On the recordMarch 12, 2015
later today, the Senate will vote on two nominees who are critical to ensuring the safety of our Nation's transportation network: Christopher Hart, to be Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, also known as the NTSB, and Bella Dinh-Zarr to be a member of the Board. Mr. Hart has a distinguished career in aviation safety and has served with distinction as acting chair in recent months. Dr. Dinh-Zarr has a distinguished career in auto safety and will bring an important perspective and background to the board. Right now, the NTSB only has three members, with one--Mr. Hart-- serving as Acting Chairman. Today's vote will add another member and ensure Mr. Hart is Chairman in an official capacity. It is imperative that we have a strong, long-term team at the helm. As a member of the Commerce Committee, I know there is much important work ahead for the agency. The NTSB is charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States as well as significant accidents in the other modes of transportation--railroad, highway, marine, and pipeline--and issuing safety recommendations to agencies and others in the transportation industry aimed at preventing future accidents. It is not a regulatory or oversight agency; rather, it has a unique task--investigating safety issues and accidents and then making recommendations on how we can save lives.…
