Benton Times

Today, Chairman Steve Womack of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development convened his first public hearing of the 119th Congress. The session was held to oversee the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Appearing before Congress for the first time since the January mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport was NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. The hearing coincided with the first anniversary of the collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge.

During the hearing, Chairman Womack emphasized the importance of safety in the nation’s transportation network. "Safety is a top priority for this subcommittee in our work to fund the nation’s transportation network. It is our duty to ensure we provide appropriate levels of support to transportation programs that ensure the safety of our skies, roads, and railroads," Womack stated. He reinforced the subcommittee's commitment to supporting the operations of the NTSB, describing it as "a critical, independent safety watchdog."

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Cole also spoke, emphasizing the NTSB's role in maintaining transportation safety. "When you get on a plane, drive over a bridge, or board a train – you shouldn’t have to wonder if you’ll make it to your destination safely," Cole remarked. He expressed his intent to work on funding critical safety missions and infrastructure needs as the FY26 appropriations process begins.

Congressman Womack, who represents Arkansas’ Third Congressional District since 2011, is also a member of the House Appropriations Committee.