4 versions

CosmeticWhat changed in REFERRED IN SENATEcompared with ENGROSSED IN HOUSE (Sep 8, 2025)

Technical corrections only. The only change between v3 and v4 is the addition of "KEVIN F. MCCUMBER" to the Clerk's attestation at the end of the bill, reflecting a clerical update. There are no substantive policy changes in v4 compared to v3.

H.R. 3423119th CongressIntroduced May 15, 2025

Facility for Runway Operations and Safe Transportation Act

Passed HouseTransportation and Public WorksSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Wied, Tony [R-WI-8]
Committees: Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
Last action: Sep 9, 2025

Bottom line

The FROST Act removes aircraft deicing storage facilities from the federal definition of "airport development," potentially altering their eligibility for federal funding or regulatory treatment.

What it actually does

This bill, known as the FROST Act, amends Title 49 of the U.S. Code, specifically Section 47102(3)(B)(v), which defines "airport development." It strikes the phrase "and storage facilities for the equipment and fluids" from this section. This change means that facilities used for storing aircraft deicing equipment and fluids will no longer be included in the federal definition of "airport development," potentially impacting their eligibility for federal funding or regulatory treatment under airport development programs.

Proponents argue

Proponents might argue that this amendment clarifies the scope of federal airport development funding, ensuring that resources are focused on core infrastructure directly related to aircraft operations and safety, rather than ancillary storage facilities. They might contend that deicing storage facilities are better funded through other mechanisms or local airport budgets, promoting fiscal responsibility and more targeted federal investment.

Opponents contend

Opponents might argue that removing deicing storage facilities from the "airport development" definition could jeopardize critical infrastructure necessary for safe winter operations. They might contend that deicing is an integral part of runway operations and safety, and excluding its storage facilities from federal support could lead to underinvestment, potentially impacting flight safety and efficiency during adverse weather conditions, especially at smaller or regional airports.

The bill text is exceptionally brief and can be read in under a minute, making it highly accessible for immediate understanding.

Section 2. DEICING EQUIPMENT PROTECTION.

Exclusion of Deicing Storage Facilities from Airport Development Definition

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section amends federal law (Title 49, United States Code, Section 47102(3)(B)(v)) by removing specific language that included "storage facilities for the equipment and fluids" related to aircraft deicing within the definition of "airport development." This means that, under federal law, these particular storage facilities will no longer be considered part of what constitutes "airport development" for purposes such as federal funding eligibility.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupAirport operators and authoritiesImpactPotential change in eligibility for federal funding or regulatory oversight for deicing storage facilities.MechanismBy amending the definition of 'airport development' in Title 49, United States Code, the bill alters the scope of projects eligible for federal support or subject to specific federal regulations related to airport infrastructure.ScalePotentially affects all airports that utilize federal airport development funds for deicing infrastructure, particularly those planning new or upgraded deicing storage facilities.

GroupAirlines and passengersImpactIndirect impact on operational efficiency and safety during winter conditions if deicing infrastructure investment is affected.MechanismChanges in federal funding for deicing storage could influence airport investment decisions, potentially affecting the availability or quality of deicing services, which in turn impacts flight schedules and safety.ScaleCould have widespread but indirect effects on air travel during winter months, particularly in regions prone to ice and snow.

Supporters argue

Supporters argue that this change streamlines federal funding for airport development, ensuring that resources are directed towards core operational infrastructure. They might contend that deicing storage facilities, while important, are ancillary and can be funded through other airport revenue streams or local bonds, reducing the burden on federal airport development programs.

Critics contend

Critics might argue that deicing storage facilities are integral to safe and efficient airport operations, especially in colder climates. Removing them from the "airport development" definition could make it harder for airports, particularly smaller ones, to secure necessary funding for these facilities, potentially leading to operational bottlenecks or safety compromises during winter weather.

Tradeoffs

The bill creates a tension between focusing federal airport development funds on core airside infrastructure versus supporting all elements necessary for safe and efficient operations, including essential support facilities like deicing storage. It trades off broader federal support for deicing infrastructure against a more narrowly defined scope for "airport development."

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.