1、Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS21413Updated June 10, 2003The National Transportation Safety Board:Background and Issues for Reauthorizationand Congressional OversightBartholomew EliasSpecialist in Aviation Safety,
2、 Security, and TechnologyResources, Science, and Industry DivisionSummaryThe National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is a small, independent agencycharged with the task of investigating transportation accidents; conducting transportationsafety studies; issuing safety recommendations; aiding vict
3、ims families in aviationdisasters; and promoting transportation safety. Funding authorization for NTSB expiredat the end of FY2002. In the 108th Congress, NTSB reauthorization bills (H.R. 1527/S.579) have been reported out of committee in both houses. The House passed H.R. 1527by voice vote on May 1
4、5, 2003. Issues for NTSB reauthorization include transfer offamily assistance responsibilities to law enforcement agencies when it is determined thata transportation disaster was the result of a criminal act; funding the NTSB Academy;clarifying NTSBs relief from federal contracting requirements for
