S. 3700 · On the floor · Transportation and Public Works

FAA SMS Compliance Review Act of 2026

What it does

Directs the FAA Administrator to establish an independent expert review panel within 60 days to review FAA orders and policies related to safety management systems.
Requires the review panel to evaluate FAA SMS compliance, safety enhancements, and the four core SMS components: safety policy, safety risk management, safety assurance, and safety promotion.
Mandates the review panel to assess SMS integration across FAA lines of business, staff understanding and training, voluntary safety reporting programs, and alignment with ICAO Safety Management Manual standards.
Requires the review panel to submit findings and recommendations to the FAA Administrator and Congress within 180 days, with the Administrator publishing the report on the FAA website within 5 days of receipt.
Grants the review panel authority to access FAA premises and records, inspect de-identified information, and interview FAA employees necessary to complete its work.

Sep 14, 2026: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 562.

Committee: Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation