S. 3257 · Passed Senate · Transportation and Public Works

John A. Hauser Mental Health in Aviation Act

What it does

Directs the FAA Administrator to revise regulations and issue guidance within 18 months to encourage aviation personnel to seek mental health treatment and disclose mental health conditions.
Appropriates up to 15 million dollars per fiscal year from 2026 through 2028 to recruit, train, and oversee aviation medical examiners, clear special issuance backlogs, and provide mental health training.
Requires the FAA Administrator to conduct reviews beginning 180 days after the first Mental Health task force report and annually for 2 years, then triennially, to update regulations and policies on mental health special issuance for pilots and air traffic controllers.
Mandates the FAA Administrator implement recommendations from the Mental Health & Aviation Medical Clearances Aviation Rulemaking Committee submitted April 1, 2024, within 2 years or provide written justification to Congress for non-implementation.
Directs the FAA Administrator to conduct a public information campaign for fiscal years 2026 through 2028 to destigmatize mental health treatment and improve trust between the FAA and aviation personnel.

Oct 1, 2026: Held at the desk.

Committee: Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation