Columbus, Ohio – September 25, 2026 -- The U.S. Senate has passed two aeromedical reform bills -- S. 3257, the John A. Hauser Mental Health in Aviation Act, and S. 3258, the Aviation Medication Transparency Act -- prompting the NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots (NJASAP) to press the House of Representatives for swift companion action.
NJASAP represents more than 3,800 professional pilots flying for NetJets Aviation, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.A) subsidiary.
Senate bill targets pilot fear of losing medical certification over mental health treatment
S. 3257 directs the FAA to revise regulations that currently discourage pilots from seeking mental health treatment for fear of forfeiting their medical certificate. The bill requires the agency to shorten certification timelines and conduct an annual review of the special issuance process. NJASAP President Capt. Pedro Leroux said the legislation "modifies the FAA's aeromedical system" to remove that disincentive.
Second bill addresses ambiguity over which medications disqualify pilots from flying
S. 3258 aims to clarify which over-the-counter and prescription medications, including specific dosages and strengths, are compatible with FAA medical certification. Leroux said the current lack of specificity makes it "exceptionally difficult to stay clear of the line" between permitted and prohibited substances.
NJASAP calls modernization overdue, says reforms would not weaken safety standards
NJASAP Government Affairs Committee Chair Capt. Coley George said aeromedical processes have needed reform "for a very long time," adding that the union and its labor peers have pushed Congress and the FAA to modernize the approach to pilot mental health. George stated the intent is to expand and refine treatment and medication options based on evidence-based practices, on a reasonable timeline, without removing existing safeguards.
Union urges House to pass Aviation Medication Transparency Act and finish both bills
George called on the House to pass S. 3258 and for Congress to complete work on both measures so they can reach the President's desk for signature.