

(2) Requirements.—In carrying out paragraph (1), the Administrator shall—

(A) rely on support from the Office of Airports of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Air Traffic Organization of the Federal Aviation Administration, including the Air Traffic Services Service Unit and the Technical Operations Service Unit;

(B) consult with relevant stakeholders, as the Administrator determines appropriate;

(C) establish requirements for the system design and operational approval of remote towers, including—

(i) visual siting processes and requirements for electro-optical sensors;

(ii) datalink latency requirements;

(iii) visual presentation design requirements for monitors used to display sensor and camera feeds; and

(iv) any other wireless telecommunications infrastructure requirements to enable the operation of such towers;

(D) use a safety risk management panel process to address any safety issues with respect to a remote tower;

(E) if a remote tower is intended to be installed at a non-towered airport, assess the safety benefits of the remote tower against the lack of an existing tower;

(F) allow the use of surface surveillance technology, either standalone or integrated into the visual automation platform, as a situational awareness tool;

(G) establish protocols for contingency operations and procedures in the event of remote tower technology failures and malfunctions; and

(H) support active testing of a remote tower system that has achieved system design approval by the William J. Hughes Technical Center at an airport that has installed remote tower infrastructure to support such system.

(3) System design approval and evaluation process.—Not later than December 31, 2024, the Administrator shall expand the system design approval and evaluation process for a digital or remote tower system to not less than 3 airports at which a digital or remote tower will be installed or operated at airports not located at the William J. Hughes Technical Center and using the criteria under section 161 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (49 U.S.C. 47104 note), to the extent the Administrator has willing technology providers and airports interested in the installation and operation of such towers.

(4) Preservation of existing design approvals.—Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to invalidate any system design approval activity carried out by the William J. Hughes Technical Center prior to the date of enactment of this subsection.

(5) Prioritization for remote tower certification.—In carrying out the program established under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall prioritize system design and operational approval for a remote tower system at—

(A) airports that do not have a permanent air traffic control tower at the time of application;

(B) airports that would provide small and rural community air service; or

(C) airports that have been newly accepted as of the date of enactment of this subsection into the Contract Tower Program.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1276; Pub. L. 106–181, title I, §131, Apr. 5, 2000, 114 Stat. 78; Pub. L. 108–7, div. I, title III, §370(b)(1), (2), Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 425, 426; Pub. L. 108–176, title I, §105, Dec. 12, 2003, 117 Stat. 2498; Pub. L. 112–55, div. C, title I, §119, Nov. 18, 2011, 125 Stat. 649; Pub. L. 112–95, title I, §147, Feb. 14, 2012, 126 Stat. 30; Pub. L. 113–76, div. L, title I, §118, Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 581; Pub. L. 113–235, div. K, title I, §118, Dec. 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2704; Pub. L. 114–55, title I, §102(c), Sept. 30, 2015, 129 Stat. 523; Pub. L. 114–141, title I, §102(c), Mar. 30, 2016, 130 Stat. 323; Pub. L. 114–190, title I, §1102(c), July 15, 2016, 130 Stat. 617; Pub. L. 115–63, title I, §102(d), Sept. 29, 2017, 131 Stat. 1169; Pub. L. 115–141, div. M, title I, §102(c), Mar. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 1046; Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title I, §133(a)–(c), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3206–3208; Pub. L. 118–63, title VI, §§620, 621(a), (c), 625(b), (c), title VII, §712(c)(2), title XI, §1101(v), May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1234, 1235, 1237, 1242, 1256, 1414.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

47124(a)
49 App.:2222.
Sept. 3, 1982, Pub. L. 97–248, §526, 96 Stat. 698.

47124(b)(1)
49 App.:2222 (note).
Dec. 30, 1987, Pub. L. 100–223, §306, 101 Stat. 1526.

47124(b)(2)
49 App.:1344(h).
Aug. 23, 1958, Pub. L. 85–726, 72 Stat. 747, §303(h); added Oct. 31, 1992, Pub. L. 102–581, §201(a), 106 Stat. 4890.

In subsection (a), the words "In the powers granted under section 2218 of this Appendix" and "contract or other" are omitted as surplus. The word "relieves" is substituted for "contain, among others, a provision relieving", and the words "from any liability arising out of, or related to" are substituted for "of any and all liability for the payment of any claim or other obligation arising out of or in connection with", to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (b)(1), the words "in effect" are omitted as surplus. The words "on December 30, 1987" are added for clarity.

In subsection (b)(2), the word "Secretary" is substituted for "Administrator" for consistency in the chapter.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of this subparagraph, referred to in subsec. (b)(2)(B), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 118–63, which was approved May 16, 2024.

The date of enactment of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, referred to in subsec. (b)(2)(B), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 118–63, which was approved May 16, 2024.

The date of enactment of this subsection, referred to in subsec. (d)(1)(B), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 115–254, which was approved Oct. 5, 2018.

The date of enactment of this subsection, referred to in subsecs. (f)(1), (2), (g), and (h)(1), (4), (5)(C), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 118–63, which was approved May 16, 2024.

Section 161 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, referred to in subsec. (h)(3), is section 161 of Pub. L. 115–254, which is set out as a note under section 47104 of this title.

Amendments

2024—Subsec. (b)(1)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 118–63, §1101(v), struck out second period at end.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 118–63, §625(b), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A), inserted heading, and added subpar. (B).

Subsec. (b)(3)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 118–63, §621(c)(1), inserted "or a remote air traffic control tower equipment that has received System Design Approval from the Federal Aviation Administration" after "an operating air traffic control tower".

Subsec. (b)(3)(C)(viii) to (x). Pub. L. 118–63, §625(c), added cls. (viii) to (x).

Subsec. (b)(3)(H). Pub. L. 118–63, §620(1), added subpar. (H).

Subsec. (b)(4)(A)(i)(III). Pub. L. 118–63, §621(c)(2)(A), inserted "or remote air traffic control tower equipment that has received System Design Approval from the Federal Aviation Administration" after "certified by the Federal Aviation Administration".

Subsec. (b)(4)(A)(ii)(I). Pub. L. 118–63, §712(c)(2)(A)(i), substituted "subsections (c) and (d) of section 47114" for "sections 47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)".

Subsec. (b)(4)(A)(ii)(II). Pub. L. 118–63, §712(c)(2)(A)(ii), substituted "sections 47114(c) and 47114(d)(2)(A)" for "sections 47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)(3)(A)".

Subsec. (b)(4)(A)(ii)(III). Pub. L. 118–63, §712(c)(2)(A)(iii), substituted "sections 47114(c) and 47114(d)(2)(A)" for "sections 47114(c)(2) and 47114(d)(3)(A)".

Pub. L. 118–63, §621(c)(2)(B), inserted "or remote air traffic control tower equipment that has received System Design Approval from the Federal Aviation Administration" after "certified by the Federal Aviation Administration".

Subsec. (b)(4)(B)(v). Pub. L. 118–63, §712(c)(2)(B), substituted "section 47114(d)(2)(B)" for "section 47114(d)(2) or 47114(d)(3)(B)".

Subsecs. (f), (g). Pub. L. 118–63, §620(2), added subsecs. (f) and (g).

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 118–63, §621(a)(1), added subsec. (h).

2018—Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(a)(1), substituted "under the Contract Tower Program" for "under the program continued under this paragraph" and "exceeds the benefit—" and cls. (i) and (ii) for "exceeds the benefit for a period of 18 months after such determination is made".

Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(c)(1), substituted "the Cost-share Program" for "the program established under paragraph (3)".

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(c)(2)(A), substituted "Cost-share program" for "Contract air traffic control tower program" in heading.

Subsec. (b)(3)(A). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(c)(2)(B), substituted "Contract Tower Program" for "contract tower program established under subsection (a) and continued under paragraph (1) (in this paragraph referred to as the 'Contract Tower Program')".

Subsec. (b)(3)(B). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(c)(2)(C), substituted "In carrying out the Cost-share Program" for "In carrying out the program" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(3)(C). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(c)(2)(D), substituted "participate in the Cost-share Program" for "participate in the program" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(3)(D). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(a)(2), substituted "under the Cost-share Program" for "under the program" and inserted at end "Airports with air service provided under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, and more than 25,000 passenger enplanements in calendar year 2014 shall be exempt from any cost-share requirement under this paragraph."

Subsec. (b)(3)(E). Pub. L. 115–141 substituted "2012 through 2018" for "2012 through 2017 and not more than $5,160,822 for the period beginning on October 1, 2017, and ending on March 31, 2018,".

Subsec. (b)(3)(F). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(c)(2)(E), substituted "the Contract Tower Program" for "the program continued under paragraph (1)".

Subsec. (b)(3)(G). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(a)(4), added subpar. (G).

Subsec. (b)(4)(A)(i)(III), (ii)(III). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(a)(3)(A), inserted ", including remote air traffic control tower equipment certified by the Federal Aviation Administration" after "1996".

Subsec. (b)(4)(B)(i)(I). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(a)(3)(B), substituted "Contract Tower Program or the Cost-share Program" for "contract tower program established under subsection (a) and continued under paragraph (1) or the pilot program established under paragraph (3)".

Subsec. (b)(4)(C). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(a)(3)(C), struck out subpar. (C). Text read as follows: "The Federal share of the cost of construction of a nonapproach control tower under this paragraph may not exceed $2,000,000."

Subsecs. (d), (e). Pub. L. 115–254, §133(b), added subsecs. (d) and (e).

2017—Subsec. (b)(3)(E). Pub. L. 115–63 inserted "and not more than $5,160,822 for the period beginning on October 1, 2017, and ending on March 31, 2018," after "fiscal years 2012 through 2017".

2016—Subsec. (b)(3)(E). Pub. L. 114–190 substituted "fiscal years 2012 through 2017" for "fiscal years 2012 through 2015 and not more than $8,193,750 for the period beginning on October 1, 2015, and ending on July 15, 2016,".

Pub. L. 114–141 substituted "$8,193,750 for the period beginning on October 1, 2015, and ending on July 15, 2016," for "$5,175,000 for the period beginning on October 1, 2015, and ending on March 31, 2016,".

2015—Subsec. (b)(3)(E). Pub. L. 114–55 inserted "and not more than $5,175,000 for the period beginning on October 1, 2015, and ending on March 31, 2016," after "fiscal years 2012 through 2015".

2014—Subsec. (b)(3)(D). Pub. L. 113–76 and Pub. L. 113–235, which identically directed substitution of "benefit, with the maximum allowable local cost share capped at 20 percent." for "benefit.", could not be executed because of the prior amendment by Pub. L. 112–55. See 2011 Amendment note below.

2012—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 112–95, §147(a)(1), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A), inserted par. and subpar. headings, and added subpars. (B) and (C).

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 112–95, §147(a)(2), inserted heading.

Subsec. (b)(3)(E), (F). Pub. L. 112–95, §147(b), added subpars. (E) and (F) and struck out former subpar. (E). Prior to amendment, text of subpar. (E) read as follows: "Of the amounts appropriated pursuant to section 106(k), not more than $6,500,000 for fiscal 2004, $7,000,000 for fiscal year 2005, $7,500,000 for fiscal year 2006, and $8,000,000 for fiscal year 2007 may be used to carry out this paragraph."

Subsec. (b)(4)(C). Pub. L. 112–95, §147(c), substituted "$2,000,000" for "$1,500,000".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 112–95, §147(d), added subsec. (c).

2011—Subsec. (b)(3)(D). Pub. L. 112–55 substituted "benefit, with the maximum allowable local cost share capped at 20 percent." for "benefit."

2003—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–176, §105(1), added subsec. (a) and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (a). Text read as follows: "The Secretary of Transportation shall ensure that an agreement under this subchapter with a State or a political subdivision of a State to allow the State or subdivision to operate an airport facility in the State or subdivision relieves the United States Government from any liability arising out of, or related to, acts or omissions of employees of the State or subdivision in operating the airport facility."

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 108–176, §105(2), added par. (2) and struck out former par. (2) which read as follows: "The Secretary may make a contract, on a sole source basis, with a State or a political subdivision of a State to allow the State or subdivision to operate an airport traffic control tower classified as a level I (Visual Flight Rules) tower if the Secretary decides that the State or subdivision has the capability to comply with the requirements of this paragraph. The contract shall require that the State or subdivision comply with applicable safety regulations in operating the facility and with applicable competition requirements in making a subcontract to perform work to carry out the contract."

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 108–176, §105(3)(A), (B), struck out "pilot" before "program" in par. heading, before "program to contract" in subpar. (A), before "program, the Secretary" in subpars. (B) and (C), and before "program exceed" in subpar. (D).

Subsec. (b)(3)(A). Pub. L. 108–7, §370(b)(2)(A), substituted "nonapproach control towers, as defined by the Secretary," for "Level I air traffic control towers, as defined by the Secretary,".

Subsec. (b)(3)(E). Pub. L. 108–176, §105(3)(C), substituted "$6,500,000 for fiscal 2004, $7,000,000 for fiscal year 2005, $7,500,000 for fiscal year 2006, and $8,000,000 for fiscal year 2007" for "$6,000,000 per fiscal year".

Pub. L. 108–7, §370(b)(2)(B), substituted "Of" for "Subject to paragraph (4)(D), of".

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 108–7, §370(b)(1), reenacted heading without change and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, par. authorized the Secretary to provide grants under this subchapter to not more than two airport sponsors for the construction of a low-level activity visual flight rule (level 1) air traffic control tower.

Subsec. (b)(4)(C). Pub. L. 108–176, §105(4), substituted "$1,500,000" for "$1,100,000".

2000—Subsec. (b)(3), (4). Pub. L. 106–181 added pars. (3) and (4).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2003 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 108–176 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 2003, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 3 of Pub. L. 108–176, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 106–181 applicable only to fiscal years beginning after Sept. 30, 1999, see section 3 of Pub. L. 106–181, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.

Savings Provision

Pub. L. 108–7, div. I, title III, §370(b)(3), Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 426, provided that: "Notwithstanding the amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 47102 of this title], the towers for which assistance is being provided on the day before the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 20, 2003] under section 47124(b)(4) of title 49, United States Code, as in effect on such day, may continue to be provided such assistance under the terms of such section."

FAA Contract Tower Workforce Audit

Pub. L. 118–63, title VI, §605, May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1224, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act [May 16, 2024], the inspector general of the Department of Transportation shall initiate an audit of the workforce needs of the Contract Tower Program, as established under section 47124 of title 49, United States Code.

"(b) Contents.—In conducting the audit required under subsection (a), the inspector general shall, at a minimum—

"(1) review the assumptions and methodologies used in assessing FAA [Federal Aviation Administration] contract towers staffing levels and determine the adequacy of staffing levels at such towers;

"(2) evaluate the supply and demand of trained and certificated personnel prepared for work and such towers;

"(3) examine efforts to establish an air traffic controller training program or curriculum to allow contract tower contractors to conduct—

"(A) initial training of controller candidates employed or soon to be employed by such contractors who do not have a Control Tower Operator certificate or a FAA tower credential;

"(B) any initial training for controller candidates who have completed an approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program from an accredited school that has a demonstrated successful curriculum; or

"(C) on-the-job training of such candidates described in subparagraphs (A) or (B);

"(4) assess whether establishing pathways to allow contract tower contractors to use the air traffic technical training academy of the FAA, or other means such as higher educational institutions, to provide initial technical training for air traffic controllers employed by such contractors could improve the workforce needs of the contract tower program and any related impact such training may have on air traffic controller staffing more broadly; and

"(5) consult with the exclusive bargaining representative of the air traffic controllers certified under section 7111 of title 5, United States Code.

"(c) Report.—Not later than 90 days after the completion of the audit under subsection (a), the inspector general shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report on the findings of such audit and any recommendations as a result of such audit.

"(d) Implementation.—The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall take such actions as are necessary to implement any recommendations included in the report required under subsection (c) with which the Administrator concurs.

"(e) Rule of Construction.—Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as a delegation of authority by the Administrator to air traffic control contractors for the purposes of issuing initial certifications to air traffic controllers."

Air Traffic Control Tower Safety

Pub. L. 118–63, title VI, §606, May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1225, provided that: "In designing, adopting a design, or constructing an air traffic control tower based on a previously adopted design, the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall prioritize the safety of the national airspace system, the safety of employees of the Administration, the operational reliability of such air traffic control tower, and the costs of such tower."

Federal Contract Tower Wage Determinations and Positions

Pub. L. 118–63, title VI, §611, May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1226, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall request that the Secretary of Labor—

"(1) review and update, as necessary, including to account for cost-of-living adjustments, the basis for the wage determination for air traffic controllers who are employed at air traffic control towers operated under the Contract Tower Program established under section 47124 of title 49, United States Code;

"(2) reassess the basis for air traffic controller occupation codes;

"(3) create a new wage determination category or occupation code for managers of air traffic controllers who are employed at air traffic control towers operated under the Contract Tower Program; and

"(4) consult with the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] in carrying out the requirements of paragraphs (1) through (3).

"(b) Report.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [May 16, 2024], the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report that includes—

"(1) a description of the findings and conclusions of the review and reassessment made under subsection (a);

"(2) an explanation of and justification for the basis for the wage determination; and

"(3) a description of the actions taken by the Department of Transportation and the Department of Labor to ensure that contract tower air traffic controller wages are adjusted for inflation and are assigned the appropriate occupation codes."

List of Replaced Air Traffic Control Tower Facilities

Pub. L. 118–63, title VI, §624(c), May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1241, provided that: "The Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall establish, maintain, and publish on the website of the FAA [Federal Aviation Administration] a list of the following:

"(1) All air traffic control tower facilities replaced within the 10-year period preceding the date of enactment of this Act [May 16, 2024].

"(2) Any air traffic control tower facilities for which the Administrator has made a determination requiring replacement, but for which such replacement has not yet been completed."

Pilot Program for Transitioning to FAA Towers

Pub. L. 118–63, title VI, §625(a), May 16, 2024, 138 Stat. 1241, provided that:

"(1) In general.—Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act [May 16, 2024], the Administrator [of the Federal Aviation Administration] shall establish a pilot program to convert high-activity air traffic control towers operating under the Contract Tower Program as established under section 47124 of title 49, United States Code, (in this section referred to as the 'Contract Tower Program') to a level I (Visual Flight Rules) tower staffed by the FAA [Federal Aviation Administration].

"(2) Priority.—In selecting air traffic control towers to participate in the pilot program established under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall prioritize air traffic control towers operating under the Contract Tower Program that—

"(A) either—

"(i) had over 200,000 annual tower operations in calendar year 2022; or

"(ii) served a small hub airport with more than 900,000 passenger enplanements in calendar year 2021;

"(B) are either currently owned by the FAA or are constructed to FAA standards; and

"(C) operate within complex airspace, including airspace that serves air carrier, general aviation, and military aircraft.

"(3) Tower selection.—The number of air traffic control towers selected to participate in the pilot program established under paragraph (1) shall be determined based on the availability of funds for the pilot program and the interest of the airport sponsor related to such facility.

"(4) Controller retention.—With respect to any high-activity air traffic control tower selected to be converted under the pilot program established under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall appoint to the position of air traffic controller any air traffic controller who—

"(A) is employed at such air traffic control tower as of the date on which the Administrator selects such tower to be converted;

"(B) meets the qualifications contained in section 44506(f)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code; and

"(C) has all other pre-employment qualifications required by law to be a certified controller of the FAA.

"(5) Safety analysis.—

"(A) In general.—The Administrator shall conduct a safety analysis to determine whether the conversion of any air traffic control tower described in paragraph (1) negatively impacts aviation safety at such air traffic control tower and take such actions needed to address any negative impact.

"(B) Report.—Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives] a report describing the results of the safety analysis under subparagraph (A), any actions taken to address any negative impacts to safety, and the overall results of the pilot program established under this subsection.

"(6) Authorization of appropriations.—Out of amounts made available under section 106(k) of title 49, United States Code, there is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection $30,000,000 to remain available for 5 fiscal years."

Approval of Certain Applications for the Contract Tower Program

Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title I, §133(d), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3209, provided that:

"(1) In general.—If the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration has not implemented a revised cost-benefit methodology for purposes of determining eligibility for the Contract Tower Program before the date that is 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], any airport with an application for participation in the Contract Tower Program pending as of January 1, 2017, shall be approved for participation in the Contract Tower Program if the Administrator determines the tower is eligible under the criteria set forth in the Federal Aviation Administration report entitled 'Establishment and Discontinuance Criteria for Airport Traffic Control Towers', and dated August 1990 (FAA–APO–90–7).

"(2) Requests for additional authority.—The Administrator shall respond not later than 60 days after the date the Administrator receives a formal request from an airport and air traffic control contractor for additional authority to expand contract tower operational hours and staff to accommodate flight traffic outside of current tower operational hours.

"(3) Definition of contract tower program.—In this section [probably means "subsection"], the term 'Contract Tower Program' has the meaning given the term in section 47124(e) of title 49, United States Code, as added by this Act."

Nonapproach Control Towers

Pub. L. 108–7, div. I, title III, §370(c), Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 426, provided that:

"(1) In general.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may enter into a lease agreement or contract agreement with a private entity to provide for construction and operation of a nonapproach control tower as defined by the Secretary of Transportation.

"(2) Terms and conditions.—An agreement entered into under this section—

"(A) shall be negotiated under such procedures as the Administrator considers necessary to ensure the integrity of the selection process, the safety of air travel, and to protect the interests of the United States;

"(B) may provide a lease option to the United States, to be exercised at the discretion of the Administrator, to occupy any general-purpose space in a facility covered by the agreement;

"(C) shall not require, unless specifically determined otherwise by the Administrator, Federal ownership of a facility covered under the agreement after the expiration of the agreement;

"(D) shall describe the consideration, duties, and responsibilities for which the United States and the private entity are responsible;

"(E) shall provide that the United States will not be liable for any action, debt, or liability of any entity created by the agreement;

"(F) shall provide that the private entity may not execute any instrument or document creating or evidencing any indebtedness with respect to a facility covered by the agreement unless such instrument or document specifically disclaims any liability of the United States under the instrument or document; and

"(G) shall include such other terms and conditions as the Administrator considers appropriate."

Use of Apportionments To Pay Non-Federal Share of Operation Costs

Pub. L. 108–7, div. I, title III, §370(d), Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 427, provided that:

"(1) Study.—The Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a study of the feasibility, costs, and benefits of allowing the sponsor of an airport to use not to exceed 10 percent of amounts apportioned to the sponsor under section 47114 to pay the non-Federal share of the cost of operation of an air traffic control tower under section 47124(b) of title 49, United States Code.

"(2) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Feb. 20, 2003], the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the study."

Contract Tower Assistance

Pub. L. 103–305, title V, §508, Aug. 23, 1994, 108 Stat. 1596, provided that: "The Secretary shall take appropriate action to assist communities where the Secretary deems such assistance appropriate in obtaining the installation of a Level I Contract Tower for those communities."

1 So in original. Probably should be preceded by "section".

2 So in original. Probably should be preceded by "Committee on".
49 U.S.C. § 30503 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 305 / Section 30503: State participation
State participation
Status: in_force

(a) State Information.—Each State shall make titling information maintained by that State available for use in operating the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System established or designated under section 30502 of this title.

(b) Verification Checks.—Each State shall establish a practice of performing an instant title verification check before issuing a certificate of title to an individual or entity claiming to have purchased an automobile from an individual or entity in another State. The check shall consist of—

(1) communicating to the operator—

(A) the vehicle identification number of the automobile for which the certificate of title is sought;

(B) the name of the State that issued the most recent certificate of title for the automobile; and

(C) the name of the individual or entity to whom the certificate of title was issued; and

(2) giving the operator an opportunity to communicate to the participating State the results of a search of the information.

(c) Grants to States.—(1) In cooperation with the States and not later than January 1, 1994, the Attorney General shall—

(A) conduct a review of systems used by the States to compile and maintain information about the titling of automobiles; and

(B) determine for each State the cost of making titling information maintained by that State available to the operator to meet the requirements of section 30502(d) of this title.

(2) The Attorney General may make reasonable and necessary grants to participating States to be used in making titling information maintained by those States available to the operator.

(d) Report to Congress.—Not later than October 1, 1998, the Attorney General shall report to Congress on which States have met the requirements of this section. If a State has not met the requirements, the Attorney General shall describe the impediments that have resulted in the State's failure to meet the requirements.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 981; Pub. L. 104–152, §§2(b), (c), 3(a), 6(a), July 2, 1996, 110 Stat. 1384, 1385; Pub. L. 105–102, §3(b), Nov. 20, 1997, 111 Stat. 2215.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

30503(a)
15:2043(a)(1).
Oct. 25, 1992, Pub. L. 102–519, §203, 106 Stat. 3391.

30503(b)
15:2043(a)(2).

30503(c)
15:2043(b).

30503(d)
15:2043(c).

In subsection (a), the words "for use in operating . . . established or designated" are substituted for "for use in establishing . . . established" for clarity and for consistency with the source provisions restated in section 30502 of the revised title.

In subsection (b), before clause (1), the words "The check" are substituted for "Such instant title verification check" to eliminate unnecessary words. In subclauses (A) and (B), the words "of the automobile" are substituted for "of the vehicle" for consistency in the revised chapter.

In subsection (c)(1)(B), the words "section 30502(d) of this title" are substituted for "subsection (b)" to reflect the apparent intent of Congress.

In subsection (c)(2)(A), before subclause (i), the words "is not more than the lesser of" are substituted for "does not exceed . . . whichever is lower" for clarity. In subclause (i), the words "paragraph (1)(B) of this subsection" are substituted for "subsection (d)(1)(B)" to reflect the apparent intent of Congress.

In subsection (c)(2)(B), the word "fair" is omitted as being included in "reasonable".

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1997—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–102 amended directory language of Pub. L. 104–152, §2(c). See 1996 Amendment note below.

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–152, §2(c), as amended by Pub. L. 105–102, substituted "National Motor Vehicle Title Information System" for "National Automobile Title Information System".

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 104–152, §3(a), substituted "Attorney General" for "Secretary of Transportation".

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 104–152, §6(a), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "The Secretary may make grants to participating States to be used in making titling information maintained by those States available to the operator if—

"(A) the grant to a State is not more than the lesser of—

"(i) 25 percent of the cost of making titling information maintained by that State available to the operator as determined by the Secretary under paragraph (1)(B) of this subsection; or

"(ii) $300,000; and

"(B) the Secretary decides that the grants are reasonable and necessary to establish the System."

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 104–152, §§2(b), 3(a), substituted "October 1, 1998" for "January 1, 1997" and substituted "Attorney General" for "Secretary" in two places.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1997 Amendment

Pub. L. 105–102, §3(b), Nov. 20, 1997, 111 Stat. 2215, provided that the amendment made by section 3(b) is effective July 2, 1996.

Amendment by Pub. L. 105–102 effective as if included in the provisions of the Act to which the amendment relates, see section 3(f) of Pub. L. 105–102, set out as a note under section 106 of this title.
49 U.S.C. § 30120 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 301 / Subchapter II / Section 30120: Remedies for defects and noncompliance
Remedies for defects and noncompliance
Status: in_force

(a) Ways To Remedy.—(1) Subject to subsections (f) and (g) of this section, when notification of a defect or noncompliance is required under section 30118(b) or (c) of this title, the manufacturer of the defective or noncomplying motor vehicle or replacement equipment shall remedy the defect or noncompliance without charge when the vehicle or equipment is presented for remedy. Subject to subsections (b) and (c) of this section, the manufacturer shall remedy the defect or noncompliance in any of the following ways the manufacturer chooses:

(A) if a vehicle—

(i) by repairing the vehicle;

(ii) by replacing the vehicle with an identical or reasonably equivalent vehicle; or

(iii) by refunding the purchase price, less a reasonable allowance for depreciation.

(B) if replacement equipment, by repairing the equipment, replacing the equipment with identical or reasonably equivalent equipment, or by refunding the purchase price.

(2) The Secretary of Transportation may prescribe regulations to allow the manufacturer to impose conditions on the replacement of a motor vehicle or refund of its price.

(b) Tire Remedies.—(1) A manufacturer of a tire, including an original equipment tire, shall remedy a defective or noncomplying tire if the owner or purchaser presents the tire for remedy not later than 180 days after the later of—

(A) the day the owner or purchaser receives notification under section 30119 of this title; or

(B) if the manufacturer decides to replace the tire, the day the owner or purchaser receives notification that a replacement is available.

(2) If the manufacturer decides to replace the tire and the replacement is not available during the 180-day period, the owner or purchaser must present the tire for remedy during a subsequent 180-day period that begins only after the owner or purchaser receives notification that a replacement will be available during the subsequent period. If tires are available during the subsequent period, only a tire presented for remedy during that period must be remedied.

(c) Adequacy of Repairs.—(1) If a manufacturer decides to repair a defective or noncomplying motor vehicle or replacement equipment and the repair is not done adequately within a reasonable time, the manufacturer shall—

(A) replace the vehicle or equipment without charge with an identical or reasonably equivalent vehicle or equipment; or

(B) for a vehicle, refund the purchase price, less a reasonable allowance for depreciation.

(2) Failure to repair a motor vehicle or replacement equipment adequately not later than 60 days after its presentation is prima facie evidence of failure to repair within a reasonable time. However, the Secretary may extend, by order, the 60-day period if good cause for an extension is shown and the reason is published in the Federal Register before the period ends. Presentation of a vehicle or equipment for repair before the date specified by a manufacturer in a notice under section 30119(a)(5) or 30121(c)(2) of this title is not a presentation under this subsection.

(3) If the Secretary determines that a manufacturer's remedy program is not likely to be capable of completion within a reasonable time, the Secretary may require the manufacturer to accelerate the remedy program if the Secretary finds—

(A) that there is a risk of serious injury or death if the remedy program is not accelerated; and

(B) that acceleration of the remedy program can be reasonably achieved by expanding the sources of replacement parts, expanding the number of authorized repair facilities, or both.

The Secretary may prescribe regulations to carry out this paragraph.

(d) Filing Manufacturer's Remedy Program.—A manufacturer shall file with the Secretary a copy of the manufacturer's program under this section for remedying a defect or noncompliance. The Secretary shall make the program available to the public and publish a notice of availability in the Federal Register. A manufacturer's remedy program shall include a plan for reimbursing an owner or purchaser who incurred the cost of the remedy within a reasonable time in advance of the manufacturer's notification under subsection (b) or (c) of section 30118. The Secretary may prescribe regulations establishing what constitutes a reasonable time for purposes of the preceding sentence and other reasonable conditions for the reimbursement plan. In the case of a remedy program involving the replacement of tires, the manufacturer shall include a plan addressing how to prevent, to the extent reasonably within the control of the manufacturer, replaced tires from being resold for installation on a motor vehicle, and how to limit, to the extent reasonably within the control of the manufacturer, the disposal of replaced tires in landfills, particularly through shredding, crumbling, recycling, recovery, and other alternative beneficial non-vehicular uses. The manufacturer shall include information about the implementation of such plan with each quarterly report to the Secretary regarding the progress of any notification or remedy campaigns.

(e) Hearings About Meeting Remedy Requirements.—On the motion of the Secretary or on application by any interested person, the Secretary may conduct a hearing to decide whether the manufacturer has reasonably met the remedy requirements under this section. Any interested person may make written and oral presentations of information, views, and arguments on whether the manufacturer has reasonably met the remedy requirements. If the Secretary decides a manufacturer has not reasonably met the remedy requirements, the Secretary shall order the manufacturer to take specified action to meet those requirements and may take any other action authorized under this chapter.

(f) Fair Reimbursement to Dealers.—

(1) In general.—A manufacturer 1 shall pay fair reimbursement to a dealer providing a remedy without charge under this section if—

(A) at the time of providing service for each of the manufacturer's motor vehicles it services, the dealer notifies the owner or the individual requesting the service of any open recall; and

(B) the notification requirement under subparagraph (A) is specified in a franchise, operating, or other agreement between the dealer and the manufacturer.

(2) Definition of open recall.—In this subsection, the term "open recall" means a recall for which a notification by a manufacturer has been provided under section 30119 and that has not been remedied under this section.

(g) Nonapplication.—(1) The requirement that a remedy be provided without charge does not apply if the motor vehicle or replacement equipment was bought by the first purchaser more than 15 calendar years, or the tire, including an original equipment tire, was bought by the first purchaser more than 5 calendar years, before notice is given under section 30118(c) of this title or an order is issued under section 30118(b) of this title, whichever is earlier.

(2) This section does not apply during any period in which enforcement of an order under section 30118(b) of this title is restrained or the order is set aside in a civil action to which section 30121(d) of this title applies.

(h) Exemptions.—On application of a manufacturer, the Secretary shall exempt the manufacturer from this section if the Secretary decides a defect or noncompliance is inconsequential to motor vehicle safety. The Secretary may take action under this subsection only after notice in the Federal Register and an opportunity for any interested person to present information, views, and arguments.

(i) Limitation on Sale or Lease of New Vehicles or Equipment, or Rental.—

(1) In general.—If notification is required by an order under section 30118(b) of this title or is required under section 30118(c) of this title and the manufacturer has provided to a dealer (including retailers of motor vehicle equipment) notification about a new motor vehicle or new item of replacement equipment in the dealer's possession at the time of notification or the manufacturer has provided to a rental company notification about a covered rental vehicle in the company's possession at the time of notification that contains a defect related to motor vehicle safety or does not comply with an applicable motor vehicle safety standard prescribed under this chapter, the dealer or rental company may sell, lease, or rent the motor vehicle or item of replacement equipment only if—

(A) the defect or noncompliance is remedied as required by this section before delivery under the sale, lease, or rental agreement; or

(B) when the notification is required by an order under section 30118(b) of this title, enforcement of the order is restrained or the order is set aside in a civil action to which section 30121(d) of this title applies.

(2) Rule of construction.—Nothing in this subsection may be construed to prohibit a dealer or rental company from offering the vehicle or equipment for sale, lease, or rent.

(3) Specific rules for rental companies.—

(A) In general.—Except as otherwise provided under this paragraph, a rental company shall comply with the limitations on sale, lease, or rental set forth in subparagraph (C) and paragraph (1) as soon as practicable, but not later than 24 hours after the earliest receipt of the notice to owner under subsection (b) or (c) of section 30118 (including the vehicle identification number for the covered vehicle) by the rental company, whether by electronic means or first class mail.

(B) Special rule for large vehicle fleets.—Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), if a rental company receives a notice to owner covering more than 5,000 motor vehicles in its fleet, the rental company shall comply with the limitations on sale, lease, or rental set forth in subparagraph (C) and paragraph (1) as soon as practicable, but not later than 48 hours after the earliest receipt of the notice to owner under subsection (b) or (c) of section 30118 (including the vehicle identification number for the covered vehicle) by the rental company, whether by electronic means or first class mail.

(C) Special rule for when remedies not immediately available.—If a notification required under subsection (b) or (c) of section 30118 indicates that the remedy for the defect or noncompliance is not immediately available and specifies actions to temporarily alter the vehicle that eliminate the safety risk posed by the defect or noncompliance, the rental company, after causing the specified actions to be performed, may rent (but may not sell or lease) the motor vehicle. Once the remedy for the rental vehicle becomes available to the rental company, the rental company may not rent the vehicle until the vehicle has been remedied, as provided in subsection (a).

(D) Inapplicability to junk automobiles.—Notwithstanding paragraph (1), this subsection does not prohibit a rental company from selling a covered rental vehicle if such vehicle—

(i) meets the definition of a junk automobile under section 201 of the Anti-Car Theft Act of 1992 (49 U.S.C. 30501);

(ii) is retitled as a junk automobile pursuant to applicable State law; and

(iii) is reported to the National Motor Vehicle Information System, if required under section 204 of such Act (49 U.S.C. 30504).

(j) Prohibition on Sales of Replacement Equipment.—No person may sell or lease any motor vehicle equipment (including a tire), for installation on a motor vehicle, that is the subject of a decision under section 30118(b) or a notice required under section 30118(c) in a condition that it may be reasonably used for its original purpose unless—

(1) the defect or noncompliance is remedied as required by this section before delivery under the sale or lease; or

(2) notification of the defect or noncompliance is required under section 30118(b) but enforcement of the order is set aside in a civil action to which section 30121(d) applies.

(k) Recall Completion Rates.—

(1) In general.—The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall publish an annual list of recall completion rates for each recall campaign for which 8 quarterly reports have been submitted under subsection (f) of section 30118 as of the date of publication of the list.

(2) Requirements.—The annual list under paragraph (1) shall include—

(A) for each applicable campaign—

(i) the total number of vehicles subject to recall; and

(ii) the percentage of vehicles that have been remedied; and

(B) for each manufacturer submitting an applicable quarterly report under section 30118(f)—

(i) the total number of recalls issued by the manufacturer during the year covered by the list;

(ii) the estimated number of vehicles of the manufacturer subject to recall during the year covered by the list; and

(iii) the percentage of vehicles that have been remedied.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 952; Pub. L. 105–178, title VII, §7106(a), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 467; Pub. L. 106–414, §§4, 6–8, Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1803–1805; Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31311, July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 771; Pub. L. 114–94, div. B, title XXIV, §§24107, 24108, 24109(c), 24402, Dec. 4, 2015, 129 Stat. 1705, 1706, 1720; Pub. L. 117–58, div. B, title IV, §24202(b), Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 819.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

30120(a)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(a)(1) (1st sentence), (2)).
Sept. 9, 1966, Pub. L. 89–563, §108(a)(1)(D) (related to §§154(a), (b)(1), (2) (1st sentence), (c), 156, 157), 80 Stat. 722; restated Oct. 27, 1974, Pub. L. 93–492, §103(a)(1)(A), (3), 88 Stat. 1477, 1478.

  
15:1414(a)(1) (1st sentence), (2).
Sept. 9, 1966, Pub. L. 89–563, 80 Stat. 718, §§154(a), (b)(1), (2) (1st sentence), (c), 156 (related to remedy), 157 (related to remedy); added Oct. 27, 1974, Pub. L. 93–492, §102(a), 88 Stat. 1472, 1474, 1475.

30120(b)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(a)(5)).

  
15:1414(a)(5).

30120(c)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(b)(1), (2) (1st sentence)).

  
15:1414(b)(1), (2) (1st sentence).

30120(d)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(c)).

  
15:1414(c).

30120(e)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1416).

  
15:1416 (related to remedy).

30120(f)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(a)(3)).

  
15:1414(a)(3).

30120(g)(1)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(a)(4)).

  
15:1414(a)(4).

30120(g)(2)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(a)(1) (last sentence)).

  
15:1414(a)(1) (last sentence).

30120(h)
15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1417).

  
15:1417 (related to remedy).

30120(i)
15:1414(d).
Sept. 9, 1966, Pub. L. 89–563, 80 Stat. 718, §154(d); added Dec. 18, 1991, Pub. L. 102–240, §2504(b), 105 Stat. 2083.

In this section, the text of 15:1397(a)(1)(D) (related to 15:1414(a), (b)(1), (2) (1st sentence), and (c), and 1416) is omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(1), before clause (A), the words "Subject to subsections (f) and (g) of this section" are added for clarity. The words "with an applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standard . . . which relates to motor vehicle safety" and "pursuant to such notification" are omitted as surplus. The words "shall remedy" are substituted for "shall cause such defect or failure to comply in such motor vehicle or such item of replacement equipment to be remedied" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "the defect or noncompliance" are added for clarity. In clauses (A) and (B), the words "without charge" are omitted as unnecessary because of the words "without charge" in this subsection before this clause (A). In clause (A), the words "presented for remedy pursuant to such notification" and "of such motor vehicle in full" are omitted as surplus.

Subsection (a)(2) is substituted for 15:1414(a)(2)(A) (last sentence) for clarity.

In subsection (b)(1), before clause (A), the words "shall remedy a defective or noncomplying tire if" are substituted for "shall not be obligated to remedy such tire if such tire is not" to eliminate unnecessary words and for consistency. The words "pursuant to notification" are omitted as surplus. In clause (B), the words "decides to replace the tire" are substituted for "elects replacement" for clarity.

Subsection (b)(2) is substituted for 15:1414(a)(5)(B) to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (c)(1), the words before clause (A) are substituted for "Whenever a manufacturer has elected under subsection (a) of this section to cause the repair of a defect in a motor vehicle or item of replacement equipment or of a failure of such vehicle or item of replacement equipment to comply with a motor vehicle safety standard, and he has failed to cause such defect or failure to comply to be adequately repaired within a reasonable time, then (A) he shall" to eliminate unnecessary words. In clause (A), the word "replace" is substituted for "cause . . . to be replaced" for consistency. In clause (B), the word "refund" is substituted for "shall cause . . . to be refunded" for consistency. The words "in full" and "and if the manufacturer so elects)" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (c)(2), the word "presentation" is substituted for "tender" for clarity. The words "for repair" are omitted as surplus. The last sentence is substituted for 15:1414(b)(2) (1st sentence) because of the restatement.

In subsection (e), the words "(including a manufacturer)" are omitted as surplus. The word "information" is substituted for "data" for consistency in the revised title.

In subsection (f), the word "fair" is substituted for "fair and equitable" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "for such remedy" are omitted as surplus. The words "providing a" are substituted for "who effects" for consistency.

In subsection (g)(2), the words "In the case of notification required by an order" are omitted as unnecessary. The word "civil" is added because of rule 2 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 App. U.S.C.).

In subsection (h), the words "any requirement under", "or to remedy", and "as it relates" are omitted as surplus. The words "The Secretary may take action under this subsection only" are added because of the restatement.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Sections 201 and 204 of the Anti-Car Theft Act of 1992, referred to in subsec. (i)(3)(D)(i), (iii), are sections 201 and 204 of Pub. L. 102–519, from which sections 30501 and 30504 of this title, respectively, are derived.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 117–58 added subsec. (k).

2015—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 114–94, §24108(1), substituted "180 days" for "60 days" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 114–94, §24108(2), substituted "180-day" for "60-day" in two places.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 114–94, §24107(1), which directed amendment of subsec. (f) by inserting "(1) in general. A manufacturer", without specifying the location of such insertion, and indenting appropriately, was executed by striking "A manufacturer" and inserting "(1) In general.—A manufacturer" after the subsec. heading, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 114–94, §24107(2), substituted "section if—" for "section." and added subpars. (A) and (B).

Subsec. (f)(2). Pub. L. 114–94, §24107(3), added par. (2).

Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 114–94, §24402, substituted "15 calendar years" for "10 calendar years".

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 114–94, §24109(c)(1), inserted ", or Rental" after "Equipment" in heading.

Subsec. (i)(1). Pub. L. 114–94, §24109(c)(2)(D), which directed substitution of "the dealer or rental company may sell, lease, or rent" for "the dealer may sell or lease,", was executed by making the substitution for "the dealer may sell or lease" to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Pub. L. 114–94, §24109(c)(2)(A)–(C), inserted heading, inserted "or the manufacturer has provided to a rental company notification about a covered rental vehicle in the company's possession at the time of notification" after "time of notification" in introductory provisions, and realigned margins of subpars. (A) and (B).

Subsec. (i)(1)(A). Pub. L. 114–94, §24109(c)(2)(E), substituted "sale, lease, or rental agreement" for "sale or lease".

Subsec. (i)(2). Pub. L. 114–94, §24109(c)(3), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "This subsection does not prohibit a dealer from offering for sale or lease the vehicle or equipment."

Subsec. (i)(3). Pub. L. 114–94, §24109(c)(4), added par. (3).

2012—Subsec. (a)(1)(B). Pub. L. 112–141, §31311(1), amended subpar. (B) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (B) read as follows: "if replacement equipment, by repairing the equipment or replacing the equipment with identical or reasonably equivalent equipment."

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 112–141, §31311(2), inserted "of New Vehicles or Equipment" after "Lease" in heading.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 112–141, §31311(3), which directed substitution of "replacement" for "replaced" in heading, was executed by substituting "Replacement" for "Replaced", to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

2000—Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 106–414, §6(a), added par. (3).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 106–414, §7, inserted at end "In the case of a remedy program involving the replacement of tires, the manufacturer shall include a plan addressing how to prevent, to the extent reasonably within the control of the manufacturer, replaced tires from being resold for installation on a motor vehicle, and how to limit, to the extent reasonably within the control of the manufacturer, the disposal of replaced tires in landfills, particularly through shredding, crumbling, recycling, recovery, and other alternative beneficial non-vehicular uses. The manufacturer shall include information about the implementation of such plan with each quarterly report to the Secretary regarding the progress of any notification or remedy campaigns."

Pub. L. 106–414, §6(b), inserted at end "A manufacturer's remedy program shall include a plan for reimbursing an owner or purchaser who incurred the cost of the remedy within a reasonable time in advance of the manufacturer's notification under subsection (b) or (c) of section 30118. The Secretary may prescribe regulations establishing what constitutes a reasonable time for purposes of the preceding sentence and other reasonable conditions for the reimbursement plan."

Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 106–414, §4, substituted "10 calendar years" for "8 calendar years" and "5 calendar years" for "3 calendar years".

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 106–414, §8, added subsec. (j).

1998—Subsec. (i)(1). Pub. L. 105–178 inserted "(including retailers of motor vehicle equipment)" after "provided to a dealer" in introductory provisions.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2015 Amendment

Amendment by section 24109(c) of Pub. L. 114–94 effective on the date that is 180 days after Dec. 4, 2015, see section 24109(k) of Pub. L. 114–94, set out as a note under section 30102 of this title.

Effective Date of 2012 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–141 effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of Title 23, Highways.

1 See 2015 Amendment note below.
49 U.S.C. § 24308 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 243 / Section 24308: Use of facilities and providing services to Amtrak
Use of facilities and providing services to Amtrak
Status: in_force

(a) General Authority.—(1) Amtrak may make an agreement with a rail carrier or regional transportation authority to use facilities of, and have services provided by, the carrier or authority under terms on which the parties agree. The terms shall include a penalty for untimely performance.

(2)(A) If the parties cannot agree and if the Surface Transportation Board finds it necessary to carry out this part, the Board shall—

(i) order that the facilities be made available and the services provided to Amtrak; and

(ii) prescribe reasonable terms and compensation for using the facilities and providing the services.

(B) When prescribing reasonable compensation under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, the Board shall consider quality of service as a major factor when determining whether, and the extent to which, the amount of compensation shall be greater than the incremental costs of using the facilities and providing the services.

(C) The Board shall decide the dispute not later than 90 days after Amtrak submits the dispute to the Board.

(3) Amtrak's right to use the facilities or have the services provided is conditioned on payment of the compensation. If the compensation is not paid promptly, the rail carrier or authority entitled to it may bring an action against Amtrak to recover the amount owed.

(4) Amtrak shall seek immediate and appropriate legal remedies to enforce its contract rights when track maintenance on a route over which Amtrak operates falls below the contractual standard.

(b) Operating During Emergencies.—To facilitate operation by Amtrak during an emergency, the Board, on application by Amtrak, shall require a rail carrier to provide facilities immediately during the emergency. The Board then shall promptly prescribe reasonable terms, including indemnification of the carrier by Amtrak against personal injury risk to which the carrier may be exposed. The rail carrier shall provide the facilities for the duration of the emergency.

(c) Preference Over Freight Transportation.—Except in an emergency, intercity and commuter rail passenger transportation provided by or for Amtrak has preference over freight transportation in using a rail line, junction, or crossing unless the Board orders otherwise under this subsection. A rail carrier affected by this subsection may apply to the Board for relief. If the Board, after an opportunity for a hearing under section 553 of title 5, decides that preference for intercity and commuter rail passenger transportation materially will lessen the quality of freight transportation provided to shippers, the Board shall establish the rights of the carrier and Amtrak on reasonable terms.

(d) Accelerated Speeds.—If a rail carrier refuses to allow accelerated speeds on trains operated by or for Amtrak, Amtrak may apply to the Board for an order requiring the carrier to allow the accelerated speeds. The Board shall decide whether accelerated speeds are unsafe or impracticable and which improvements would be required to make accelerated speeds safe and practicable. After an opportunity for a hearing, the Board shall establish the maximum allowable speeds of Amtrak trains on terms the Board decides are reasonable.

(e) Additional Trains.—(1) When a rail carrier does not agree to provide, or allow Amtrak to provide, for the operation of additional trains over a rail line of the carrier, Amtrak may apply to the Board for an order requiring the carrier to provide or allow for the operation of the requested trains. After a hearing on the record, the Board may order the carrier, within 60 days, to provide or allow for the operation of the requested trains on a schedule based on legally permissible operating times. However, if the Board decides not to hold a hearing, the Board, not later than 30 days after receiving the application, shall publish in the Federal Register the reasons for the decision not to hold the hearing.

(2) The Board shall consider—

(A) when conducting a hearing, whether an order would impair unreasonably freight transportation of the rail carrier, with the carrier having the burden of demonstrating that the additional trains will impair the freight transportation; and

(B) when establishing scheduled running times, the statutory goal of Amtrak to implement schedules that attain a system-wide average speed of at least 60 miles an hour that can be adhered to with a high degree of reliability and passenger comfort.

(3) Unless the parties have an agreement that establishes the compensation Amtrak will pay the carrier for additional trains provided under an order under this subsection, the Board shall decide the dispute under subsection (a) of this section.

(f) Passenger Train Performance and Other Standards.—

(1) Investigation of substandard performance.—If the on-time performance of any intercity passenger train averages less than 80 percent for any 2 consecutive calendar quarters, or the service quality of intercity passenger train operations for which minimum standards are established under section 207 of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 fails to meet those standards for 2 consecutive calendar quarters, the Surface Transportation Board (referred to in this section as the "Board") may initiate an investigation, or upon the filing of a complaint by Amtrak, an intercity passenger rail operator, a host freight railroad over which Amtrak operates, or an entity for which Amtrak operates intercity passenger rail service, the Board shall initiate such an investigation, to determine whether and to what extent delays or failure to achieve minimum standards are due to causes that could reasonably be addressed by a rail carrier over whose tracks the intercity passenger train operates or reasonably addressed by Amtrak or other intercity passenger rail operators. As part of its investigation, the Board has authority to review the accuracy of the train performance data and the extent to which scheduling and congestion contribute to delays. In making its determination or carrying out such an investigation, the Board shall obtain information from all parties involved and identify reasonable measures and make recommendations to improve the service, quality, and on-time performance of the train.

(2) Problems caused by host rail carrier.—If the Board determines that delays or failures to achieve minimum standards investigated under paragraph (1) are attributable to a rail carrier's failure to provide preference to Amtrak over freight transportation as required under subsection (c), the Board may award damages against the host rail carrier, including prescribing such other relief to Amtrak as it determines to be reasonable and appropriate pursuant to paragraph (3) of this subsection.

(3) Damages and relief.—In awarding damages and prescribing other relief under this subsection the Board shall consider such factors as—

(A) the extent to which Amtrak suffers financial loss as a result of host rail carrier delays or failure to achieve minimum standards; and

(B) what reasonable measures would adequately deter future actions which may reasonably be expected to be likely to result in delays to Amtrak on the route involved.

(4) Use of damages.—The Board shall, as it deems appropriate, order the host rail carrier to remit the damages awarded under this subsection to Amtrak or to an entity for which Amtrak operates intercity passenger rail service. Such damages shall be used for capital or operating expenditures on the routes over which delays or failures to achieve minimum standards were the result of a rail carrier's failure to provide preference to Amtrak over freight transportation as determined in accordance with paragraph (2).

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 911; 110–432, div. B, title II, §213(a), (d), Oct. 16, 2008, 122 Stat. 4925, 4926.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

24308(a)(1)– (3)
45:562(a)(1).
Oct. 30, 1970, Pub. L. 91–518, §402(a)(1), 84 Stat. 1335; June 22, 1972, Pub. L. 92–316, §5(1), 86 Stat. 229; Nov. 3, 1973, Pub. L. 93–146, §10(1), 87 Stat. 552; Oct. 5, 1978, Pub. L. 95–421, §15, 92 Stat. 929; Aug. 13, 1981, Pub. L. 97–35, §1181, 95 Stat. 693; Apr. 7, 1986, Pub. L. 99–272, §4017(b)(1), 100 Stat. 110.

24308(a)(4)
45:562 (note).
July 11, 1987, Pub. L. 100–71 (last proviso under heading "Grants to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation"), 101 Stat. 447.

24308(b)
45:562(c).
Oct. 30, 1970, Pub. L. 91–518, 84 Stat. 1327, §402(c); added June 22, 1972, Pub. L. 92–316, §5(2), 86 Stat. 229.

24308(c)
45:562(e).
Oct. 30, 1970, Pub. L. 91–518, 84 Stat. 1327, §402(e); added Nov. 3, 1973, Pub. L. 93–146, §10(2), 87 Stat. 552; Aug. 13, 1981, Pub. L. 97–35, §1188(c), 95 Stat. 699.

24308(d)
45:562(f).
Oct. 30, 1970, Pub. L. 91–518, 84 Stat. 1327, §402(f); added Nov. 3, 1973, Pub. L. 93–146, §10(2), 87 Stat. 552.

24308(e)
45:562(g).
Oct. 30, 1970, Pub. L. 91–518, 84 Stat. 1327, §402(g); added May 30, 1980, Pub. L. 96–254, §216, 94 Stat. 418; Apr. 7, 1986, Pub. L. 99–272, §4006(2), 100 Stat. 107.

In subsection (a)(1), the word "authority" is substituted for "agencies" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code. The words "tracks and other" are omitted as surplus. The words "of . . . by, the carrier or authority" are added for clarity. The words "and conditions" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(2)(A), before clause (i), the words "the purposes of" are omitted as surplus. In clause (ii), the words "just and" are omitted as surplus.

Subsection (a)(2)(B) is substituted for 45:562(a)(1) (3d sentence) to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (a)(2)(C), the words "shall decide the dispute" are added, and the words "submits the dispute" are substituted for "application", for clarity.

In subsection (a)(3), the words "Amtrak's right to use the facilities or have the services provided is conditioned on payment of the compensation" are substituted for "and the rights of the Corporation to such services or to the use of tracks or facilities of the railroad or agency under such order . . . shall be conditioned upon payment by the Corporation of the compensation fixed by the Commission" to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "or under an order issued under subsection (b) of this section" are omitted as obsolete because 45:562(b) is executed. The words "amount of", "fixed", "duly and", and "properly" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (a)(4), the words "notwithstanding any other provision of law", "hereafter", and "becomes inadequate or otherwise" are omitted as surplus.

In subsections (b)–(d), the words "just and" are omitted as surplus.

In subsection (b), the words "as may be deemed by it to be necessary", "tracks and other", and "proceed to" are omitted as surplus. The words "personal injury" are substituted for "casualty" for consistency.

In subsections (c) and (d), the words "an opportunity for a" are added for clarity and consistency.

In subsection (c), the word "given" is omitted as surplus. The words "rail line" are substituted for "line of track" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the Code. The word "appropriate" is omitted as surplus. The words "the carrier" are substituted for "trains" for clarity and consistency. The words "and Amtrak" are added for clarity.

In subsection (d), the words "upon request of the Corporation" and "otherwise" are omitted as surplus. The words "which improvements would be required" are substituted for "and with respect to the nature and extent of improvements to track, signal systems, and other facilities that would be required" to eliminate unnecessary words.

In subsection (e)(1), the words "satisfactory, voluntary" are omitted as surplus. The words "provide, or allow Amtrak to provide" are added, and the words "Amtrak may apply to the Secretary for an order requiring the carrier to provide or allow for the operation of the requested trains" are substituted for "Upon receipt of an application from the Corporation", for clarity.

In subsection (e)(2)(A), the words "involved" and "seeking to oppose the operation of an additional train" are omitted as surplus. The words "when conducting a hearing" are added for clarity.

In subsection (e)(2)(B), the word "proper" is omitted as surplus. The words "60 miles" are substituted for "55 miles" for consistency with 45:501a(8), restated in section 24101(c)(6) of the revised title. Section 1172(3) of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 (Public Law 91–35, 95 Stat. 688) raised the speed from 55 to 60 in 45:501a but did not make a corresponding change in 45:562(g).

In subsection (e)(3), the words "Unless the parties have an agreement that establishes the compensation Amtrak will pay the carrier for additional trains provided under an order under this subsection" are substituted for 45:562(g) (last sentence words before last comma) to eliminate unnecessary words. The words "the dispute" are added for clarity and consistency in this section.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 207 of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008, referred to in subsec. (f)(1), is section 207 of Pub. L. 110–432, which is set out in a note under section 24101 of this title.

Amendments

2008—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 110–432, §213(d)(2), substituted "Board" for "Commission" wherever appearing.

Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 110–432, §213(d)(1), substituted "Surface Transportation Board" for "Interstate Commerce Commission" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 110–432, §213(d)(2), substituted "Board" for "Commission" in two places.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 110–432, §213(d)(3), (4), substituted "Board" for "Secretary of Transportation" after "unless the" and for "Secretary" in three places.

Subsecs. (d), (e)(1), (2). Pub. L. 110–432, §213(d)(4), substituted "Board" for "Secretary" wherever appearing.

Subsec. (e)(3). Pub. L. 110–432, §213(d)(2), substituted "Board" for "Commission".

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 110–432, §213(a), added subsec. (f).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Fees

Pub. L. 110–432, div. B, title II, §213(b), Oct. 16, 2008, 122 Stat. 4926, provided that: "The Surface Transportation Board may establish and collect filing fees from any entity that files a complaint under section 24308(f)(1) of title 49, United States Code, or otherwise requests or requires the Board's services pursuant to this division [see Short Title of 2008 Amendment note set out under section 20101 of this title]. The Board shall establish such fees at levels that will fully or partially, as the Board determines to be appropriate, offset the costs of adjudicating complaints under that section and other requests or requirements for Board action under this division. The Board may waive any fee established under this subsection for any governmental entity as determined appropriate by the Board."

Special Passenger Trains

Pub. L. 110–432, div. B, title II, §216, Oct. 16, 2008, 122 Stat. 4930, provided that: "Amtrak is encouraged to increase the operation of special trains funded by, or in partnership with, private sector operators through competitive contracting to minimize the need for Federal subsidies. Amtrak shall utilize the provisions of section 24308 of title 49, United States Code, when necessary to obtain access to facilities, train and engine crews, or services of a rail carrier or regional transportation authority that are required to operate such trains."
49 U.S.C. § 41905 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 419 / Section 41905: Emergency mail transportation
Emergency mail transportation
Status: in_force

(a) Contract Authority.—In an emergency caused by a flood, fire, or other disaster, the United States Postal Service may make a contract without advertising to transport mail by aircraft to or from a locality affected by the emergency when the available facilities of persons authorized to transport mail to or from the locality are inadequate to meet the requirements of the Postal Service during the emergency. The contract may be only for periods necessary to maintain mail service because of the inadequacy of the facilities. Payment for transportation provided under the contract shall be made at prices provided in the contract.

(b) Transportation Not Air Transportation.—Transportation provided under a contract made under subsection (a) of this section is not air transportation within the meaning of this part.

(Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1155, §41906; renumbered §41905, Pub. L. 110–405, §2(b)(7)(B), Oct. 13, 2008, 122 Stat. 4289.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

41906(a)
49 App.:1375(h) (1st, 2d, last sentences).
Aug. 23, 1958, Pub. L. 85–726, §405(h), 72 Stat. 762.

41906(b)
49 App.:1375(h) (3d sentence).

In subsection (a), the word "disaster" is substituted for "calamitous visitation" for consistency in the revised title and with other titles of the United States Code. The words "any or all classes of" and "of compensation" are omitted as surplus. The words "from appropriations for the transportation of mail by the means normally used for transporting the mail transported under such contracts" are omitted as superseded by 39:chs. 20 and 24. The authority of the Postal Service under this section is in addition to the authority of the Postal Service under 39:5001.

In subsection (b), the words "Transportation provided" are substituted for "operation" for consistency in this chapter.

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 41905, Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1155, related to regulating air carrier transportation of foreign mail, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 110–405, §2(b)(7)(A), (c), Oct. 13, 2008, 122 Stat. 4289, 4290, effective Oct. 1, 2008.

Amendments

2008—Pub. L. 110–405 renumbered section 41906 of this title as this section.

Effective Date of 2008 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 110–405 effective Oct. 1, 2008, see section 2(c) of Pub. L. 110–405, set out as a note under section 101 of Title 39, Postal Service.
49 U.S.C. § 47124a (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 471 / Subchapter I / Section 47124a: Accessibility of certain flight data
Accessibility of certain flight data
Status: in_force

(a) Definitions.—In this section:

(1) Administration.—The term "Administration" means the Federal Aviation Administration.

(2) Administrator.—The term "Administrator" means the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.

(3) Applicable individual.—The term "applicable individual" means an individual who is the subject of an investigation initiated by the Administrator related to a covered flight record.

(4) Contract tower.—The term "contract tower" means an air traffic control tower providing air traffic control services pursuant to a contract with the Administration under section 47124.

(5) Covered flight record.—The term "covered flight record" means any air traffic data (as defined in section 2(b)(4)(B) of the Pilot's Bill of Rights (49 U.S.C. 44703 note)), created, maintained, or controlled by any program of the Administration, including any program of the Administration carried out by employees or contractors of the Administration, such as contract towers, flight service stations, and controller training programs.

(b) Provision of Covered Flight Record to Administration.—

(1) Requests.—Whenever the Administration receives a written request for a covered flight record from an applicable individual and the covered flight record is not in the possession of the Administration, the Administrator shall request the covered flight record from the contract tower or other contractor of the Administration in possession of the covered flight record.

(2) Provision of records.—Any covered flight record created, maintained, or controlled by a contract tower or another contractor of the Administration that maintains covered flight records shall be provided to the Administration if the Administration requests the record pursuant to paragraph (1).

(3) Notice of proposed certificate action.—If the Administrator has issued, or subsequently issues, a Notice of Proposed Certificate Action relying on evidence contained in the covered flight record and the individual who is the subject of an investigation has requested the record, the Administrator shall promptly produce the record and extend the time the individual has to respond to the Notice of Proposed Certificate Action until the covered flight record is provided.

(c) Implementation.—

(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Fairness for Pilots Act, the Administrator shall promulgate regulations or guidance to ensure compliance with this section.

(2) Compliance by contractors.—

(A) In general.—Compliance with this section by a contract tower or other contractor of the Administration that maintains covered flight records shall be included as a material term in any contract between the Administration and the contract tower or contractor entered into or renewed on or after the date of enactment of the Fairness for Pilots Act.

(B) Nonapplicability.—Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to any contract or agreement in effect on the date of enactment of the Fairness for Pilots Act unless the contract or agreement is renegotiated, renewed, or modified after that date.

(d) Protection of Certain Data.—The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration may withhold information that would otherwise be required to be made available under section 1 only if—

(1) the Administrator determines, based on information in the possession of the Administrator, that the Administrator may withhold the information in accordance with section 552a of title 5, United States Code; or

(2) the information is submitted pursuant to a voluntary safety reporting program covered by section 40123 of title 49, United States Code.

(Added Pub. L. 115–254, div. B, title III, §395(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3326.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 2 of the Pilot's Bill of Rights, referred to in subsec. (a)(5), is section 2 of Pub. L. 112–153, which is set out as a note under section 44703 of this title.

The date of enactment of the Fairness for Pilots Act, referred to in subsec. (c), is the date of enactment of subtitle C of title III of div. B of Pub. L. 115–254, which was approved Oct. 5, 2018.

1 So in original. Probably should be "this section".
49 U.S.C. § 32918 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 329 / Section 32918: Retrofit devices
Retrofit devices
Status: in_force

(a) Definition.—In this section, the term "retrofit device" means any component, equipment, or other device—

(1) that is designed to be installed in or on an automobile (as an addition to, as a replacement for, or through alteration or modification of, any original component, equipment, or other device); and

(2) that any manufacturer, dealer, or distributor of the device represents will provide higher fuel economy than would have resulted with the automobile as originally equipped,

as determined under regulations of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. The term also includes a fuel additive for use in an automobile.

(b) Examination of Fuel Economy Representations.—The Federal Trade Commission shall establish a program for systematically examining fuel economy representations made with respect to retrofit devices. Whenever the Commission has reason to believe that any representation may be inaccurate, the Commission shall request the Administrator to evaluate, in accordance with subsection (c) of this section, the retrofit device with respect to which the representation was made.

(c) Evaluation of Retrofit Devices.—(1) On application of any manufacturer of a retrofit device (or prototype of a retrofit device), on request of the Commission under subsection (b) of this section, or on the motion of the Administrator, the Administrator shall evaluate, in accordance with regulations prescribed under subsection (e) of this section, any retrofit device to determine whether the retrofit device increases fuel economy and to determine whether the representations, if any, made with respect to the retrofit device are accurate.

(2) If under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Administrator tests, or causes to be tested, any retrofit device on the application of a manufacturer of the device, the manufacturer shall supply, at the manufacturer's expense, one or more samples of the device to the Administrator and shall be liable for the costs of testing incurred by the Administrator. The procedures for testing retrofit devices so supplied may include a requirement for preliminary testing by a qualified independent testing laboratory, at the expense of the manufacturer of the device.

(d) Results of Tests and Publication in Federal Register.—(1) The Administrator shall publish in the Federal Register a summary of the results of all tests conducted under this section, together with the Administrator's conclusions as to—

(A) the effect of any retrofit device on fuel economy;

(B) the effect of the device on emissions of air pollutants; and

(C) any other information the Administrator determines to be relevant in evaluating the device.

(2) The summary and conclusions shall also be submitted to the Secretary of Transportation and the Commission.

(e) Regulations Establishing Tests and Procedures for Evaluation of Retrofit Devices.—The Administrator shall prescribe regulations establishing—

(1) testing and other procedures for evaluating the extent to which retrofit devices affect fuel economy and emissions of air pollutants; and

(2) criteria for evaluating the accuracy of fuel economy representations made with respect to retrofit devices.

(Pub. L. 103–429, §6(43)(B), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4382.)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised 
Section
Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)

32918
15:2011.
Oct. 20, 1972, Pub. L. 92–513, §511, as added Dec. 22, 1975, Pub. L. 94–163, §301, 89 Stat. 915, and amended July 5, 1994, Pub. L. 103–272, §4(c), 108 Stat. 1361.

This restates 15:2011 to include 15:2011 in the scope of the codification enacted by section 1 of the Act of July 5, 1994 (Public Law 103–272, 108 Stat. 745).

In subsection (a), the words "Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency" are substituted for "Administrator" for clarity and to conform to the style of the codification which is to state the complete title the first time a descriptive title is used, and thereafter, to use a shorter title unless the context requires the complete title to be used.

In subsections (c) and (e), the word "regulations" is substituted for "rules" and "by rule" for consistency with the restatement of title 49.

In subsection (e)(1), the words "The Administrator shall prescribe regulations establishing" are substituted for "Within 180 days after December 22, 1975, the Administrator shall, by rule, establish" to eliminate executed words.

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 32918 was renumbered section 32919 of this title.
49 U.S.C. § 24703 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 247 / Section 24703: Repealed. Pub. L. 105-134, title I, §§103-105(a), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2572, 2573
Repealed. Pub. L. 105-134, title I, §§103-105(a), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2572, 2573
Status: repealed

[§§24703 to 24705. Repealed. Pub. L. 105–134, title I, §§103–105(a), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2572, 2573]

Section 24703, Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 924, provided route and service criteria for modifying or discontinuing routes.

Section 24704, Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 925, related to application by States, regional or local authorities, or other persons requesting Amtrak to provide passenger rail service and criteria for decision.

Section 24705, Pub. L. 103–272, §1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 926; Pub. L. 104–88, title III, §308(i), Dec. 29, 1995, 109 Stat. 947, related to providing service on routes recommended to be discontinued, criteria for deferring Secretary's recommendation, and providing short haul demonstration routes.
49 U.S.C. § 30171 (2024) — Title 49: TRANSPORTATION / Chapter 301 / Subchapter IV / Section 30171: Protection of employees providing motor vehicle safety information
Protection of employees providing motor vehicle safety information
Status: in_force

(a) Discrimination Against Employees of Manufacturers, Part Suppliers, and Dealerships.—No motor vehicle manufacturer, part supplier, or dealership may discharge an employee or otherwise discriminate against an employee with respect to compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee (or any person acting pursuant to a request of the employee)—

(1) provided, caused to be provided, or is about to provide (with any knowledge of the employer) or cause to be provided to the employer or the Secretary of Transportation information relating to any motor vehicle defect, noncompliance, or any violation or alleged violation of any notification or reporting requirement of this chapter;

(2) has filed, caused to be filed, or is about to file (with any knowledge of the employer) or cause to be filed a proceeding relating to any violation or alleged violation of any motor vehicle defect, noncompliance, or any violation or alleged violation of any notification or reporting requirement of this chapter;

(3) testified or is about to testify in such a proceeding;

(4) assisted or participated or is about to assist or participate in such a proceeding; or

(5) objected to, or refused to participate in, any activity that the employee reasonably believed to be in violation of any provision of chapter 301 of this title, or any order, rule, regulation, standard, or ban under such provision.

(b) Complaint Procedure.—

(1) Filing and notification.—A person who believes that he or she has been discharged or otherwise discriminated against by any person in violation of subsection (a) may file (or have any person file on his or her behalf), not later than 180 days after the date on which such violation occurs, a complaint with the Secretary of Labor (hereinafter in this section referred to as the "Secretary") alleging such discharge or discrimination. Upon receipt of such a complaint, the Secretary shall notify, in writing, the person named in the complaint of the filing of the complaint, of the allegations contained in the complaint, of the substance of evidence supporting the complaint, and of the opportunities that will be afforded to such person under paragraph (2).

(2) Investigation; preliminary order.—

(A) In general.—Not later than 60 days after the date of receipt of a complaint filed under paragraph (1) and after affording the person named in the complaint an opportunity to submit to the Secretary a written response to the complaint and an opportunity to meet with a representative of the Secretary to present statements from witnesses, the Secretary shall conduct an investigation and determine whether there is reasonable cause to believe that the complaint has merit and notify, in writing, the complainant and the person alleged to have committed a violation of subsection (a) of the Secretary's findings. If the Secretary concludes that there is a reasonable cause to believe that a violation of subsection (a) has occurred, the Secretary shall accompany the Secretary's findings with a preliminary order providing the relief prescribed by paragraph (3)(B). Not later than 30 days after the date of notification of findings under this paragraph, either the person alleged to have committed the violation or the complainant may file objections to the findings or preliminary order, or both, and request a hearing on the record. The filing of such objections shall not operate to stay any reinstatement remedy contained in the preliminary order. Such hearings shall be conducted expeditiously. If a hearing is not requested in such 30-day period, the preliminary order shall be deemed a final order that is not subject to judicial review.

(B) Requirements.—

(i) Required showing by complainant.—The Secretary shall dismiss a complaint filed under this subsection and shall not conduct an investigation otherwise required under subparagraph (A) unless the complainant makes a prima facie showing that any behavior described in paragraphs (1) through (5) of subsection (a) was a contributing factor in the unfavorable personnel action alleged in the complaint.

(ii) Showing by employer.—Notwithstanding a finding by the Secretary that the complainant has made the showing required under clause (i), no investigation otherwise required under subparagraph (A) shall be conducted if the employer demonstrates, by clear and convincing evidence, that the employer would have taken the same unfavorable personnel action in the absence of that behavior.

(iii) Criteria for determination by secretary.—The Secretary may determine that a violation of subsection (a) has occurred only if the complainant demonstrates that any behavior described in paragraphs (1) through (5) of subsection (a) was a contributing factor in the unfavorable personnel action alleged in the complaint.

(iv) Prohibition.—Relief may not be ordered under subparagraph (A) if the employer demonstrates, by clear and convincing evidence, that the employer would have taken the same unfavorable personnel action in the absence of that behavior.

(3) Final order.—

(A) Deadline for issuance; settlement agreements.—Not later than 120 days after the date of conclusion of a hearing under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall issue a final order providing the relief prescribed by this paragraph or denying the complaint. At any time before issuance of a final order, a proceeding under this subsection may be terminated on the basis of a settlement agreement entered into by the Secretary, the complainant, and the person alleged to have committed the violation.

(B) Remedy.—If, in response to a complaint filed under paragraph (1), the Secretary determines that a violation of subsection (a) has occurred, the Secretary shall order the person who committed such violation—

(i) to take affirmative action to abate the violation;

(ii) to reinstate the complainant to his or her former position together with the compensation (including back pay) and restore the terms, conditions, and privileges associated with his or her employment; and

(iii) to provide compensatory damages to the complainant.

(C) Attorneys' fees.—If such an order is issued under this paragraph, the Secretary, at the request of the complainant, shall assess against the person against whom the order is issued a sum equal to the aggregate amount of all costs and expenses (including attorneys' and expert witness fees) reasonably incurred, as determined by the Secretary, by the complainant for, or in connection with, bringing the complaint upon which the order was issued.

(D) Frivolous complaints.—If the Secretary determines that a complaint under paragraph (1) is frivolous or has been brought in bad faith, the Secretary may award to the prevailing employer a reasonable attorney's fee not exceeding $1,000.

(E) De novo review.—With respect to a complaint under paragraph (1), if the Secretary has not issued a final decision within 210 days after the filing of the complaint and if the delay is not due to the bad faith of the employee, the employee may bring an original action at law or equity for de novo review in the appropriate district court of the United States, which shall have jurisdiction over such an action without regard to the amount in controversy, and which action shall, at the request of either party to the action, be tried by the court with a jury. The action shall be governed by the same legal burdens of proof specified in paragraph (2)(B) for review by the Secretary.

(4) Review.—

(A) Appeal to court of appeals.—Any person adversely affected or aggrieved by an order issued under paragraph (3) may obtain review of the order in the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit in which the violation, with respect to which the order was issued, allegedly occurred or the circuit in which the complainant resided on the date of such violation. The petition for review shall be filed not later than 60 days after the date of the issuance of the final order of the Secretary. Review shall conform to chapter 7 of title 5. The commencement of proceedings under this subparagraph shall not, unless ordered by the court, operate as a stay of the order.

(B) Limitation on collateral attack.—An order of the Secretary with respect to which review could have been obtained under subparagraph (A) shall not be subject to judicial review in any criminal or other civil proceeding.

(5) Enforcement of order by secretary.—Whenever any person fails to comply with an order issued under paragraph (3), the Secretary may file a civil action in the United States district court for the district in which the violation was found to occur to enforce such order. In actions brought under this paragraph, the district courts shall have jurisdiction to grant all appropriate relief, including injunctive relief and compensatory damages.

(6) Enforcement of order by parties.—

(A) Commencement of action.—A person on whose behalf an order was issued under paragraph (3) may commence a civil action against the person to whom such order was issued to require compliance with such order. The appropriate United States district court shall have jurisdiction, without regard to the amount in controversy or the citizenship of the parties, to enforce such order.

(B) Attorney fees.—The court, in issuing any final order under this paragraph, may award costs of litigation (including reasonable attorney and expert witness fees) to any party whenever the court determines such award is appropriate.

(c) Mandamus.—Any nondiscretionary duty imposed under this section shall be enforceable in a mandamus proceeding brought under section 1361 of title 28.

(d) Nonapplicability To Deliberate Violations.—Subsection (a) shall not apply with respect to an employee of a motor vehicle manufacturer, part supplier, or dealership who, acting without direction from such motor vehicle manufacturer, part supplier, or dealership (or such person's agent), deliberately causes a violation of any requirement relating to motor vehicle safety under this chapter.

(Added Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31307(a), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 765.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of Title 23, Highways.