(BOSTON – 5/19/2021) On Monday, May 17th, the Legislature’s Aviation Caucus held its first meeting during the 192nd legislative session. Representatives, Senators and members of the airport industry virtually gathered to discuss legislation and initiatives impacting aviation in Massachusetts. During the meeting Representative Natalie M. Blais (D-Sunderland) and Senator John C. Velis (D-Westfield) were elected as co-chairs of the Caucus by their fellow colleagues.
“One of my goals as Chair of the Aviation Caucus is to ensure that my colleagues in the legislature are as informed as possible about the aviation industry and how it impacts our Commonwealth,” said Senator Velis. “Prior to representing Westfield and Barnes Regional Airport, I didn’t know much about aviation myself. But this sector has a huge impact on our communities and our economy, and it’s so important that we are recognizing that and working alongside them on the issues they face.”
The Massachusetts Legislative Aviation Caucus was the first pro-aviation legislative caucus established in the country. According to members, they work to promote and support airports, aviation, and the high tech jobs in the aviation field throughout the Commonwealth.
All Legislators are welcomed to join the caucus, especially those with an interest in aviation or who represent airports, aviation-related businesses and industries, and their employees. Many elected officials were present during Monday’s meeting, including Western Massachusetts State Representatives Dan Carey (D-Easthampton) and Kelly Pease (R-Westfield). They were joined by representatives of the Massachusetts Airport Management Association, airport officials from across the state, and other aviation industry members. Several pieces of legislation related to airports and aviation-related business were discussed during the meeting.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues to identify ways the Legislature can support this vital transportation sector in the Commonwealth,” said Representative Blais. “Looking longer term, I am excited about the future of aviation and the policies we will need to consider as a Commonwealth to ensure the safe integration of technology including but not limited to unmanned aircraft systems.”
Both Representative Blais and Senator Velis stated that they anticipate the Caucus to meet monthly. They hope to also begin site trips to airports and airfields across the state sometime this summer.
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