119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 9373
The Air Carrier Access Amendments Act of 2026 strengthens protections for airline passengers with disabilities by creating a private right of action, meaning disabled passengers can now sue airlines directly in federal court for discrimination violations. The bill allows passengers to seek compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorney's fees, within two years of a violation, without having to first exhaust administrative complaints with the Department of Transportation. It also mandates that the Secretary of Transportation assess civil penalties for specific violations including damage to wheelchairs or scooters, failure to provide proper boarding assistance, denial of boarding based on disability, and gross negligence toward disabled passengers. Additionally, the bill authorizes the Attorney General to bring civil lawsuits on behalf of affected passengers and requires referral to the Attorney General when airlines engage in patterns of discrimination or violations of significant public importance.