Green Bay Reporter

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Facility for Runway Operations and Safe Transportation (FROST) Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by Congressman Tony Wied. The legislation aims to improve airport safety in cold-weather states by allowing federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds to be used not only for acquiring deicing equipment but also for constructing storage facilities for that equipment.

“I am very pleased that my bipartisan FROST Act has passed the House,” said Congressman Wied. “Aircraft are uniquely sensitive to any amount of ice and snow that accumulates on the airframe, causing irregularities that add weight, interrupt airflow, and can come loose during flight, potentially damaging critical flight systems. To prevent this, airports are forced to invest in expensive deicing equipment and fluids to mitigate these disruptions and support safe flight operations. This common-sense legislation will save much-needed funds for airports around the United States and ensure the proper storage of this critical equipment."

In Wisconsin and other regions with harsh winters, reliable deicing operations are considered vital for keeping air travel running safely during colder months. Previously, AIP funding covered only the purchase of deicing tools but did not extend to building or upgrading storage facilities where such equipment is kept. The FROST Act clarifies eligibility so that airports can now use these federal resources for both purposes.

“This bill reflects a shared commitment to aviation safety and practical governance. It has support from both sides of the aisle and was passed by voice vote in the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the full House,” according to background information provided by Congressman Wied’s office.

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves voiced his backing: “The FROST Act is common-sense legislation that would allow storage facilities for aircraft deicing fluids and equipment to be acquired through Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds,” said T&I Chairman Sam Graves. “If you can use AIP funds to purchase the equipment, you should be able to use those same funding mechanisms to construct the necessary facilities to house the equipment. I want to thank Congressman Wied for his leadership on this issue."

Congressman Wied represents Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District after defeating Kristin Lyerly in 2024 with 57.3% of the vote.