PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce.
Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in Senate · May 26, 1999
Amends Federal aviation law to subject to a civil penalty of up to $25,000 any individual who interferes with the duties or responsibilities of the flight crew or cabin crew of a civil aircraft, or who poses an imminent threat to the safety of the aircraft or other individuals on the aircraft. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, in addition or as an alternative, to prohibit for not more than one year the individual from flying as a passenger on a civil aircraft. Requires the Secretary to notify all air carriers of the prohibition, including its term. Subjects to a civil penalty of up to $25,000 any air carrier which provides air transportation to an individual who has been prohibited from flying on a civil aircraft.(Sec. 2) Establishes a whistleblower protection program for airline employees providing air safety information.Prohibits air carriers, contractors, and subcontractors from discharging or otherwise discriminating against an employee as to pay, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee: (1) is about to provide or has provided to the Federal Government information relating to any violation of a Federal Aviation Administration order, regulation, or standard, or any other Federal law relating to air carrier safety; or (2) is about to file or has filed a proceeding, or testified, or otherwise participated in a proceeding relating to such violations.Sets forth a Department of Labor complaint procedure for persons who believe they have been discharged or discriminated against in violation of this Act.Specifies civil penalties for violation of this Act.(Sec. 3) Establishes a program under which the Attorney General may deputize State and local law enforcement officers as Deputy U.S. Marshals for the limited purpose of enforcing Federal laws that regulate security on board aircraft, including laws relating to violent, abusive, or disruptive behavior by airline passengers. Provides for the training and law enforcement powers of such marshals.
People & committees
Sen. Reid, Harry [D-NV] · D–NV
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce.
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S6068-6069)
Introduced in Senate
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Sep 8, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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