TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Senate has approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Vince Polistina aimed at addressing a nationwide shortage of qualified air traffic controllers by creating a student loan redemption program for individuals entering the field.
The bill would establish a program designed to reduce the financial burden on people pursuing careers as air traffic controllers, which supporters say could help strengthen aviation safety and improve the reliability of the nation’s airspace.
In addition to the loan redemption initiative, the legislation would create an aviation education grant program to support drone-training efforts, the development of aviation-related degree programs, participation in Federal Aviation Administration training programs and related research.
“Our nation is facing a serious shortage of qualified air traffic controllers that threatens safety, efficiency, and the reliability of our air space,” Polistina, a Republican who represents the 2nd Legislative District, said. “By establishing this program, we can help remove a major financial barrier for those who are willing to step up and serve. Investing in the next generation of air traffic controllers is a commonsense way to strengthen aviation safety and support a workforce that is absolutely essential to our economy.”
