ICYMI: Upton Legislation on RPA Program Advances Through House

Press Release

The House of Representatives late Tuesday advanced bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph. The legislation, H.R. 5944, would update and modernize the leasing programs necessary to keep National Guard units and Air Force Remote Pilot Aircraft (RPA) operations on airfields where they are already operating. The legislation was co-sponsored by U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York.

"This important, bipartisan solution helps our National Guard and Air Force continue to evolve into the 21st Century and beyond as Remote Piloted Aircraft become one of the most reliable tools in our toolbox to fight terrorism abroad," said Upton. "We cannot risk disturbing these critical missions by moving or eliminating the capability of National Guard and Air Force personnel simply because of outdated laws. With our bipartisan fix, airfields will have certainty and missions will not be disrupted. This legislation will save taxpayer dollars as well as lives."

Under current law, there is no recognition of RPA missions by the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) leasing program that would allow National Guard and Air Force units to continue operating as they have in the past because of a requirement for aircraft to be on site at the airfield. Under the new bill, National Guard and Air Force units that include either remote control or direct take-off of RPAs would be able to continue operations at their home airfields at the same leasing rate as before. The legislative solution was jointly developed by Upton, the National Guard, Air Force, and FAA, and has been approved by the FAA Office of the Administrator for Airports.

"Congressman Fred Upton continues to go above and beyond by recognizing Battle Creek's defense community and its important role in creating and retaining jobs and investment," said Joe Sobieralski, interim president and chief executive officer of Battle Creek Unlimited, the area's economic development organization. "Congressman Upton's latest legislation, which allows communities to negotiate a fair rate that benefits both the military and the local community, underscores his understanding of the importance of jobs and military missions in Battle Creek and the region."

Remote Piloted Aircraft (RPA) provide key intelligence, reconnaissance, and close air combat support.

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